21 Jun What Are Rivets and Rivnuts Used For?
Rivets and rivnuts are used across a wide range of industries, and for good reason. They’re quick to install, reliable under load, and they work where other fastening methods simply aren’t practical.
Understanding the difference between the two helps when it comes to specifying the right product for the job.
What is a Rivet?
A rivet is a permanent mechanical fastener. Once installed, it creates a strong, secure join that isn’t designed to be removed. Installation is fast and only requires access to one side of the material, which makes rivets a practical choice in assembly and manufacturing environments.
Common applications include:
- Sheet metal fabrication
- Automotive manufacturing and repair
- HVAC ductwork
- Construction and structural assemblies
- Electrical enclosures
- Signage and display systems
- Agricultural equipment
Because the fixing is permanent, rivets are well suited to applications where components won’t need to be regularly adjusted or replaced.
What is a Rivnut?
A rivnut, sometimes called a blind threaded insert, creates a threaded fixing point in thin materials where a conventional nut can’t be used. Unlike a rivet, it leaves an internal thread, allowing bolts and screws to be fitted and removed as needed.
- Vehicle bodies and commercial vehicles
- Plant and machinery
- Electrical cabinets and enclosures
- Metal fabrication
- Agricultural machinery
- Construction equipment
- Maintenance and repair applications
What Makes Them a Popular Choice?
Both rivets and rivnuts offer practical advantages in manufacturing, engineering and construction environments.
Fast Installation
Suitable for Thin Materials
Access from One Side
Many applications only allow access to one side of the workpiece. Both rivets and rivnuts can be installed from a single side, making them ideal for enclosed sections and finished assemblies.
Reliable Performance
When correctly specified and installed, rivets and rivnuts provide durable fixing solutions capable of handling vibration, movement and demanding working conditions.
Material Selection
As with most fasteners, material choice matters. Steel, stainless steel and aluminium are the most common options, with each offering different advantages depending on the application.
For applications exposed to moisture, chemicals or outdoor conditions, stainless steel is often the preferred option thanks to its excellent corrosion resistance.
Factors such as load requirements, operating environment and compatibility with surrounding materials should all be considered when selecting the right product.