Whats the T Nuts’ Shape?

A T-nut, also known as a tee nut or blind nut, has a specific design that allows it to be inserted into wood, particleboard, and other materials to provide a threaded socket. T-nuts are different from T-slot nuts (used with aluminum extrusions).

As one of the leading T-nuts suppliers, Xinchi is glad to share a breakdown of the shape and components of a typical T-nut.

Flange: The top part of the T-nut is a flat, circular flange. This flange sits flush against the surface of the material into which the nut is installed. It often has small spikes or prongs that grip into the material, preventing the nut from turning when a bolt is threaded into it.

Barrel: Extending downward from the flange is a cylindrical barrel, which is threaded internally to accommodate a machine screw or bolt. This barrel is what inserts into the material.

Prongs or Spikes: Around the circumference of the flange, there are typically several sharp prongs or spikes. When the T-nut is hammered or pressed into the material, these prongs help secure it in place by biting into the material. This is particularly useful for preventing the nut from rotating or pulling out under load.

Threaded Hole: The central hole running through the barrel of the T-nut is threaded to match the external threads of a bolt or a screw. This threading is crucial as it transforms a material that lacks threading capability into one that can securely accept metal fasteners.

Material and Size: T-nuts are commonly made from steel, which may be zinc-plated or stainless for corrosion resistance. They come in various sizes and thread specifications to suit different bolts and applications.

Installation: To install a T-nut, a hole slightly smaller than the barrel’s diameter is drilled into the material. The T-nut is then inserted into the hole, usually flange-side up, and the prongs are hammered down until the flange is flush with the surface. This method provides a strong, reusable threaded anchor within the material, which is especially useful in applications where the bolt or screw will be removed and reinserted multiple times.

T-nuts are particularly popular in furniture assembly, climbing walls, and various woodworking applications where a strong internal thread is required in a blind (not through-going) hole.

Xinchi is a trustworthy fastener company, especially in furniture nuts. We have a factory,  founded in 2007(Factory Video). And we are the designated fastener supplier to“STAPLE”. As a trusted fastener supplier,  Xinchi can offer a wide range of high-quality fasteners, including T 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. And then our experienced and expert service team will reply to you as soon as possible.