How to Efficiently Install Rivet Nuts in Sheet Metal Fabrication?

In the sheet metal industry, rivet nuts are essential fasteners used to create strong internal threads in thin or soft materials that cannot be tapped. For mass production, choosing the right installation method is key to improving efficiency and ensuring connection reliability. As a professional rivet nut supplier, XINCHI is glad to introduce you to.

Pneumatic Rivet Nut Tools Are Ideal for Batch Installation

The most commonly used solution in sheet metal workshops is the pneumatic rivet nut gun. The operator inserts the rivet nut into the tool, aligns it with the pre-punched hole, and pulls the trigger. Installation is fast, stable, and requires minimal effort.

Advantages:

• Fast installation speed — typically 1–2 seconds per nut;
• Consistent pull force, reducing risk of over-compression or slippage;
• Easy to operate, ideal for assembly lines.

Automatic Rivet Nut Machines for Large-Scale Sheet Metal Production

For manufacturers with large-volume orders, an automatic rivet nut installation system can drastically boost productivity. These machines feature auto-feeding and positioning, and can be integrated with robotic arms or linear actuators for precise and continuous operations.

Best suited for:

• Standardized products like electrical enclosures, control cabinets, HVAC shells, and automotive panels;
• High-speed, high-consistency production environments.

Cordless Rivet Nut Tools for On-Site Sheet Metal Assembly

In on-site assembly scenarios — such as large equipment frames or structural sheet metal parts — portable electric rivet nut tools offer greater flexibility. They’re ideal for hard-to-reach areas, irregular shapes, or low-volume operations.

• Applications include:
• Equipment maintenance;
• Mobile platforms;
• Custom or complex sheet metal structures.

Matching Rivet Nut Hole Size and Sheet Thickness Matters

To ensure a secure and durable connection, proper preparation is essential before installing rivet nuts:

• The hole diameter must precisely match the rivet nut’s outer body (e.g., an M6 rivet nut typically needs a 9.0 ± 0.1 mm hole);
• The sheet thickness must fall within the rivet nut’s specified grip range;
• Different materials (steel, aluminum, stainless) require appropriate pull force and tool settings;
• Pay attention to changes in size tolerance after surface treatments, such as zinc plating or powder coating.

Why Choose Xinchi as Your Rivet Nut Manufacturer?

As a professional rivet nut manufacturer, Xinchi Fasteners Co., Ltd. offers:

• A 30,000 m² production base with two 6-floor factory buildings;
• 102 cold heading machines with a daily output exceeding 10 million pieces;
• Full range of carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum rivet nuts (M3–M12);
• Customization options for dimensions, knurling, head type, and surface finishes;
• Technical support and matching tool recommendations to assist with bulk installations.

XINCHI is a trustworthy fastener company, especially in furniture nuts. We have a factory,  founded in 2007. We are the designated fastener supplier to“STAPLE”. As a trusted fastener supplier, XINCHI offers a wide range of high-quality fasteners, including nuts, screws, bolts, rivets, and washers. If you would like to learn more about fasteners or are interested in wholesale fasteners, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our experienced and expert service team will reply as soon as possible.

Need help selecting the right rivet nut or installation solution for your sheet metal project? Contact Xinchi Fasteners for samples, technical advice, or OEM/ODM service.