A rivet nut, also known as a blind rivet nut, threaded insert, or anchor nut, is a type of fastener that provides strong, permanent threads in thin or hollow materials, such as sheet metal or plastic, without the need to access both sides of the workpiece. It is essentially a tubular rivet with an internal thread that can be installed from one side of a panel.
How to Assemble Rivet Nuts in Plates
The assembly process for rivet nuts involves the following steps:
1. Drill the Hole: Drill a hole in the plate with the appropriate diameter for the desired rivet nut size. The hole size should be slightly larger than the rivet nut's body diameter.
2. Insert the Rivet Nut: Insert the rivet nut into the hole from one side of the plate. Ensure the rivet nut is positioned straight and correctly seated in the hole.
3. Use the Rivet Nut Tool: Select the appropriate rivet nut tool for the size of the rivet nut being installed. Rivet nut tools come in different designs, including manual, electric, and pneumatic versions.
4. Set the Rivet Nut: Place the rivet nut tool over the rivet nut and squeeze or apply force to the tool's handles. This will cause the rivet nut's body to expand, creating a solid grip against the walls of the hole and securely engaging the threads.
5. Inspect the Assembly: Check to ensure the rivet nut is properly seated and that the threads are firmly engaged. The rivet nut should be tight and resist turning.
6. Attach Components: Once the rivet nut is set, you can attach the desired components or materials to the threads of the rivet nut.
By following these steps, you can securely and effectively install rivet nuts in plates or various other materials, providing reliable and versatile fastening solutions for diverse applications.