Horizon Inc.

Nut Inserts Technical Datasheets

This technical datasheet library covers various types of nut inserts including round , semi hex an full hex body in large and reduced flange and open and closed end. Browse the individual datasheets below to access detailed engineering information, drawings, technical specifications, and downloadable product documentation.

Round Body
Large Flange
round-body
Round Body
Reduced Flange
Round Body
CSK
Nut Inserts Semi Hex
Semi Hex
Large Flange
Semi Hex
Reduced Flange
Full Hex Nut Inserts (Hex Rivet Nut) — High-Torque Spin-Resistant Threaded Insert
Full Hex
Large Flange
Full Hex
Reduced Flange

Nut inserts, commonly known as Rivet Nuts, Blind Rivet Nuts, or Threaded Inserts, provide strong reusable internal threads in thin sheets, hollow sections, tubes, and other materials where conventional tapping is not practical.

Installed from one side of the workpiece, nut inserts eliminate the need for access to the rear of the assembly while providing reliable load-bearing threads for repeated assembly and maintenance.

They are widely used across sheet metal fabrication, electrical enclosures, automotive components, railways, HVAC equipment, furniture, agricultural machinery, electronics, and general manufacturing.

Unlike tapped holes, nut inserts provide durable machine threads in thin materials without welding or backside access.

Benefits include:

Available in corrosion-resistant materials
Strong permanent internal threads
Installation from one side only
Suitable for thin sheet materials
Allows repeated assembly and disassembly
No distortion caused by welding
Suitable for painted or coated parts
Fast installation

MaterialAdvantagesTypical Applications
Steel Zinc PlatedHigh strength and economicalGeneral engineering
Stainless Steel 304Excellent corrosion resistanceFood processing, electronics
Stainless Steel 316Superior marine corrosion resistanceOffshore, marine
AluminiumLightweightAutomotive, aerospace, electronics

✅ Do

  • Select the correct nut insert type (Round Body, Hex Body, Half-Hex, Closed-End, etc.) for your application.
  • Drill the hole to the recommended diameter with the specified tolerance.
  • Deburr and clean the hole before installation.
  • Use a calibrated rivet nut installation tool with the correct mandrel and nosepiece.
  • Install the insert perpendicular (90°) to the sheet surface.
  • Ensure the material thickness falls within the specified grip range.
  • Verify the insert is fully collapsed and seated flush against the parent material.
  • Use the recommended tightening torque for the mating screw.
  • Inspect installed inserts periodically in high-vibration applications.

❌ Don’t

  • Don’t use oversized or irregular holes.
  • Don’t install inserts into sheet material thinner than the specified grip range.
  • Don’t over-compress the insert during installation.
  • Don’t reuse damaged or partially installed inserts.
  • Don’t overtighten screws beyond the recommended torque.
  • Don’t use round-body inserts where high anti-rotation performance is required if a hex-body insert is available.
  • Don’t ignore corrosion compatibility between the insert and the parent material.
  • Don’t install inserts too close to the sheet edge unless permitted by the manufacturer’s recommendations.

ProblemPossible CauseRecommended Solution
Nut insert spins when tightening screwHole diameter too large or insert not fully collapsedVerify hole size and install using the correct setting force. Consider a hex-body insert if higher torque resistance is needed.
Insert pulls out of the sheetIncorrect grip range or sheet material too thinSelect an insert suitable for the material thickness and verify pull-out requirements.
Insert sits proud of the surfaceIncomplete installation stroke or burrs around the holeRemove burrs and ensure the installation tool completes the full stroke.
Thread strips during assemblyExcessive tightening torque or incorrect screwUse the specified tightening torque and the correct screw grade.
Parent material cracksHole too close to the edge or excessive installation forceIncrease edge distance and use the correct installation force.
Screw will not thread smoothlyDamaged internal thread or contaminationInspect threads and replace damaged inserts if necessary.
Insert rotates after repeated serviceJoint subjected to vibration beyond insert capabilityConsider hex-body, splined, or structural inserts, or add thread-locking where appropriate.
Corrosion around insertDissimilar metals or unsuitable platingSelect compatible materials or corrosion-resistant finishes appropriate for the environment.

RequirementRecommended Nut Insert
General sheet metalRound Body Open-End
High torque resistanceHex Body
Waterproof / sealed assembliesClosed-End
Thin sheet materialsThin Sheet Nut Insert
Stainless steel applicationsStainless Steel Nut Insert
Aluminium structuresAluminium Nut Insert
High vibrationHex Body
Decorative or flush finishCountersunk Head Nut Insert
Soft materialsLarge Flange Nut Insert

✔ Material thickness

✔ Parent material (Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminium, Plastic)

✔ Hole diameter

✔ Required thread size

✔ Required pull-out strength

✔ Required torque-out resistance

✔ Open-End or Closed-End

✔ Round Body or Hex Body

✔ Installation method (Hand Tool, Pneumatic, Hydraulic)

✔ Corrosion environment

What is a nut insert?

A nut insert is a blind-installed threaded fastener that creates permanent internal threads in thin materials without requiring access to the opposite side.

What is the difference between a rivet nut and a nut insert?

There is no functional difference. “Rivet nut” and “nut insert” are commonly used interchangeably in industry.

Can nut inserts be installed after painting?

Yes. Since installation is performed mechanically, nut inserts can often be installed after painting or coating, provided the hole dimensions remain within specification.

What materials are available?

Typical materials include zinc-plated steel, stainless steel (A2/304 and A4/316), and aluminium.

How do I choose the correct grip range?

Select a grip range that matches the total thickness of the material being fastened. Using the correct grip range ensures proper deformation and maximum performance.

Can nut inserts be used in stainless steel sheets?

Yes. Proper hole preparation and the correct installation force are essential for reliable installation in stainless steel sheets.

Are metric and UNC threads available?

Yes. Nut inserts are available in both metric and imperial thread sizes depending on application requirements.

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