What Are Rivet Nuts?
Rivet nuts—also called blind threaded inserts—are metal sleeves with internal threads that install from one side of a workpiece. They add a strong, reusable machine thread in sheet metal, tubing, plastics, and composites without welding or tapping.
RIVNUT® vs. Rivet Nuts
RIVNUT® is a registered brand name for a family of blind threaded inserts. The term is often used generically; functionally, both RIVNUT® products and generic rivet nuts install and perform in the same way.
How Do Rivet Nuts Work?
- Drill a hole to the recommended size for the insert body.
- Place the insert in the hole and thread it onto a rivet-nut setting tool.
- Actuate the tool to pull the internal threads, collapsing the backside to clamp the material and lock the insert.
Key Advantages
- Installs from one side (“blind”); no rear access required.
- Creates strong, serviceable machine threads in thin or soft materials.
- Faster and more consistent than welding, press nuts, or loose hardware.
- Available in aluminum, steel, and stainless for the strength and corrosion resistance you need.
Common Applications
- Automotive panels, racks, cargo systems, and body accessories
- Aerospace interiors and lightweight panels
- Electronics and IT enclosures that need precise, reusable threads
- HVAC, appliances, fabrication, and general sheet-metal work
Choosing the Right Rivet Nut
1) Head Style
- Low-Profile / Small Flange – clean, compact look for tight clearances.
- Large Flange – spreads load on thin or soft materials to reduce pull-through.
- Countersunk (CSK) – sits nearly flush in a countersunk hole.
2) Body Style
- Round Smooth – general purpose; easy to set.
- Round Knurled – added bite/anti-spin in soft materials.
- Hex Body – maximum anti-rotation (requires hex hole).
- Open vs. Closed End – closed end protects the screw tip and helps seal.
3) Material
- Aluminum – light, corrosion-resistant, and easy to install.
- Steel (zinc-plated) – economical, higher strength.
- Stainless Steel – best corrosion resistance; needs higher setting force.
4) Grip Range (Critical!)
Grip range is the material thickness window an insert can properly clamp. Pick a rivet nut whose grip range covers your total stack thickness (sheet + paint/coating + gasket). The wrong range can lead to loose joints or panel distortion.
5) Tools
- Hand/Lever Tools – portable and economical for small runs and service work.
- Ratchet/Battery Tools – faster, consistent installs; quick mandrel changes.
- Spin-Pull Pneumatic/Hydraulic – controlled, repeatable setting for production.
Well Nuts (Rubber Rivet Nuts)
Well nuts combine an EPDM rubber sleeve with a brass threaded insert. Tightening the screw expands the rubber to clamp and seal. They’re excellent for fiberglass, thin sheet, irregular holes, and vibration isolation where a water-resistant fastener is desired.
Installation Tips
- Drill straight, burr-free holes and deburr both sides for best clamping.
- Confirm the insert’s grip range against the actual stack thickness.
- Use knurled or hex-body inserts to prevent spin in soft materials.
- Choose closed-end inserts to keep out liquids or protect the screw tip.
Rivet Nuts FAQ
What’s the difference between a rivet nut and a RIVNUT®?
Rivet nut is the generic term. RIVNUT® is a specific brand of blind threaded inserts; both are installed and used for the same purpose.
How do I size the hole for my rivet nut?
Follow the manufacturer’s drill recommendation for the insert body style. Hex-body inserts require a matching hex punch or laser-cut hole; round bodies use a round drill size.
What is “grip range,” and why does it matter?
It’s the minimum-to-maximum thickness the insert can clamp. If your panel stack is outside that window, the insert may set poorly or loosen over time.
When should I choose a large-flange head?
Use large flange on thin, soft, or brittle materials to spread load and reduce the chance of pull-through. Choose low-profile when space is tight or you need a cleaner look.
Are well nuts as strong as metal rivet nuts?
No. Well nuts are chosen for sealing and vibration isolation, not maximum tensile or shear strength. Use metal rivet nuts when structural performance is the priority.
Which tool should I buy?
For occasional installs, a quality hand/lever tool works well. For frequent use, a ratcheting or battery tool offers speed and consistency. In production, consider spin-pull pneumatic/hydraulic tools with stroke control.