Rivetnut vs Weld Nut vs Clinch Nut
Rivetnuts, weld nuts and clinch nuts all create a threaded fixing point, but they use different installation methods. The right choice depends on access, material, production equipment and the performance required from the finished joint.
Rivetnuts: threaded fixings with one-sided access
A rivetnut is inserted into a prepared hole and set using a compatible installation tool. Its body deforms behind the material to hold it in place, allowing installation from one side.
Key benefits
- Useful where the back of the component is inaccessible.
- No welding or welding heat is required.
- Suitable for thin materials within the insert's specified grip range.
- Can be useful for retrofit work and assembled components.
Points to check
Select the correct hole size, body shape, grip range and tool settings. Resistance to rotation and pull-out depends on the insert design, parent material and installation quality. Installation into coated components may be possible, but check for coating damage and protect exposed material where necessary.
Typical uses include sheet metal fabrications, vehicle panels, enclosures and equipment brackets.
Weld nuts: threaded fixings attached by welding
A weld nut is attached to a compatible metal component using an appropriate welding process, such as projection welding. The quality of the fixing depends on the nut design, material compatibility and control of the welding process.
Key benefits
- Can provide a robust fixing when the joint is correctly designed and welded.
- Can be integrated into manufacturing processes that already include welding.
- May suit applications with demanding load requirements, subject to verification.
Points to check
Weld nuts require suitable equipment and access for positioning and welding. Heat can affect coatings or distort thin material, so installation sequence and surface protection need consideration. Strength and vibration performance must be confirmed for the specific assembly.
Typical uses include welded vehicle components, machinery and fabricated assemblies.
Clinch nuts: press-installed fixings for sheet metal
A self-clinching nut is pressed into a prepared hole. During installation, the sheet material flows into features on the fastener to create a mechanical lock.
Key benefits
- No welding heat is required.
- Can suit repeatable sheet metal production using appropriate press equipment.
- Some designs provide a flush finish on one side of the sheet.
Points to check
Installation generally requires access to both sides for the press tooling. The sheet must meet the fastener manufacturer's requirements for material hardness, thickness, hole dimensions and edge distance. Installation force and tooling must also be controlled.
Typical uses include electronics housings, electrical cabinets, appliances and sheet metal assemblies.
Quick comparison
| Consideration | Rivetnut | Weld nut | Clinch nut |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installation method | Set with a rivetnut tool | Attached by welding | Pressed into suitable sheet material |
| Access required | One-sided installation | Access for positioning and welding equipment | Generally both sides for press tooling |
| Welding heat | Not required | Required | Not required |
| Main selection checks | Grip range, hole preparation and setting parameters | Material compatibility, weld process and joint quality | Sheet hardness, thickness and press requirements |
Which fixing should you choose?
- Consider a rivetnut when you need one-sided installation, want to avoid welding or are adding a fixing to an existing assembly.
- Consider a weld nut when the component and manufacturing process are suited to welding and the joint can be designed and verified for the required loads.
- Consider a clinch nut when suitable sheet material, access to both sides and press equipment are available.
There is no universal strength ranking between these fixing types. Compare the technical data for the specific fasteners and test them in representative material. For load-bearing or safety-critical applications, obtain an appropriate technical assessment.
Need help choosing a rivetnut?
Contact Rivetnut Technology Systems with your material type, thickness, thread size, installation access and application requirements to discuss suitable rivetnut options.