[Nicad]

Just curious how you would make something out of 1/4" aluminum plate if you wanted it to have a threaded component on it? Would you weld on an aluminum nut? Or is there a special type filler rod that would let you attach a stainless nut, etc? Seems to me motorcycle swing arms and bicycles have threaded components attached to them, so are these just aluminum?
Thanks, Bob.

 

[Hammack_Welding]

There really isn't any feasible way to attach stainless steel to aluminum. I have made lots of brackets with threaded holes in them from T-6 aluminum. They hold quite well.

 

[Oldiron2]

There are threaded stainless inserts which can be inserted from the opposite side of plate material; they are used extensively for the chassis of electronic equipment.
Or, you could bore a larger hole and solder or weld an aluminum stud into it, then drill and tap the stud.
Lots of possibilities, depending on your specific application and how much work you want to put into it.

 

[Oldiron2]

Double post

 

[chaz3882]

Purchase Recoil inserts. They come with a tap that is specific to the size you are putting in. Thread your al and then insert them. They will hold in al like you are using tapped steel. Used to use them in our machines at work all the time when people would strip out the al plates.

Hope it helps you out.

Similar idea to what was just mentioned above. These actually insert from the face of your work surface.

 

[enlpck]

Most aluminum alloys take tapped threads well. Most every modern engine, motorcycle, car, etc. is held together with bolts threaded directly into aluminum. Tapping can be a little tougher than in some other metals, but isn't a major issue if proper lube for aluminum is used and care is taken to get the chips cleared.

If the material thickness isn't sufficient, or if there is another reason not to thread directly, there are a bunch of options.


Two easiest:
Use a thread type insert (such as a helicoil, threadsert, etc) to spread the load

Use a pressed insert of another material. Usually best to either press into a counterbore from the back side, or use an insert with a shoulder, so it won't pull through under load. Splining the insert keeps it from rotating.

More involved:
Braze a nut on

Weld a compromise piece in that can either be threaded or the nut you want can be welded to (Uses a material that is explosively bonded. NOT cheap. I have never had to price the material, but have seen great lengths gone to to avoid buying it.)


Other options as well, I'm sure.

 

[Nicad]

Great, thanks all for the replies.