Rivet Nut Types Explained: How to Choose the Best Fit for Your Project
When it comes to creating strong, reliable threads in thin or soft materials, rivet nuts—also known as rivnuts or nutserts—are the go-to solution across industries like automotive, aerospace, electronics, and construction. These blind fasteners are designed for one-sided installation, making them ideal for applications where access to the rear side of the material is limited or impossible.
Understanding the different rivet nut types is essential for selecting the right fastener for your project’s strength, material, and installation requirements.
🔩 What Is a Rivet Nut?
A rivet nut is a tubular, internally threaded fastener that can be anchored into thin materials such as sheet metal, plastic, or composites. Once installed using a rivet nut tool, it provides a permanent, load-bearing thread that can accept standard screws or bolts.
Unlike traditional nuts, rivet nuts don’t require access to both sides of the material, making them ideal for blind fastening.
🧰 Common Rivet Nut Types
Here are the most widely used rivet nut types, each designed for specific applications and materials:Rivet Nut TypeDescriptionBest ForRound Body Rivet NutSmooth cylindrical body; may be plain or knurledGeneral-purpose fasteningHex Body Rivet NutHexagonal shape prevents rotation after installationHigh-torque applicationsSlotted Rivet NutSlots allow expansion during installationSoft or thin materialsPre-Bulbed Rivet NutPre-formed bulge for easier installationSheet metal and plasticsLarge Flange Rivet NutWide flange distributes load and prevents pull-throughSoft or brittle substratesSmall Flange Rivet NutCompact flange for tight spacesElectronics and enclosuresCountersunk Rivet NutFlush finish after installationAesthetic or low-profile assembliesClosed-End Rivet NutSealed bottom prevents fluid or debris ingressAutomotive and HVACFloating Rivet NutAllows slight movement for misalignment toleranceMulti-panel assembliesThreaded Insert Rivet NutInternal threads only; used with adhesive or press-fitNon-load-bearing applications
Sources: RivetFix – 10 Types of Rivet Nuts, Junying CNC Guide, Minimalist Focus – Rivet Nut Selection
✅ Material Options
Rivet nuts are available in a variety of materials to suit different environments:
Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant
Steel: Strong and cost-effective
Stainless Steel: High strength and corrosion resistance
Brass: Good conductivity and aesthetics
Zinc-Plated Steel: Enhanced corrosion protection
Choosing the right material depends on load requirements, exposure to moisture, and compatibility with surrounding components.
🏭 Applications Across Industries
Rivet nuts are used in:
Automotive: Mounting brackets, panels, and trim
Aerospace: Lightweight structural fastening
Electronics: Securing PCBs and enclosures
Furniture: Assembling metal frames and supports
HVAC: Attaching ductwork and insulation
Their blind installation capability makes them ideal for enclosed or hard-to-reach areas.
🛠️ Installation Tips
To install a rivet nut:
Drill a hole to the correct diameter.
Insert the rivet nut into the hole.
Use a manual or pneumatic rivet nut tool to compress and secure the nut.
Thread in the bolt or screw.
Always refer to manufacturer specifications for hole size, grip range, and torque limits.
💡 Final Thoughts
Understanding rivet nut types is key to selecting the right fastener for strength, durability, and ease of installation. Whether you're working with sheet metal, composites, or plastic, rivet nuts offer a reliable solution for creating threaded connections where traditional methods fall short.
