Upgrade Your 3D Prints: The Power of Threaded Insert

OzFDM Threaded Knurled Inserts

Every maker knows the excitement of finishing a 3D print that looks perfect, with smooth layers, clean edges, precise dimensions. However, once it’s time to assemble or attach parts, reality often hits. Screws strip out of the plastic, threads wear down, and suddenly that perfect print starts to feel fragile.

That’s where threaded inserts come in. These small pieces of precision-machined brass might not look exciting, but they can completely change how your prints perform. By adding metal threads directly into your designs, they turn ordinary prints into durable, professional-quality parts ready for real-world use.

What Are Threaded Inserts?

Threaded inserts are tiny brass fittings with a textured, or “knurled,” surface. They’re designed to be installed into a 3D-printed part using heat, typically with a soldering iron. As the insert heats up, it melts the surrounding plastic just enough to sink in securely. Once it cools, it’s locked in place, leaving a strong metal thread that won’t wear out.

It’s a simple process that takes seconds to do but adds years of life to your parts. Instead of relying on fragile printed threads, you now have a reusable fastening point that feels solid, tight, and precise every time.

Why They Make Such a Big Difference

Plastic alone can only handle so much stress. Over time, repeated tightening or vibration causes it to crack or lose grip. Brass inserts solve that problem by spreading the load evenly and preventing wear. They’re especially useful for enclosures, hinges, fixtures, or any component that needs to be opened and closed repeatedly.

The result is not only stronger performance but also a cleaner, more refined finish. Parts with threaded inserts look and feel professional, the kind of quality you expect from production-grade products rather than hobby prints.

Compatible With Every Major Filament

OzFDM’s Knurled Brass Threaded Heat Inserts are made to work seamlessly with popular 3D printing materials like PLA, PLA+, PETG, ABS, and Nylon. Their precise design and deep knurling allow them to grip firmly without damaging your print, while the smooth brass surface makes installation easy and consistent.

No matter what material you prefer to print with, you can count on a secure hold, reliable alignment, and repeatable results.

Small Upgrade, Big Impact

It’s easy to overlook small components in the excitement of a new print, but threaded inserts are one of those quiet upgrades that elevate your entire project. They’re a simple addition that adds strength, polish, and longevity that every maker wants from their work.

Whether you’re assembling prototypes, creating mechanical parts, or designing something entirely custom, threaded inserts help your prints move beyond the prototype stage into real-world functionality.

Why Choose OzFDM Threaded Inserts

At OzFDM, our Knurled Brass Threaded Heat Inserts are engineered for accuracy, strength, and performance. Each insert is crafted from high-quality brass and tested to ensure excellent thermal conductivity, reliable grip, and corrosion resistance.

Available in a full range of sizes from M2 through M8 (and 1/4”), they’re designed to fit a wide range of applications with consistent precision. Whether you’re reinforcing a small bracket or securing a large mechanical part, there’s an insert for every need.

The Finishing Touch

Threaded inserts might not steal the spotlight, but they make all the difference when it comes to creating prints that last. They give your projects that satisfying “click” of precision and the confidence that every screw will tighten perfectly, every time.

If you’re ready to turn your 3D prints into something stronger, smarter, and more professional, explore the OzFDM Threaded Insert range and discover how small upgrades can make a big impact.

Information in this article was compiled and adapted from trusted industry sources to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Sources:

• OzFDM (2025)
• Formlabs – 3D Printing Threads and Adding Threaded Inserts to 3D Printed Parts 
  https://formlabs.com/global/blog/adding-screw-threads-3d-printed-parts
• CNC Kitchen – Threaded Inserts for 3D Prints: Cheap vs Expensive
  https://www.cnckitchen.com/blog/threaded-inserts-for-3d-prints-cheap-vs-expensive
• EZ Lok – Why You Should Use Threaded Inserts for 3D Printing
  https://www.ezlok.com/why-you-should-use-threaded-inserts-for-3d-printing
• Reddit – r/3Dprinting Community – Strength of Threaded Insert vs Printed Thread vs Heat Tapping vs Screwing Into a Nut
• Strength of Threaded Insert vs Printed Thread vs Heat Tapping vs Screwing into a Nut https://www.reddit.com/r/3Dprinting/comments/1et78ts/strength_of_threaded_insert_vs_printed_thread_vs/