Tube inserts are used across various industries to effectively ‘finish’ items such as chairs and furniture by plugging the end of the tube. This gives a more defined and finished look as well as ensuring there are no sharp or jagged edges and preventing internal build ups of things such as dust and water ingress.
Tube Insert – Uses and applications
Tube inserts are utilised across various industries from offices and furniture supplies to appliances and consumer goods. Some of the frequent applications of tube inserts include;
- To close the ends of a tube or pipe in a functional, attractive manner
- For seating, furniture, desks, chair feet and table ends
- Provide internal protection for tubes, posts, pipes and poles
- Close off fence posts
- Light duty machinery feet
- Add functionality with screw in threaded products
- Protects flooring from equipment and furniture
- Sign posts
- Exhibition and display stands
What are the benefits of using tube inserts?
Tube inserts are an effective, fuss-free solution for many applications providing many great benefits for users such as;
- Provides a neat, tidy, finished appearance to products and items
- Fast and easy to install without the need for tools
- This low-price solution is cost effective and an affordable alternative to similar products
- Prevents dirt, dust, debris, and water ingress from reaching the internal space
- Adds grip to chair and furniture feet and protects floors from scratches or damage
Are there different types of tube inserts?
There are various types of tube inserts available that are suitable for use across a wide range of applications.
Shapes: Round, square, rectangular, and oval are the most commonly found shapes that tube inserts are available in. They also come in ‘angled’ shapes ideal for the feet of furniture such as chairs.
Material – Plastic, chrome, and steel are the most common types, but other materials are also available.
Color – The most requested colors are black, white, and grey. However special or custom colours can often be requested from tube insert suppliers if needed.
Size: There are dozens of different sizes available and the way they are measured will depend on the shape of the insert.
Threaded – A quick, affordable alternative to welding metal plates into the tube, threaded tube inserts are designed for quick installation and allow the end of a tube to be capped off whilst forming a thread at the bottom for adjustable feet.
How to correctly measure your tube inserts
To ensure a snug, secure fit and a professional finish, it is important to ascertain accurate measurements for your tube insert requirements.
Outside diameter (OD) = the distance between the 2 outer lips of the tube
Internal diameter (ID) = the distance between the 2 inner lips of the tube
Wall thickness (WT) = Using the outside and internal measurements, calculate the wall thickness range needed to achieve a tight fit.
To calculate this, use the sum (OD – ID ÷ 2 = WT)
With so many versatile options available, there’s a tube insert solution for every job!
