Insert Nuts for Wood, MDF and Chipboard

Threaded Insert Nuts for Timber Applications  

Insert nuts create strong, reusable internal threads in timber and man-made boards. Commonly used in furniture manufacturing, cabinetry and shopfitting applications, they provide a secure fixing point for machine screws and bolts while preventing pull-out and joint failure.

Our range includes knock-in and screw-in insert nuts in various thread sizes to suit softwood, MDF, plywood and hardwood materials.

What Are Insert Nuts used for? 

Insert nuts are designed to:

• Create a durable metal thread inside wood-based materials
• Allow repeated assembly without damaging the board
• Improve load capacity compared to direct wood screws
• Increase resistance to vibration and pull-out

They are widely used in:

• Flat-pack and fitted furniture
• Shopfitting and display units
• Cabinet construction
• Bed frames and seating
• Worktops and structural joinery

Choosing the Right Insert Nut for your material 

Features at a glance

Type A Insert Nuts

• Description: Knock-in, flush-fitting inserts with barbs for timber and board materials
• Best for: Softwood, Chipboard
• Applications: Audio equipment, cabinets, chairs, desks, shop equipment

Type B Insert Nuts

• Description: Similar to Type A, but with a flange for surface holding
• Best for: Softwood, Chipboard
• Applications: Audio equipment, cabinets, chairs, desks, shop equipment

Type D Insert Nuts

• Description: Screw-in, flanged insert for high resistance to pull-out and vibration
• Best for: Hardwood, Plywood, MDF
• Applications: Audio equipment, cabinets, chairs, desks, shop equipment

Type E Insert Nuts

• Description: Self-tapping with no flange, suitable for curved and flat surfaces
• Best for: MDF, Plywood
• Applications: Audio equipment, cabinets, chairs, desks, shop equipment​

Type I Insert Nuts

• Description: Coarse external tooth pattern for maximum holding power, with one end capped
• Best for: Hardwood
• Applications: Audio equipment, cabinets, chairs, desks, tables, toys​

Type J Insert Nuts

• Description: Suited for higher load applications with a load-spreading base and screw holes for added strength
• Best for:  General timber
• Applications: Particularly suited to Castor assembly applications​

Type X Insert Nuts

• Description: Expanding insert nuts for high-strength fixing in various substrates
• Best for:  Softwood
• Features: Expands against hole sides when the screw is driven
• Applications: Ideal for a wide range of substrates

Knock-in Press In Type Insert Nuts

• Description: Designed for low insertion forces with no damage to material on application
• Best for: Softwood
• Applications: Suitable for applications requiring minimal insertion force

Type P Insert Nuts

• Description: Self-tapping with a serrated external thread for high pull-out resistance
• Best for: Softwood, composites
• Applications: Strong, permanent metal thread in wood and similar sheet materials

DESIGN AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

Advantages

• Secure Fastening: Provide strong and reliable threaded connections in materials that are too soft or brittle to support threads.
• Removability: Facilitate easy disassembly and reassembly, useful in applications where maintenance or upgrades are expected.
• Versatile: Suitable for softwood, MDF, plywood and hardwood.
• Load Distribution: Some designs distribute the load over a larger area, reducing stress on the base material.

Considerations

• Material Compatibility: The choice of insert nut should be compatible with the material of the workpiece to ensure a secure fit.
• Load Requirements: The load-bearing capacity of the insert nut should match the requirements of the application.
• Installation Precision: Correct installation is crucial for the effectiveness of the insert nut, especially in terms of depth and alignment. If the pilot hole is too small, the material may split. If it is too large, the insert may not grip correctly. 

Thread Sizes Available 

Insert nuts are available in common metric internal threads including:

• M4
• M5
• M6
• M8
• M10

The internal thread size must match your bolt or machine screw. The external design must match your board type.

 Committed to Industry Standards and Quality 

BFA COMMITMENT

BFA is dedicated to raising awareness of the key qualities that make British-made furniture stand out to consumers, retailers, contract specifiers, architects, and international audiences.

Membership is open to manufacturing companies across all sectors, with associate membership available for suppliers, retailers, and supporting businesses within the trade.

MEMBERS AND ITS BENEFITS

The membership of the BFA includes some of the oldest and most highly regarded furniture manufacturers in the UK. Members are from every part of the UK and from every area of manufacture including upholstery, cabinet and bed and mattresses.

British Manufacturers Association members are provided with advice and services on a range of topics including employment law, health and safety regulations, flammability law and timber regulations.