Understanding the Benefits of KATO Tangless® Inserts
Understanding the Benefits of KATO Tangless® Inserts
When it comes to threaded inserts—especially in precision applications like aerospace, automotive, or electronics—choosing the right insert can make a big difference in performance, reliability, and ease of installation. One of the most innovative options available today is the KATO Tangless® Helical Coil Insert.
What Are Tangless Inserts?
Traditional helical coil inserts use a small metal “tang” to assist with installation. Once the insert is installed, this tang has to be broken off and removed—adding an extra step and potential complications, particularly in high-precision or clean environments.
Tangless inserts, as the name implies, eliminate this tang. Instead, they are designed to be installed and removed without any breakaway features, offering several practical advantages.
Key Benefits of KATO Tangless® Inserts
- FOD-Free (Foreign Object Debris-Free)
No tangs means no risk of loose metal pieces falling into sensitive equipment or assemblies—a major benefit in aerospace, medical, and cleanroom environments. - Bi-directional Design
Tangless inserts can be installed in either direction, which simplifies orientation and speeds up installation. - Easier Maintenance & Removal
If a Tangless insert needs to be replaced, it can be removed non-destructively using standard tooling. This can save time and prevent damage to the surrounding material. - Depth Adjustability
These inserts can be adjusted after installation to ensure they’re seated exactly where needed. - Cost Savings
According to KATO, users can save up to $0.50 per hole by eliminating the tang break-off process and potential rework. - Wide Range of Sizes
Available in SAE sizes from 0-80 to ½” and Metric sizes from M2 to M16, making them versatile across industries. - Approved for Aerospace & Military Use
KATO Tangless inserts meet strict standards such as NASM8846, NAS1130, and NA0276, making them suitable for demanding environments.
Are There Any Drawbacks?
While Tangless inserts offer many advantages, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
- Special Tooling
Installing and removing Tangless inserts typically requires dedicated KATO tools, which may involve an upfront investment if you’re switching from a traditional system. - Learning Curve
For teams used to working with traditional inserts, there may be a slight adjustment period when adopting Tangless inserts and tools. - Cost of Inserts
While they can save money per hole in many cases, the inserts themselves may be more expensive than tanged versions, depending on your supplier and order volume.
Where to Find KATO Tangless® Inserts
If you’re ready to explore Tangless inserts or simply want to compare options, you can browse KATO Tangless® inserts here.
Final Thoughts
KATO Tangless® inserts offer a thoughtful upgrade over traditional tanged inserts—especially in applications where FOD prevention, ease of maintenance, and long-term performance are critical. Whether you’re working in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing, these inserts can help streamline operations and reduce rework.
If you’re unsure whether Tangless inserts are right for your application, it’s worth comparing them side-by-side with traditional options and factoring in the long-term time and cost savings.