Rivet Nuts AVK®

What Is a Rivet Nut?

A rivet nut, also commonly known as a nutsert or rivnut, is a versatile threaded fastener designed to provide a strong, secure internal thread in thin materials where conventional tapping or welding a nut may be impractical.

Combining the benefits of a rivet and a threaded nut, rivet nuts are installed from one side of the material, making them ideal for blind fastening applications where access to the rear of the workpiece is restricted.

Once installed, the rivet nut remains securely fixed in the parent material, providing a reusable internal thread for attaching bolts, screws and other components.

Installation is straightforward using a powered rivet nut gun or manual nutsert tool. Rivet nuts can be fitted into correctly sized drilled or punched holes at various stages of fabrication, including after painting or coating, provided suitable precautions are taken to protect the finish.

At Aerobolt®, we offer an extensive range of rivet nuts in popular metric thread sizes, including M3, M4, M5, M6, M8, M10 and M12, along with selected imperial sizes.

Our range includes smooth-body, knurled and hexagonal rivet nuts, as well as related threaded rivet studs, offering practical fastening solutions for numerous industrial applications.

How Do Rivet Nuts Work?

Rivet nuts are particularly useful when joining components to thin sheet metal, hollow sections or other materials that cannot accommodate a conventional tapped thread.

They work by compressing and deforming part of the rivet nut body during installation, creating a secure mechanical connection between the insert and the parent material.

The process involves four basic steps:

Step 1. Load the Rivet Nut

Thread the rivet nut onto the installation tool's mandrel. Some powered tools feature automatic spin-on functions to simplify the loading process.

Step 2. Insert and Activate

Place the rivet nut into a correctly sized, pre-drilled or punched hole and activate the tool.

The tool applies a controlled pulling force to the threaded section while supporting the rivet nut flange.

Step 3. Form the Blind-Side Bulge

As the tool pulls the mandrel, the collapsible section of the rivet nut body compresses and expands behind the parent material.

This forms a secure mechanical grip between the front flange and the newly formed blind-side bulge.

Step 4. Release the Tool

Once installation is complete, the tool's mandrel is unscrewed or automatically reversed out of the rivet nut, leaving a secure internal thread ready for use.

The Result: A strong, reliable threaded fastening point that allows bolts and screws to be installed and removed without accessing the reverse side of the material.

Rivnut® or Nutsert®: What's the Difference?

Rivnut® and Nutsert® are widely recognised brand names associated with blind threaded rivet nuts.

The generic term is rivet nut, although the expressions rivnut, nutsert, threaded insert and blind rivet nut are frequently used interchangeably throughout the fastening industry.

The original Rivnut® fastening technology is associated with Böllhoff®, while Nutsert® is an established product name associated with Avdel® and STANLEY® Engineered Fastening.

Although brand names may differ, the basic fastening principle remains similar: a threaded insert is mechanically secured into the parent material to provide a reliable internal thread.

At Aerobolt®, we offer a comprehensive selection of rivet nuts and nutsert installation tools to suit different materials, thread sizes and applications.

Components of a Rivet Nut

A standard rivet nut consists of several important features that contribute to its installation and performance.

• Body: The main cylindrical or shaped section containing the internal thread and the collapsible portion that forms the blind-side grip.

• Flange or Head: The rim at the front of the rivet nut that rests against the material surface and prevents the insert from pulling through during installation.

• Internal Thread: The threaded section designed to accept a compatible bolt or machine screw.

• Body Surface: Depending on the design, rivet nuts may feature smooth, knurled, ribbed or hexagonal bodies to suit different installation requirements and provide resistance to rotation.

Different flange styles, body lengths and grip ranges are available to suit various material thicknesses and fastening applications.

How Are Rivet Nuts Installed?

Installing a rivet nut is a relatively simple process when the correct fastener, hole size and installation tool are used.

1. Prepare the Hole

Drill or punch a hole in the parent material according to the manufacturer's specified dimensions.

The hole must match the rivet nut body, including the required shape and tolerances. Hexagonal rivet nuts generally require a correctly sized hexagonal hole.

2. Insert the Rivet Nut

Place the rivet nut into the prepared hole, ensuring the flange sits correctly against the material surface.

3. Position the Rivet Nut Tool

Using a compatible manual or powered rivet nut tool, thread the mandrel into the rivet nut and position the tool correctly against the flange.

4. Activate the Installation Tool

The tool applies a controlled pulling force, causing the collapsible section of the rivet nut body to deform and expand behind the material.

This creates a secure mechanical grip, holding the rivet nut firmly in position.

5. Release and Inspect

Unscrew or automatically reverse the tool's mandrel from the installed rivet nut.

Inspect the installation to ensure the flange is seated correctly, the insert is secure and the internal thread has not been damaged.

Important: Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for hole size, material grip range, installation stroke or force, and tool compatibility. Incorrect installation can cause spinning, thread damage or reduced fastening strength.

How Do You Install a Rivet Nut Without a Tool?

Installing a rivet nut without a dedicated tool is possible using certain improvised bolt-and-washer methods, but achieving a reliable, consistent installation can be challenging.

Incorrect installation may cause the rivet nut to spin, deform unevenly, damage its internal thread or fail to grip the parent material correctly.

For a professional finish and consistent fastening performance, Aerobolt® recommends using a purpose-designed rivet nut installation tool.

Manual nutsert tools are suitable for many occasional installations, while pneumatic and cordless rivet nut guns offer greater convenience and efficiency for repetitive or high-volume applications.

Explore our range of rivet nut guns and nutsert tools to find a suitable solution.

How Do You Remove a Rivet Nut?

Rivet nuts are designed to remain securely installed in the parent material. However, removal may be necessary when an insert becomes damaged, spins inside the hole or requires replacement.

Unlike a conventional nut and bolt, a rivet nut cannot simply be unscrewed from the material.

Removal generally involves destroying the insert, and care must be taken to avoid damaging or enlarging the original installation hole.

Tools You May Need:

• Suitable drill and drill bits.

• Centre punch.

• Long-nose pliers or suitable punch.

• Safety glasses, gloves and other appropriate protective equipment.

General Removal Procedure:

1. Prepare the Work Area: Wear appropriate protective equipment and secure the workpiece. Ensure removing the insert will not compromise the assembly or damage concealed components.

2. Identify the Rivet Nut: Check the material, body design and manufacturer's recommended removal method.

3. Remove the Flange: Where suitable, carefully drill away the rivet nut head or flange using an appropriately sized drill bit. Avoid drilling unnecessarily into the parent material.

4. Remove the Remaining Body: Once the flange is separated, the remaining insert body can often be pushed through the hole or removed using an appropriate tool.

5. Inspect the Hole: Check for damage, deformation or enlargement before installing a replacement rivet nut.

Important: Removal techniques vary depending on the rivet nut design, material and accessibility. For structural or safety-critical applications, follow the manufacturer's approved removal and replacement procedure.

Types of Rivet Nuts

Aerobolt® offers a comprehensive range of rivet nuts in various body styles, materials, thread sizes and configurations.

Understanding the differences can help you select the right fastener for your application.

Open-End Rivet Nuts

Feature an internal thread with an open end, allowing a suitably sized bolt or machine screw to extend through the insert when sufficient clearance is available.

Closed-End Rivet Nuts

Feature an enclosed body that prevents a bolt from passing completely through. These inserts can help protect the threaded opening from contaminants, although additional sealing features may be required for watertight applications.

Knurled Rivet Nuts

Feature a textured or ridged body designed to improve grip and resistance to rotation within the parent material.

Knurled rivet nuts are among Aerobolt®'s most popular threaded insert options.

Smooth-Body Rivet Nuts

Feature a plain cylindrical body suitable for various general-purpose applications. They are often used where installation simplicity and material compatibility are important.

Hexagonal Rivet Nuts

Feature a hexagonal body designed to fit into a matching hexagonal hole, providing excellent resistance to rotation under tightening torque.

Threaded Rivet Studs

A related blind fastening option featuring a protruding threaded stud rather than an internal thread. They provide a convenient way to attach components using a nut.

Choosing the Right Type: Consider the material thickness, required thread size, installation hole, grip range, corrosion resistance and expected loading before selecting a rivet nut.

Common Rivet Nut Applications

Rivet nuts are widely used across manufacturing, automotive, construction and industrial fabrication applications.

Their ability to provide a secure threaded fastening point with access from only one side makes them particularly useful for:

• Automotive & Transport: Attaching brackets, panels, vehicle accessories and interior components.

• Sheet Metal Fabrication: Creating threaded fastening points in thin metal sections and enclosures.

• Construction: Securing suitable brackets, fittings and building components.

• Caravans & Trailers: Installing accessories, fittings, panels and lightweight structural components.

• Industrial Equipment: Mounting covers, guards, control panels and equipment components.

• Electrical Enclosures: Installing suitable mounting hardware and internal components.

• Repairs & Maintenance: Replacing damaged threaded fastening points where rear access is limited.

For critical or load-bearing applications, the selected rivet nut must meet the relevant engineering and performance requirements.

How Strong Are Rivet Nuts?

Rivet nuts can provide strong, reliable threaded connections, particularly in thin materials where conventional tapped threads may be impractical.

However, rivet nut strength depends on several factors, including the fastener material, thread size, body design, parent material thickness and installation quality.

There is no single strength rating that applies to every rivet nut.

Understanding the main factors affecting performance will help you choose the most suitable fastener for your application.

Factors Affecting Rivet Nut Strength

1. Rivet Nut Material

Different materials provide varying levels of strength, corrosion resistance and installation characteristics.

• Steel Rivet Nuts: Offer good mechanical strength and are widely used in general industrial and heavy-duty applications. Protective coatings may be required for corrosion resistance.

• Stainless Steel Rivet Nuts: Combine mechanical strength with corrosion resistance, making suitable grades useful in demanding environments.

• Aluminium Rivet Nuts: Lightweight and generally easier to install, making them suitable for many lighter-duty applications where reduced weight is important.

Actual strength depends on the material grade and specific fastener design, not simply whether the insert is steel, stainless steel or aluminium.

2. Thread Size

Rivet nuts are available in various metric and imperial thread sizes.

Larger sizes may offer greater load capacity, but performance also depends on the fastener body, thread engagement, bolt specification and surrounding material.

Selecting the correct thread size is essential for achieving the required fastening strength.

3. Parent Material

The type and thickness of the installation material significantly influence rivet nut performance.

Steel, aluminium, plastics and composite materials have different mechanical properties and may require specific rivet nut designs.

Thin or softer materials can deform under load, potentially reducing pull-out resistance or allowing the insert to rotate.

Always select a rivet nut with a grip range suitable for the actual material thickness.

4. Installation Quality

Correct installation is essential for achieving reliable fastening performance.

An incorrectly sized hole, unsuitable tool setting or excessive installation force can cause problems such as:

• Rivet nut spinning within the hole.

• Insufficient blind-side grip.

• Damage to the internal thread.

• Deformation of the parent material.

• Reduced pull-out or rotational resistance.

Following the manufacturer's installation specifications helps ensure the rivet nut performs as intended.

Understanding Rivet Nut Strength Ratings

Rivet nut manufacturers may provide several mechanical performance ratings to help determine suitability for particular applications.

Pull-Out Strength

Pull-out strength describes resistance to an axial force attempting to pull the rivet nut out of the parent material or cause failure of the threaded connection.

Performance depends on the rivet nut design, material thickness, installation quality and test conditions.

Spin-Out Resistance

Spin-out resistance measures the torque required to cause an installed rivet nut to rotate within the parent material.

This is particularly important when tightening or removing bolts, especially in applications where repeated servicing is required.

Push-Out Strength

Push-out strength describes resistance to a force attempting to push the installed rivet nut through the parent material in the opposite direction to pull-out loading.

Thread Strength and Torque Resistance

The internal threads must withstand the forces generated when a bolt or screw is tightened.

Excessive tightening torque can damage the rivet nut threads, cause the insert to rotate or deform the surrounding material.

Shear Load Capacity

The ability of a completed joint to withstand forces acting across the connection depends on the entire assembly, including the bolt, rivet nut, parent material and joint design.

Shear capacity should not be assumed from the rivet nut's thread size alone.

Important: Always refer to the manufacturer's published technical data and testing conditions when assessing rivet nut strength. Performance figures from one rivet nut design should not be applied to another without verification.

Are Rivet Nuts Suitable for Heavy-Duty Applications?

Rivet nuts are used in numerous industrial applications, from general bracket installation and sheet metal fabrication to demanding equipment assembly.

High-strength rivet nut designs can provide substantial holding performance when correctly selected and installed.

However, for applications involving extreme loads, repeated dynamic loading or critical structural connections, alternative fastening methods such as weld nuts, engineered bolts or other high-strength fasteners may be more appropriate.

The Golden Rule: Select your rivet nut based on the intended application, material thickness, installation requirements and verified manufacturer performance data.

At Aerobolt®, we offer a comprehensive range of rivet nuts, nutserts, rivnuts and professional installation tools, backed by practical product knowledge and technical support.

Explore our rivet nut tools and nutsert guns or contact Aerobolt® for assistance selecting the right fastening solution.