Compression Limiters

Compression Limiters are metal inserts that protect molded plastic components from the compressive load generated by tightening bolts or screws. Tubular Compression Limiters may be molded directly into an assembly or pressed in after molding.

Design Considerations of Compression Limiters

There are many styles of Compression Limiters made from a variety of materials, with or without protective coatings and finishes. Choosing the right Limiter for your application depends on these design issues:

  • Fastener Grade and Type Being Used
  • Installation Method (Insert Mold or Post Mold)
  • Environment of Intended Use
  • Estimated Annual Usage/Quantity Required
  • Shape Needed (Round, Obround, Oblong, Square, etc.)

Addressing these design issues prior to requesting a quote will ensure you are using the most cost effective Compression Limiter for your application.

Compression Limiters from Wisconsin Stamping & Manufacturing

Our engineered split seam design Compression Limiters are manufactured in the USA at our state-of-the-art facility conveniently located in southeastern, Wisconsin. Made from highly accurate rolled metals, the split-seam design often will result in significant cost savings compared to machined inserts or cut tubing.

Open/Gap Seam Compression Limiters

Sometimes called gap seam bushings, open seam Compression Limiters are manufactured with an “open” or “gap” seam that compresses upon insertion into a smaller diameter hole, much like a roll pin or spring pin. The “spring” action facilitates insertion into the hole while enhancing the retention force of the bushing. Open seam configurations are used primarily in applications where the Limiter is pressed into a hole after molding and readily adapts to automated insertion or vibratory feeding.

Closed/Butt Seam Overmold Compression Limiters

Sometimes called “Butt Seam” bushings, closed seam Compression Limiters are typically inserted into a mold or die cavity prior to plastic injection. The fully closed seam configuration prevents molten plastic from intruding into the ID of the limiter. Once the plastic has cooled, the Limiter is permanently molded into the assembly and will not separate from the component housing. Often, Limiters have coined impressions around the OD to create a void area for the molten plastic to grip the Limiter. This improves the retention strength of the Limiter within the molded part.

Unique Shapes

While most Compression Limiters are round, our proprietary modular manufacturing process accommodates a variety of net round shapes: Obround, Oblong, Square, and Oval. Our processes accommodate holes, slots, notches, or other cutouts that may be required for your application.

Wisconsin Stamping & Manufacturing has more than 60 years of experience fabricating Compression Limiters for the demanding applications in virtually every industry. Contact us or request quote for more information about Compression Limiters that may be used for your specific application.

  • Interior Diameter 1/16″ to 3-5/16″
    (1.5mm to 84mm)

  • Outer Diameter 5/64″ to 3-1/2″
    (2mm to 89mm)

  • Length 1/8″ to 9″

  • Wall Thickness .010″ to .156″

  • Steel
  • Stainless Steel
  • Aluminum
  • Copper
  • Nickel
  • Monel
  • Inconel
  • Hastelloy
  • Nickel Alloys
  • Duplex Alloys
  • Other High Performance Metals
  • Zinc: Clear/Yellow/Black
  • Vapor Degrease/Wash/Dry
  • RoHS Compliant Trivalent
  • Anodize/Alodine
  • Black Oxide/Phosphate
  • Clear Trivalent Conductive
  • Nickel (Bright & Matte)
  • Passivate
  • Other Commercially Available Finishes
  • Heat Treat/Harden
  • Anneal
  • Carburize
  • Polish/Burnish
  • I.D./O.D. Grinding
  • Tumble/Vibratory Deburring
Fastener Grade Typical Compression Limiter Material
ISO4.6 / ISO 5.8 / SAE Grade 2 SAE 1008 / 1010 Low Carbon
ISO 8.8 / SAE Grade 5 SAE 1050 / SAE 1074 Annealed
ISO 10.9 / SAE Grade 8 SAE 1074 / H.T. RC45 – 50
ISO 12.9 / ASTM A574 SAE 1095 / H.T. RC58 – 62
Stainless Steel 304 / 316 Annealed
Brass Alloy 260 1/4 Hard or 1/2 Hard
Aluminum 3003 H14 / 5052 H32

Other Materials / Alloys available upon request

Inch
Bolt Size ID OD Length Tolerance
#8 .195 .265 +/- .005
#10 .225 .312 +/- .005
1/4 .285 .375 +/- .005
5/16 .350 .475 +/- .005
3/8 .415 .568 +/- .005
Metric
Bolt Size ID OD Length Tolerance
M4 4.7 6.70 +/- .12
M5 5.9 8.05 +/- .12
M6 6.8 9.15 +/- .12
M8 8.9 12.05 +/- .12
M10 10.8 14.75 +/- .12

Other sizes/reduced tolerances available upon request

Contact us at 888-236-8838 or solutions@wisconsinstamping.com

Quality and consistency is our focus.