We have all done it, overtightened a bolt and blown out the threads. When a bolt starts to tighten up and then go suddenly loose, you know that the threads are toast and now you have a problem.

When people are designing lightweight products, or repairing a worn-out thread, a dependable fastening tool can make a big difference. This is where self tapping threaded inserts can come into play.

Have you ever wondered whether it’s worth the time and expense to install threaded inserts into your 3D-printed projects? [Stefan] from CNC Kitchen did, and decided to answer the question once and for ...