Heat Set Insert Press

The heat-set insert press can be found on the shelves to the left of the Resin Printer table.

Safety

Universal Safety

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially when handling large materials.
• Do not approach anyone operating equipment. Stand patiently in their field of view.

Use Case

The heat-set insert press can permanently embed brass threaded inserts into plastic 3D Prints. While threads can be printed and secured, they don't survive multiple assembly/disassembly steps very well. For a frequently adjusted part, metal threads are much more durable.

We don't currently require Skedda bookings to use the insert press.

Materials

Acceptable Materials

Brass heat-set inserts in a wide variety of sizes.

Material Limits

Smallest size tip available is M2. The largest is M8.

Consumables

Asmbly does not provide these, but you may find some donated stock on the shelf.

• Inserts. In small numbers these may be available on the shelf or in the electronics lab. In larger numbers you should bring them yourself, or buy to replenish the stock you use.

 * The highest quality (material adhesion and pull-out strength) inserts are from: https://cnckitchen.store/collections/threaded-inserts
 * For less reuse, basic assortments of inserts are available on Amazon for cheap.

Operation

You will probably want to move the press to a table that provides more space to work and has access to power. In addition, you will want these tools from the 3D printing tool caddy:

• Normally-closed tweezers
• Brass cleaning brush

You may also want:

• Calipers
• Exacto knife
• Small drill + bit to remove internal buildup
• Screws matching the insert

Prepare Inserts and Tip

Before heating the iron, you should prepare for your insert operation.

The soldering tip for the inserts screws on to the soldering iron. Using an insert of the correct size (double check with calipers!), make sure the smallest tip section can insert inside the threads, and the shoulder section contacts all around the rim. Screw the selected tip onto the iron, and screw the replaced tip down to the base for safekeeping.

Adjust the height of the insert press, using your part and an insert as guidance. While supporting the iron and arm, loosen the topmost thumbscrew to release the height adjustment. Tighten by hand when at the correct height, with the soldering tip about a centimeter above the hole in the part. You should NOT need tools for this operation.

Connect Cables

Plug in the iron to power.

Power On

Turn on the iron by pressing the red/middle power button for at least 2 seconds.

The iron will preheat by default to 310°F. This is hot enough to press M3 inserts into ABS/ASA (pictured). More or less temperature may be required for your filament and size choice.

Press Inserts

1. Using the tweezers, hold the insert up on the soldering tip for a few seconds to preheat.

2. Push the press arm downward, centering the insert on the hole, and release the tweezers once in a stable position. If needed, you can place the hot insert on top of the intended hole and the additional friction will keep it approximately in place while you handle the part as a whole to align it.

3. Adjust as needed to the center of the hole, and press down steadily on the arm. It should not need significant pressure, as the heat will melt the plastic out of the way and the insert will press in slowly.

4. Stop when at or just below the surface of the part, and allow the arm to raise back up in a controlled manner.

Cleanup

While hot, brush the soldering tip clean of any melted plastic residue.

Allow the iron to cool for a few minutes!

Please put the insert press back on the shelf when you're done and make sure all of the tips are there.

Universal Cleaning Guide

• Return the equipment to neutral.
• Sweep up any dust and debris around the tool, your table top, and the floor - both in the equipment area and your work area.
• Clear the floor of any tripping hazards, like power cords.
• Empty trash cans and dust collectors that are halfway full or more into the Asmbly dumpster behind the workshop.
• Leave the shop 110% better than you found it.

Troubleshooting

Common Problems

If you are unsure, it is always best to contact a steward and fill out a problem report