How to Specify a Rivetnut

A clear rivetnut specification helps you select an insert suited to your material, fixing requirements and installation method. Start with these six key details when choosing a rivetnut or requesting a quotation.

1. Thread size

Choose the internal thread to match your bolt or screw. Common metric sizes include M3, M4, M5, M6, M8, M10 and M12. Confirm the thread pitch as well as the nominal size.

For example, an M8 bolt requires an M8 rivetnut with a matching thread pitch.

2. Material and finish

Select the insert material and finish for the application, taking account of strength, corrosion exposure and compatibility with the parent material.

  • Steel: An option for many general engineering applications. Specify any required plating or protective finish.
  • Stainless steel: Consider where corrosion resistance is important, checking the grade against the environment.
  • Aluminium: A lightweight option where its mechanical properties and material compatibility suit the application.

3. Head style

The head style affects how the rivetnut sits against the surface and the clearance needed for the attached component.

  • Flat head: Provides a flange that sits above the material surface.
  • Countersunk head: Can provide a flush finish when fitted into a correctly prepared countersunk hole.
  • Reduced head: Provides a smaller head profile where clearance or appearance matters.

Follow the manufacturer's hole preparation and material thickness requirements for your chosen style.

4. Body type

The body shape determines the hole shape required and can influence resistance to rotation.

  • Round body: Fits a circular hole of the specified diameter. Smooth and knurled versions may be available.
  • Half-hex body: Uses a hexagonal section to help resist rotation in a correctly prepared matching hole.
  • Full-hex body: Uses a hexagonal body and requires a matching hexagonal hole.

Check the product's installation drawing for the exact hole dimensions and tolerances.

5. Open or closed end

Open-end rivetnuts allow the bolt to pass through the insert, provided there is sufficient clearance behind it.

Closed-end rivetnuts have a closed base that blocks the path through the end of the insert. Choose a bolt length that will not bottom out.

A closed end does not automatically make the complete fixing watertight. Where sealing is required, check the product specifications, any seal or sealant requirements and the performance of the assembled joint.

6. Grip range

The grip range is the material thickness range for which the insert is designed. Measure the material at the installation point and select a rivetnut whose specified grip range includes that thickness.

For example, a 2.0 mm panel falls within a stated grip range of 0.5–3.0 mm, but not within 3.0–5.0 mm. These figures illustrate the selection principle, not the specification of a particular product.

Example specification

A clear specification could read:

M8 flat-head, round-body, open-end, zinc-plated steel rivetnut, suitable for a 2.0 mm steel panel.

Confirm the manufacturer's part number, grip range, hole dimensions and performance data before ordering.

Requesting a quotation

When contacting Rivetnut Technology Systems, provide:

  • Thread size and pitch.
  • Insert material and required finish.
  • Head style and body type.
  • Open or closed end.
  • Parent material and thickness.
  • Quantity required.
  • Any load, corrosion, sealing or installation requirements.

Example enquiry

“Please quote for 1,000 M8 flat-head, round-body, open-end, zinc-plated steel rivetnuts suitable for a 2.0 mm steel panel. Please confirm the recommended grip range and hole size.”

If you are unsure which option to choose, share your application details so suitable options can be discussed. Verify the fixing through the relevant technical data and appropriate testing, particularly for load-bearing or safety-critical applications.