It was a helpful tip for new teams. They can cut it up in different shapes if they need such as the 1x5’s or L channels. They can be really helpful and have benefited us in many ways. That is why i gave this advice for him to buy it.
Once you see it, you can never unsee it.
first of all DO NOT BRAINROT THE FORUMS
secondly, yes while you can cut it into different shapes, you might as well use plastic to make the custom shapes.
What is that piece? It that the piece that goes on Shafts as an insert for wheels, gears, etc.?
Ah shoot - sorry, I thought this was the product link. See the " High Strength Shaft Adapter (#8 Round Bore, 1/2" Long)**"
High Strength Shafts & Hardware - VEX Robotics
These let you reduce friction when using both screws as shaft or on drive shafts.
Yes, it is an insert for wheels and gears. I forgot the exact name of them, but these inserts are commonly used to make screw joints. With screw joints, gears and wheels can freely spin on a screw, which results less friction than spinning with regular axles. Using screws as shafts are also more stable, as they have less wiggle room in a pitch.
276-8034 High Strength Shaft Adapter (#8 Round Bore, 1/2" Long)
This is an amazing part. Thank you so much. I will be using this for all my screw joints going forward. 
With the new plastic limits baseplates could be useful for custom pieces. 
Probably not because they are steel but still.
These are great for doing a screw joint drivetrain for less friction