What Is a Rivet Nut? How Does a Blind Rivet Nut Work?
A rivet nut (also called a blind rivet nut, rivnut, or riveted threaded insert) is a type of internally threaded fastener designed specifically for applications involving thin metal sheets, tubing, or other materials that cannot accommodate conventional nuts or welding.
It combines the quick installation advantage of a rivet with the functionality of a threaded nut, offering an excellent alternative to weld nuts or captive nuts. As a professional fastener manufacturer, Xinchi is happy to introduce rivet nuts to you.
Rivet Nut Structure and Components
A standard rivet nut typically consists of the following parts:
- Body: A hollow, cylindrical structure with internal threads
- Flange: The head that rests on the material surface and prevents pull-through
- Deformation Zone: The section designed to bulge and form a lock behind the base material during installation
Common materials: carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum
Thread sizes: M3 to M12 (and imperial equivalents)
Surface treatments: zinc plating, anodizing, electrophoresis, etc.
How Does a Rivet Nut Work?
The rivet nut works by deforming under axial force to create a secure, permanent, and load-bearing connection within a base material — all from one side only.
Installation Steps:
- Drill a Hole: Slightly larger than the rivet nut’s outer diameter
- Insert the Rivet Nut: Flange flush with the material surface
- Use a Riveting Tool: The tool pulls the internal threads, causing the body to bulge on the blind side
- Deformation Locks the Nut: Creating a strong mechanical grip
- Thread Ready: A durable internal thread is now available for bolt fastening
This process requires no backside access, making it perfect for closed profiles or blind installations.
Where Are Rivet Nuts Used?
Thanks to their versatility and structural integrity, rivet nuts are widely used across many industries, including:
- Automotive: Car body panels, seat mounts, roof racks
- Appliance Manufacturing: AC units, washing machines, kitchen appliances
- Electronics & Cabinets: Server enclosures, control boxes, telecom equipment
- Sheet Metal Fabrication: Aluminum profiles, ventilation ducts
- Furniture: Office desks, cabinets, metal frame chairs
Wherever quick and reliable threading is required in thin or hollow materials, rivet nuts deliver unmatched performance.
A rivet nut is an efficient, cost-effective, and highly reliable fastener that enables blind-side installation, strong internal threading, and repeat usability — all without welding or special material preparation.
Whether you’re working in automotive, electronics, home appliances, or metal fabrication, rivet nuts can improve your production efficiency and structural integrity.
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 can offer a wide range of high-quality fasteners, including nuts, screws, bolts, rivets, washers, etc. If you want to know more about fasteners or want to wholesale fasteners, please feel free to contact us. Our experienced and expert service team will reply as soon as possible.