Stainless Steel Rivet Nuts
What are stainless steel rivet nuts? Stainless steel rivet nuts are internally threaded inserts set from one side to create a strong machine thread in sheet metal, tube, and panels where you cannot reach the back. Made from stainless, they resist rust in wet and outdoor use and give a durable, reusable thread in thin material.
Why choose stainless rivet nuts for thin metal
Rivet nuts add a machine thread to material too thin to tap, and they install blind from one side, which makes them ideal for tube, panels, and enclosures. Stainless matters here because these inserts often live in outdoor or wet assemblies where a plated rivet nut would rust and loosen its grip. Match the rivet nut grip range to your material thickness, use the correct drill size, and choose a knurled or hex body for the best anti-rotation. Step up to 316 for coastal exposure.
Why choose stainless steel rivet nuts
- Blind installation: sets from one side where you cannot reach the back.
- Strong reusable thread: adds a machine thread to thin material.
- Corrosion resistance: holds up in wet and outdoor use.
- Anti-rotation options: knurled and hex bodies resist spinning.
Common applications for stainless rivet nuts
- Sheet metal, tube, and enclosures
- Panels and brackets needing a machine thread
- Automotive, trailer, and equipment builds
- Marine and outdoor assemblies (use 316)
Set them with a stainless-rated rivet nut tool, and browse the full rivet nut range by body and head style on the main rivet nuts category.
Stainless Steel Rivet Nuts FAQ
How do I install a stainless rivet nut?
Drill the correct diameter hole, thread the rivet nut onto a setting tool, and pull it so the body collapses and grips the back of the material.
Which body style resists spinning best?
Knurled and hex bodies resist rotation better than smooth round bodies, which matters under higher torque in thin material.
Should I use 18-8 or 316 rivet nuts?
18-8 suits most use. For coastal, saltwater, or marine exposure, choose 316 for the best corrosion resistance.