RIVET NUTS FAQs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do Rivet Nuts Work?
- Pre-drill a hole: A hole of the correct size is drilled into the workpiece, and burrs are removed to ensure a tight fit.
Insert the rivet nut: The rivet nut is placed into the drilled hole, with its flange or head flush against the surface of the workpiece.
Apply pull force: Using a rivet nut gun or manual tool, the internal mandrel of the rivet nut is pulled, causing it to deform.
Form a locking structure: As the pull force increases, the body of the rivet nut expands or folds, forming a flange or lantern shape on the backside, securing the workpiece.
Complete installation: Once installed, the rivet nut creates a standard threaded hole on the inside, which can be used for screw fixation to attach other components, providing a stable connection.
How to Install Rivet Nuts?
- Preparation: First, drill a hole of the appropriate size in the workpiece according to the specifications of the rivet nut. Ensure the hole is smooth and free from burrs, allowing the rivet nut to be inserted smoothly.
Select the Correct Rivet Nut and Tool: Choose the appropriate rivet nut based on the material type and load requirements. Select the appropriate installation tool, commonly used tools include manual rivet nut guns, electric rivet nut guns, or pneumatic rivet nut guns.
Install the Rivet Nut: Insert the rivet nut into the drilled hole, ensuring the head of the rivet nut is flush with the surface of the workpiece.
Apply Force: Use the rivet nut gun or manual tool to trigger and apply force. The internal mandrel will compress the rivet nut, causing it to expand or deform on the outside, fixing it in place on the workpiece.
Check the Installation Quality
Where to Buy Rivet Nuts?
Rivet nuts can be purchased through the following channels:
Online E-commerce Platforms: Large e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Alibaba, eBay, etc., offer a variety of rivet nuts in different sizes and materials, suitable for individual users and small batch purchases.
Hardware Stores: Local hardware stores and building material shops often stock rivet nuts, making them convenient for small projects that require quick purchases.
Specialized Fastener Suppliers: Many suppliers specializing in fasteners and mechanical parts offer rivet nuts, ideal for businesses needing large quantities or custom services.
Manufacturer Websites: For specific types of rivet nuts or custom specifications, you can directly contact the manufacturer for bulk purchases.
Industrial Supplier Platforms: Platforms dedicated to industrial supplies, such as Grainger, MSC Direct, etc., provide high-quality rivet nuts, suitable for heavy-duty industrial applications.
What Are the Rivet Nut Standards?
- Size Standards: Such as ISO 1587, DIN 7337, and ANSI B18.8.2, which define the size and shape of rivet nuts.
Material Standards: Common materials include carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum alloys, ensuring suitability for different loads and environments.
Thread Standards: Such as metric threads (M series) or imperial threads (UNC/UNF series).
Performance Standards: Including pull-out force and anti-rotation capabilities to ensure stable fastening performance.
These standards ensure the quality and applicability of rivet nuts.
What is Rivet Nut Tensile Strength?
Rivet nut tensile strength refers to the maximum load a rivet nut can withstand under tensile force, usually measured in kilograms (kg) or newtons (N). It reflects the fastening strength and resistance to tension when the rivet nut is connected to the material, determining its application range and stability. The tensile strength is influenced by the following factors:
Material Type: Different materials for rivet nuts (such as stainless steel, carbon steel, or aluminum alloy) have varying tensile strengths.
Rivet Nut Size: Larger rivet nuts generally have higher tensile strength.
Installation Quality: Factors such as the applied force during installation, hole size, and rivet depth can all affect tensile strength.
Rivet Nut vs Pop Rivet: Which One Is Best for You?
Rivet Nut:
Working Principle: A rivet nut is a fastener with internal threads that provides a strong threaded connection for thin materials.
Advantages:
Provides removable threaded connections, making it easy for maintenance and disassembly.
Suitable for thin materials, blind holes, and applications where fixing from the back is not possible.
High strength, suitable for applications that require bearing heavier loads.
Pop Rivet:
Working Principle: A pop rivet fastens two materials together by pulling the rivet’s tail, forming a permanent connection.
Advantages:
Simple installation, suitable for permanent connections where no threaded connection is needed.
Can fasten various materials, including metals and plastics.
Doesn’t require access to the back, making it ideal for blind-hole applications.
What Are Rivet Nuts Used for?
Threaded fastening for thin materials: Rivet nuts provide stable threaded connections in materials such as thin metal sheets, plastics, and composite materials, which are difficult to tap, making it easier to install bolts and screws.
Blind hole installation: Suitable for applications in closed profiles, tubes, and other materials where nuts cannot be fixed from the back side. Rivet nuts can be installed from one side, solving the issue of accessibility.
Repairs and modifications: Rivet nuts allow the addition of threaded connections without dismantling existing structures, commonly used in equipment repairs, upgrades, and modifications, offering flexible solutions.
Vibration and high-strength applications: Some rivet nuts (such as knurled and hexagonal types) provide enhanced anti-rotation and vibration resistance, making them ideal for high-load and high-vibration environments, such as in automotive and railway industries.
What is Rivet Nut Grip Range?
The grip range of a rivet nut refers to the thickness range of materials that the rivet nut can effectively clamp and secure. It indicates the range of materials that the rivet nut can tightly grip and hold during installation. Different types and specifications of rivet nuts have different grip ranges, which are usually specified in the product’s technical parameters.
For example, a particular model of rivet nut may have a grip range of 1mm to 5mm, meaning it can securely fasten materials with a thickness between 1mm and 5mm.
Choosing the correct grip range for a rivet nut is crucial. A range that is too small may result in the rivet nut failing to install properly, while a range that is too large could affect the strength and stability of the connection.
Plus Nut vs Rivet Nut: What Are the differences?
Design Structure:
Plus Nut (also known as self-locking rivet nuts) features a special design, often with a self-locking function that automatically locks after installation to prevent loosening.
Rivet Nut is a fastener that provides a threaded connection by being pressed into the material with a riveting tool, typically without a self-locking function.
Installation Method:
Plus Nut provides a higher locking force during installation, making it suitable for applications with higher load requirements and better resistance to vibration.
Rivet Nut is easier to install and is commonly used for light to medium load applications, widely used in thin materials and blind hole installations.
Application Range:
Plus Nut is commonly used in environments where vibration resistance and strength are crucial, such as in machinery, automotive, etc.
Rivet Nut is more commonly used for general light load or standard connection applications, such as in electronics, furniture, and construction structures.
Performance Characteristics:
Plus Nut has the advantage of higher anti-loosening ability and stronger clamping force, making it suitable for long-term use and high-load environments.
Rivet Nut‘s advantage lies in its simplicity and wide application for various connection needs.
What Is the Price of a Rivet Nut Gun?
The price of a rivet nut gun depends on several factors, including the brand, model, features, installation type (manual, electric, or pneumatic), and the rivet nut sizes it supports. Generally:
Manual rivet nut guns: These are the most affordable, typically priced between $20-$80 (approximately 140-550 RMB), suitable for small-scale use or DIY projects.
Electric rivet nut guns: These cost slightly more, generally ranging from $100-$500 (approximately 700-3500 RMB), ideal for medium to small-scale production.
Pneumatic rivet nut guns: These are the most expensive, typically priced between $200-$1000 (approximately 1400-7000 RMB), suited for large-scale production.
The price difference mainly depends on the tool’s quality, features, and brand.
What Drill Bit Size for Rivet Nuts?
When selecting rivet nuts, the drill bit size is crucial. The hole size should match the outer diameter of the rivet nut to ensure a secure installation and prevent material damage. Here are the recommended drill bit sizes for different rivet nuts:
M3 rivet nut: Drill size 4.2mm.
M4 rivet nut: Drill size 5.0mm.
M5 rivet nut: Drill size 5.8mm.
M6 rivet nut: Drill size 6.6mm.
M8 rivet nut: Drill size 8.4mm.
M10 rivet nut: Drill size 10.2mm.
When choosing a drill bit, ensure the hole size matches the outer diameter of the rivet nut to guarantee a secure fit and avoid loosening or uneven installation.
How to Choose the Right Rivet Nut Hole Size?
Choosing the right rivet nut hole size is crucial as it directly impacts the installation and durability of the rivet nut. Here are some key steps for selecting the correct hole size:
1. Refer to the rivet nut's outer diameter:
The outer diameter of the rivet nut determines the required hole size. The hole should be slightly larger than the rivet nut’s outer diameter to ensure smooth installation and a strong connection.
2. Select hole size based on the rivet nut specifications:
Each rivet nut size has a recommended hole size range. Manufacturers typically provide specific hole size suggestions to ensure optimal installation. For example, the recommended hole size for an M6 rivet nut is usually around 6.6mm.
3. Avoid overly large or small hole sizes:
If the hole size is too small, the rivet nut may not install properly or be difficult to secure. If the hole size is too large, the rivet nut may not tighten correctly or could easily loosen.
4. Consider material properties:
Different materials (such as metals or plastics) may require different hole treatments. For instance, softer materials may need smaller hole sizes to ensure better rivet nut fixation.
How to Choose the Right Rivet Nut Sizes?
1. Choose based on thread specifications:
When selecting a rivet nut, first consider the thread specifications (e.g., M6, M8, M10). Choose the corresponding rivet nut based on the required thread diameter and pitch. The thread specification determines the range of the rivet nut and ensures compatibility with the bolts used.
2. Select the appropriate outer diameter and length:
Outer diameter: The outer diameter of the rivet nut determines the required hole size. Select the appropriate drill size to ensure the rivet nut can be installed correctly.
Length: The length of the rivet nut determines how deep it will be fixed within the material. Longer rivet nuts are suitable for thicker materials, while shorter rivet nuts are suitable for thinner materials.
3. Consider load requirements:
If the connection will bear higher tensile or shear forces, select high-strength rivet nuts. Based on the load requirements of the application, choose the appropriate rivet nut type, such as hexagonal rivet nuts, which provide higher torque resistance.
4. Choose based on material type:
Different materials may require different rivet nut sizes. For example, softer materials may require larger rivet nuts for stronger gripping force, while harder materials may need smaller rivet nuts.
5. Refer to the manufacturer's recommendations:
Each rivet nut model has recommended sizes provided by the manufacturer. These suggestions help ensure that the rivet nut matches the hole size and application needs.
How to Find the Best Rivet Nut Tool?
When choosing the right rivet nut tool, consider the following points:
Tool Type: Manual tools are suitable for small batches, electric tools for medium production, and pneumatic tools for large-scale production.
Specification Matching: Ensure the tool matches the size and pull force requirements of the rivet nuts.
Durability and Quality: Choose durable and reliable tools to improve efficiency and reduce maintenance.
Ease of Use and Comfort: Select ergonomically designed tools to reduce fatigue.
Price and Budget: Choose tools with the best value for money according to your budget.
How to Use Rivet Nut Tool?
To use a rivet nut tool:
Choose the Correct Rivet Nut: Select the right size and material for your project.
Prepare the Hole: Drill a hole that matches the rivet nut size.
Insert the Rivet Nut: Place the rivet nut into the hole.
Align the Tool: Attach the rivet nut to the tool and align it with the hole.
Activate the Tool: Squeeze or pull the tool to set the rivet nut, ensuring it is securely fastened.
After installation, check the nut for stability and proper threading.
How to Remove Rivet Nut?
To remove a rivet nut, follow these steps:
Choose the right tool: Use a dedicated rivet nut removal tool or bolt extractor. If you don’t have a specialized tool, pliers or a wrench can also work.
Locate the rivet nut: Ensure there are no obstacles around the rivet nut and clear any debris.
Removal process:
Using a bolt extractor: Insert the extractor into the rivet nut and rotate counterclockwise until the rivet nut loosens.
Using pliers or a wrench: If the rivet nut is not tightly secured, you can grip the outer surface with pliers or a wrench and rotate counterclockwise to remove it.
Clean the hole: After removing the rivet nut, clean the hole and remove any remaining debris or burrs to ensure smooth installation for the next rivet nut.
