Rivet Nut (Rivnut) — Metric & Imperial Threaded Inserts

Strong, Permanent Threads in Thin Materials

Rivet nuts—also commonly called Rivnuts—provide a strong, reliable internal thread in thin or soft materials where tapping is not possible. Once installed, a rivet nut creates a permanent, load‑bearing thread that can be used repeatedly, making it ideal for sheet metal, aluminum extrusions, tubing, and plastics.

Rivet nuts are installed from one side only, making them ideal for blind applications where access to the back of the material is limited or impossible.

Available Sizes, Threads, and Materials

Rivet nuts are available in a wide range of configurations to suit both light‑duty and industrial applications:

• Thread types:
  • Metric
  • Imperial (UNC / UNF)
• Materials:
  • Carbon steel (high strength, general use)
  • Aluminium (lightweight, corrosion‑resistant)
• Styles:
  • Round body
  • Knurled body (improved spin resistance)

This range makes it easy to select the correct rivet nut based on material thickness, load requirements, and operating environment.

Typical Applications

Rivet nuts are commonly used in a wide variety of professional, industrial, and DIY applications, including:

• Electronics enclosures and chassis
• Sheet‑metal fabrication
• Automotive and motorsport projects
• CNC machines and mechanical assemblies
• Maker projects and prototypes
• Repair, retrofit, and maintenance work

Because the thread is formed without welding, rivet nuts are especially useful where heat distortion must be avoided or surface coatings must be preserved.

Installation Options

Rivet nuts can be installed using several methods, depending on volume and access:

• Dedicated rivet nut installation tools
• Lever‑type or mandrel‑based tools
• Simple bolt, washer, and wrench methods for low‑volume work

Once installed, the rivet nut expands behind the panel, locking securely in place and providing a clean, professional threaded attachment point.

Drill Chart for Mounting Rivent Nuts

Installing Rivet Nuts Without A Special Tool

The installation of a rivet nut is straightforward when you have a proper insertion tool, and it is handy when you have many to install. It is also possible to install rivet nuts without a dedicated installation tool. Below are videos that describe the installation process without having to own a special tool.

Here is a YouTube video describing how to install a Rivnut without a dedicated Rivnut tool.