Setting Rivet Nuts Using the Spin-Pull Method

Blind Rivet Nuts Are Installed by Axial Pulling Force

joining process technology spin pull riveting blind rivet nut stud screw sheet metal

The spin-pull installation method allows blind rivet fasteners to be installed in a quick and efficient manner. Spin-pull fastening is popular in a wide range of applications, including 

  • Automotive manufacturing for rapid joining of thin sheet metal. This ensures a secure connection without damaging the material and allows easy disassembly and maintenance of the components.
  • For fast assembly of refrigerators, HVAC systems or furniture. Wherever, strength and durability are required.
  • For precise threaded connections in electronic devices without having to access both sides of the component.

How Does the Spin-Pull Method Work?

cross section of blind rivet nuts with round body and knurled grip range in sheet metal
Cross section of round blind rivet nuts with small vs. large head

The spin-pull installation process of a blind rivet nut includes the following steps:

Positioning the fastener: The workpiece is pre-drilled to the size of the blind rivet nut. The blind rivet nut is threaded onto the mandrel of the installation tool. The mandrel with the blind rivet nut is then inserted into the pilot hole in the workpiece.

Set the blind rivet nut by pulling: The tool pulls back the mandrel. This pulling action compresses the nonthreaded part of the rivet nut and bulges it outwards on the rear side of the metal sheet (the side inaccessible to the operator). This deformation of the fastener creates a form-fit joint between the blind rivet nut and the workpiece.

Releasing the Tool: Once the rivet nut is fully set, the tool automatically spins in the opposite direction to release the mandrel from the rivet nut. The installed nut now provides an attachment point for a screw.

Advantages of the Spin-Pull Method

automatic assembly system installation blind rivet stud bolt screw setting unit

This method allows fast processing of blind rivet nuts, especially for high volume production. The process is fast, taking only a few seconds to complete, contributing to overall productivity.

autoriv fasteners automation blind rivet nuts studs

Spin-pull tools can process a wide range of sizes and thread types of blind rivet nuts, including heavy-duty variants such as hexagonal rivet nuts. This makes them suitable for a wide range of materials and applications.

autoriv joining method spin pull spindle stroke blind rivet nut aluminum profile
Set blind rivet nuts in sheet metal

The spin-pull method ensures that the blind rivet nut is securely fastened and provides a durable joint that is vibration resistant and long-lasting even in demanding environments.

autoriv lightweight construction cross-section blind rivet nut and blind rivet screw in sheet metal
Blind rivet nuts and studs suitable for applications in soft materials such as plastics

The controlled pulling action prevents damage to the base material, making it ideal for use with thin or delicate materials.

Case Study

Optimized Blind Rivet Nut for Series Production

case study spin pull riveting optimized blind rivet nut for automated production

When integrating a conventional blind rivet nut into an MDS assembly system, the customer experienced performance issues and unreliable hole detection during the setting process. The previously used standard fastener from a competitor had reached its limits and could no longer meet the required specifications.

Engineering Enhancements for Reliable Performance

By refining the clamping area and optimizing the threading tip of the blind rivet nut, we ensured that the fastener met performance expectations and could be reliably set during the assembly process. 

In addition, an optimized supply chain strategy enabled a seamless transition to full production, ensuring stable, uninterrupted manufacturing. These targeted improvements eliminated previous challenges and enabled efficient, high-quality volume production.

Blind Rivet Nuts vs. Self-Clinching Nuts

blind rivet nut hexagonal fastener

Material Compatibility

Blind rivet nuts are suitable for a wide range of materials, including sensitive or non-deformable materials such as plastics and composites. Clinch nuts, on the other hand, are best suited to ductile materials such as steel, aluminum, copper or magnesium, as the base material must deform around the fastener to secure it.

autoriv joining process spin pull spindle stroke cross section clinch nut rivet nut spacer profile closed
Cross-section of a clinch nut and spacer combination in a closed profile

Strength and load capacity

Blind rivet nuts often fail to meet the strength requirements of the bolted joint. Clinch nuts, on the other hand, have a much higher torque and push-out strength because they are firmly bonded to the material. For this reason, clinch nuts can be used in combination with a spacer instead of blind rivet nuts, which is a much better solution for high strength structural joints.

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