In Chapter 5 Lesson 12, you’ll learn how to use insert, or “press-in,” hardware as a strong and reliable alternative to threading thin sheet metal parts. Jake explains how PEM hardware, such as nuts, studs, and standoffs, creates a mechanical bond that adds threads, spacing, or mounting points without weakening your part.

You’ll also learn about proper hardware types, materials, and installation directions, as well as how spacing, bends, and nearby features can affect manufacturability. The lesson walks through designing and placing holes in CAD, understanding max and min part sizes, and how SendCutSend installs hardware safely during production.

What You’ll Learn:

• What insert (PEM) hardware is and when to use it
• The differences between studs, nuts, and standoffs
• How material choice affects hardware compatibility
• Proper pull directions and spacing for reliable installation
• How to design holes and avoid feature interference
• How SendCutSend installs hardware and handles finishing
• When to choose hardware inserts instead of tapping

Additional resources:

Hardware Guidelines
A Guide to PEM Hardware Inserts