Rivet Nuts and Types

Rivet nuts are a type of internally threaded fasteners that is often used for materials that are brittle or thin, allowing for fastening solutions for components that are intolerable of hole tapping. The rivet nut features a one-piece design, allowing for it to be anchored from one side of the component. Rivet nuts were originally developed in 1936 for attaching rubber deicing boots to the leading edge of an aircraft wing, and they have since expanded their use to many more applications. In this blog, we will discuss the various types of rivet nuts and rivet materials that may be chosen from, enabling you to find which is best suited for your needs.

Also known as blind rivet nuts, such fasteners may either feature an open end or a closed end. With a closed end nut, the back end of the fastener is completely sealed out, preventing debris and contaminants from entering. To further protection, sealants may also be implemented to deter moisture and lubricants. When choosing which types of rivets nuts are best suited for your application, it is important to consider the torque value, grip range, rivet material, body style, parent material, environment, strength of the rivet, and size of the rivet.

Aluminum rivet nuts are a type that provides the means for facilitating simple connections and provides clean internal threads once installed. They are fairly easy to establish within components and often do not need finishing as well. In general, aluminum rivet materials have benefits such as resistance to corrosion, decreased weight, and high electrical and thermal conductivity.

Where there is a need for a fastener that provides high strength capability and resistance to corrosion, rivet materials such as stainless steel is very beneficial. Stainless steel is very durable, and its resistance extends to corrosion, fire, and heat. It also provides optimal strength to weight ratios, allowing for powerful fastening solutions without greatly increasing overall weight.

Brass rivet nuts are often reserved for implementation in applications where there is a need for a very versatile metal. For sheet metal, brass rivet nuts may be installed very quickly and provide an effective fastening solution, and they are favorable for a wide range of applications. In regards to their capabilities, brass rivet nuts feature good malleability and resistance to corrosion, as well as exceptional tolerance to temperature.

To install rivet nuts, a compression process is used to attach the fastener to the component. This is typically carried out with the use of a special rivet nut tool which squeezes the nut with in-line forces. Depending on whether the rivet nut body is smooth, swage, hex, or ribbed, various torque values may be utilized to ensure a proper installation that will be strong and effective. As various rivet nut types and materials each provide their own benefits, it is important to consider all aspects of the application so that you may find the perfect fit.

When it comes time to begin sourcing the aircraft rivet nuts that you need for your operations, Aerospace Unlimited has you covered with everything you are searching for. Aerospace Unlimited is owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, and we can help you find the aviation, NSN, and electronic parts that you are searching for, new or obsolete. As a premier supplier of parts for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries, we're always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7x365. ASAP Semiconductor is an FAA AC 00-56B accredited and ISO 9001:2015 certified enterprise. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@aerospaceunlimited.com or call us at +1-412-212-0606.