Heat Swaging vs Heat Staking: What’s the Difference?

In the world of thermoplastic assembly, precision and strength are paramount.  Among the various techniques used to join plastic components, heat staking and heat swaging stand out for their efficiency and reliability.  While these terms are often used interchangeably, it’s essential to understand that heat swaging is a specialized form of heat staking.  In the […]

Heat Staking Threaded Inserts

Heat staking threaded inserts on a Thermal Press machine

This video demonstrates a Thermal Press International C-Series machine performing precision heat staking of threaded inserts into thermoplastic components. Heat staking is a highly controlled thermal assembly process that allows metal inserts to be securely embedded into plastic parts, creating strong, repeatable threads without introducing stress or damage to the surrounding matierial. In this application, […]

Heat Staking Threaded Inserts 2

Heat staking threaded inserts on a Thermal Press machine

This video features a C-Series Thermal Press configured for the heat staking of threaded inserts, a common application used to create strong, reliable threads in plastic components. This process is widely used across industries where durable fastening solutions are required without compromising part integrity. The system is equipped with a power shuttle table that enables […]

Manufacturing Tips for Quality Plastic Assemblies

Quality plastic assemblies often rely on press fits to hold parts in perfect alignment. These bonded interference fits used in assembly connections provide consistent performance in a multitude of applications. The demand for press-fit assembly technology and heat sealing equipment shows that manufacturers are looking to near-shore manufacturing, to automate assembly processes, and to maintain […]

Heat Staking Process: How It Works, Design Tips & Applications

The heat staking process is widely used in manufacturing to join plastic components into strong, permanent assemblies. By applying controlled heat and pressure, thermoplastic posts are formed to mechanically lock parts together without the need for screws or adhesives. In this guide, we explain how heat staking works, key design considerations, and where it is […]

Why are Plastics Hard to Glue?

Plastics are widely used in modern product designs due to their versatility, low cost, and superior performance characteristics.  Compounds like acetals, polypropylenes, and polyethylenes offer flexibility and durability, making them popular with designers.  However, joining these parts together in plastic assemblies requires special consideration, as plastics can be challenging to glue. How to Bond Plastics […]

Heat Staking Equipment for Precision Plastic Assembly

Since its inception in 1976, Thermal Press International (TPI) has consistently set the benchmark in the industry for cutting-edge heat staking equipment and solutions.  Offering a comprehensive range of innovative products and accessories, TPI remains the go-to choice for businesses seeking precision, reliability, and versatility in their thermal assembly processes. Versatility Redefined: C-Series and H-Series […]