A blind rivet nut, also known as a threaded insert or rivet nut, is a type of fastener used to create a threaded connection in materials that are too thin or brittle to support traditional threaded inserts or nuts. It is designed to provide a strong and reliable threaded anchor point in applications where access is limited to only one side of the material.
Blind rivet nuts consist of a cylindrical body with an externally knurled or ribbed surface for enhanced grip. The body is typically made of a durable and corrosion-resistant material such as steel, aluminum, or stainless steel. At one end of the body, there is a flange or head that provides a load-bearing surface.
The opposite end of the blind rivet nut features a pre-formed internal thread, which allows for the insertion of a screw or bolt. The internal thread can be compatible with various thread sizes and standards, such as metric or unified threads.
Blind rivet nuts are installed using a specialized tool called a rivet nut setter or insertion tool. The tool places the rivet nut into a pre-drilled hole in the material. As the tool pulls on the mandrel, the rivet nut is drawn up into the material, causing the body to expand and grip the surrounding material. This creates a secure and reliable threaded connection.
Blind rivet nuts find applications in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and furniture manufacturing. They are particularly useful when joining thin or lightweight materials, such as sheet metal, fiberglass, or plastics, where traditional threaded inserts may not be feasible or would compromise the integrity of the material.
Overall, blind rivet nuts provide a convenient and efficient solution for adding strong threaded connections to materials that would otherwise be difficult to work with.