Rivet Nut vs Pop Rivet: The Pros and Cons of Rivnut vs Blind Rivet
Table of Contents
When it comes to thin sheet joining, the choice between rivet nuts and pop rivets can significantly affect the final riveted joint. It is vital to understand the advantages and disadvantages of both options.
How Rivet Nuts and Pop Rivets Work
To understand the core differences between a Rivet Nut and a Pop Rivet, one must start with their structures and working principles. Both can achieve “blind installation”, but they are completely different in terms of force application, connection form, and structural purpose. The following content summarizes the key points that engineers pay the most attention to when selecting types, and explains them in combination with Rivmate’s testing experience.
The structure of a Pop Rivet consists of a body and a mandrel. It achieves connection through a simple and direct “stretching and expanding” method:
- When the riveting gun pulls the mandrel, the tail of the cap body is forced to expand outward, forming a stable back support.
- When the mandrel is pulled to the preset breaking position, it will break instantly and remain inside the cap body.
- At this moment, the rivet is shaped and forms a permanent, non-detachable mechanical connection.
This structure is highly suitable for thin plates, sheet metal and light equipment assembly, featuring stable strength, low cost and high efficiency. However, it does not provide threads, and thus is not applicable to structural components that require frequent disassembly and reassembly.
The structure of a Rivet Nut consists of a metal nut sleeve with pre-machined internal threads (such as M4, M5, UNC, etc.).
Its working principle is different from that of blind rivets and belongs to a “flanging locking” structure:
- The installation tool (Nutsert Gun) pulls the nut sleeve outward, forcing it to “flange” or “expand” at the back.
- The flange will tightly adhere to the back of the material, forming a solid metal bearing surface.
Rivet Nut is suitable for scenarios where direct tapping is not possible or the material is too thin to form threads, such as aluminum profiles, pipes, car bodies and electronic chassis.
Rivet Nut vs Pop Rivet: Performance Comparison
| Performance Aspect | Rivet Nut | Pop Rivet |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile / Shear Strength | High, but depends on material and wall thickness | Very high, structurally stronger |
| Threading Capability | ✔ Provides reusable internal threads | ✘ No threading |
| Waterproofing | Moderate | High; closed-end types can be fully sealed |
| Vibration Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Material Compatibility | Metals, plastics, tubing | Sheet metal, thin panels |
① Tensile and Shear Strength
- Rivet Nut
Strength depends on two points: material (aluminum, steel, stainless steel); wall thickness and flanging structure. Its tensile and shear performance is stable, but it is mostly used for medium-strength assembly. - Pop Rivet
The structure is more compact, and the force on the expansion area is more uniform. Especially for structural blind rivets (such as Monobolt), the tensile and shear strength is often 30–60% higher than that of Rivet Nut. Therefore, it is more suitable for permanent fixation and load connection.
② Threading Capability (Threading vs Non-Threading)
This is the most fundamental difference between the two.
- Rivet Nut: Offers standard internal threads (such as M4–M12), and can be re-tightened, suitable for scenarios requiring disassembly and maintenance.
- Pop Rivet: Does not provide threads, and is used for one-time, permanent structural connections. If the project requires threads, Pop Rivets are completely non-substitutable.
③ Waterproofing Performance
Rivet Nut
It does not have a sealing function by itself. If waterproofing is required, an additional EPDM gasket or a waterproof Rivet Nut should be added. The waterproofing level is usually lower than that of blind rivets.
Pop Rivet
Especially the closed-end type (Closed-End) and sealed type (Sealed) can achieve nearly 100% waterproofing, meeting the requirements for roofs, exterior walls, and outdoor equipment.
④ Vibration Resistance Performance
Rivet Nut
Locking is achieved through flanging or tensioning, and it performs well in general vibration environments. However, if no anti-loosening measures are taken for threaded connections, long-term vibration may cause slight loosening.
Pop Rivet
The mandrel expansion structure inherently endows it with stronger vibration resistance. The structural blind rivet has a mechanical lock inside, ensuring long-term stability under strong vibration conditions.
⑤ Material Compatibility
- Rivet Nut: It can be used on various materials such as metal, plastic, composite materials, and thin-walled tubes. It is particularly suitable for structures where threading is impossible.
- Pop Rivet: It is most suitable for sheet metal and thin plate structures, and works best when both materials are metal.
Pros and Cons: Rivet Nut vs Pop Rivet
In actual engineering selection, users usually focus on two points: Which one is more suitable for my material? and Is it convenient for future maintenance? Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of Rivet Nut and Pop Rivet is crucial for ensuring a reliable connection and reducing long-term costs.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Rivet Nuts
Advantages of Rivet Nut
- Capable of creating internal thread structure: After riveting is completed, standardized threaded holes can be provided, which are detachable and can be repeatedly maintained. They are suitable for components that need to be repeatedly assembled.
- Can be used for blind holes and closed profiles: In square tubes, round tubes, or closed profiles, the Rivet Nut can easily provide threads, which is a solution that cannot be achieved by welding nuts.
- Suitable for thin materials (0.3–6 mm): When the material is too thin and cannot be tapped, the Rivet Nut can provide a stable and reliable threaded bearing surface.
- Can replace welding nuts: No high-temperature operation is required, reducing the problem of heat affected zone, and also avoiding burning the coating or deformation.
Disadvantages of Rivet Nut
- Higher cost: Especially in mass production, the overall cost is significantly higher than that of ordinary blind rivets.
- Poor waterproofing ability: The structure itself is not sealed. If high waterproofing performance is required, additional gaskets or sealed products must be relied upon.
- Higher requirements for hole quality: If the hole diameter is too large, the flange will not be adequately stressed; if it is too small, installation will be difficult, affecting the concentricity of the thread.
Advantages of Pop Rivet
- Low cost and high value for money: Particularly suitable for mass production. The overall assembly cost is much lower than that of riveted nuts.
- Fast installation speed: No torque control required. Just break the core shaft to complete the connection. It is suitable for assembly lines and on-site construction.
- Excellent vibration and waterproof performance: The structural blind rivets can provide high seismic resistance; the closed-end blind rivets can achieve a nearly 100% sealing and waterproof effect.
- Suitable for extremely thin materials: It can still form a firm connection on metal sheets ranging from 0.2 to 0.5 mm. It is an advantage that cannot be replaced by threaded products.
Disadvantages of Pop Rivet
- Non-detachable: It forms a permanent connection. Disassembly requires damaging the component and is not suitable for structures that need frequent maintenance.
- No provision for threads: If threads are required, other fasteners or rivet nuts must be used instead.
- Poor maintainability: Once damage or loosening occurs, only re-drilling or replacement with a larger specification is possible, which is not conducive to long-term maintenance.
Where Rivet Nuts and Pop Rivets Are Used
In actual engineering projects, the choice between Rivet Nut and Pop Rivet depends mainly on the requirements of the specific scenario. Does the structure need to be waterproof? Does it require threads? Can the material support the screws? All these factors will significantly influence the final decision.
| Application Scenario | Recommended Fastener | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Sheet metal permanent joints | Pop Rivet | High strength, fast installation, good waterproof performance |
| Thin materials requiring threads | Rivet Nut | Allows repeated assembly and maintenance |
| Plastic or hollow tubing | Rivet Nut | Provides threading where tapping or screws cannot be used |
| Roofing or exterior cladding systems | Pop Rivet (Closed-End) | Excellent sealing, corrosion resistance, suitable for outdoor environments |
| Automotive interiors / electronic housings | Rivet Nut | Supports maintenance and prevents damage to housings |
Cost & Lifecycle Analysis
a. Pop Rivet: A typical representative of low-cost and long-life products
The advantages of Pop Rivet (blind rivets) are very clear:
- Low unit price, making it highly suitable for medium and large-scale batch production scenarios.
- Fast installation speed, saving labor costs.
- Reliable structure, with a permanent connection, requiring almost no maintenance.
- Can maintain long-term stability even in outdoor and vibrating environments, further extending service life.
Therefore, its cost advantage does not merely stem from “low unit price”, but also comes from the “structural benefits that do not require maintenance in the later stage”. The Rivmate test shows that standard blind rivets can achieve a maintenance-free period of 10 to 15 years in conventional mechanical structures.
b. Rivet Nut: Initial cost is high, but has excellent maintainability
The cost structure of Rivet Nut is different:
- The product cost is higher than that of blind rivets (depending on the material, such as steel, stainless steel, and aluminum).
- The cost of installation tools is slightly higher.
- However, its feature of repeatability in disassembly and assembly makes it more suitable for equipment and electronic enclosures that require maintenance.
If the structure needs to be disassembled and reassembled multiple times during its lifespan, or if parts need to be replaced or repaired, the benefits brought by Rivet Nut will significantly outweigh the initial investment.
Suitable industries: Automotive interiors, computer chassis equipment, electronic modules, serviceable devices.
Tools and Installation Guide
In the selection between Rivet Nut and Pop Rivet, apart from structural performance and cost, installation tools and process requirements also affect the final assembly quality. The issues that users usually care about typically include: What tools are needed? How to control the hole diameter? Are there any restrictions on material thickness? The following is a professional explanation based on the engineering practice of Rivmate.
Installation Tools for Rivet Nuts
The installation of Rivet Nut requires specialized equipment. The core task is to stretch the nut sleeve outward, creating a flange structure on the back. Common tools include:
- Manual Nutsert Tool (Manual Rivet Nut Tool) Suitable for maintenance, prototype production, and small-scale batch manufacturing, with simple control.
- Pneumatic Nutsert Gun (Pneumatic Rivet Nut Gun) Suitable for medium to large-scale assembly, it can enhance efficiency and the consistency of flanging.
- Hydraulic Nutsert Tool (Hydraulic Tool) Suitable for large-sized nuts or high-strength stainless steel rivet nuts, providing stable and high tensile strength.
Important Points to Note: Ensure that the stretching stroke is set correctly to avoid insufficient flanging or excessive deformation. The tolerance for the hole diameter is generally controlled within ±0.1 mm, which ensures that the nut flanging is evenly and securely attached.
Installation Tools for Pop Rivets
The installation of Pop Rivet (blind rivets) is relatively simple:
- Manual Riveting Gun (Hand Rivet Gun) Suitable for light industrial assembly and on-site construction.
- Electric Riveting Gun (Battery Riveter) Convenient, stable, and suitable for medium-scale assembly.
- Pneumatic Riveter (Air Riveting Gun) Suitable for structural blind rivets and large-diameter rivets, it has excellent tensile stability and higher strength.
Key Points to Note: The grip range must match the thickness of the material. The hole diameter usually needs to be 0.1–0.2 mm larger than the diameter of the rivet to ensure adequate expansion. In closed-type or waterproof rivets, keeping the hole clean and free of foreign objects can enhance the sealing performance.
Hole Size & Material Compatibility
Whether using Rivet Nut or Pop Rivet, the quality of the hole size and the matching of thickness are the key indicators that affect the reliability of the riveting.
Rivet Nut: Worth Noticing:
It is necessary to ensure that there are no burrs on the hole walls to guarantee the sealing fit of the flange.
For plastics or composite materials, it is recommended to add a backsheet or choose the Large Flange model.
Excessive hole diameter can lead to spin-out.
Pop Rivet Is Worth Noticing:
The holes need to be kept vertical and concentric to ensure uniform expansion.
In high-strength rivets, an incorrect hole diameter can cause the mandrel to break off incompletely.
The grip range must cover the actual thickness of the material; otherwise, it will not be able to lock properly.
Expert Recommendations from Rivmate
During the selection process of Rivet Nut and Pop Rivet, there is no universally applicable solution. The optimal choice always depends on the structural requirements, maintenance methods, material properties and usage environment.
① If the structure requires threads and needs to be disassembled for maintenance → Choose Rivet Nut
If your design requires that the components can be disassembled, replaced, and the internal parts can be repaired in the future, then Rivet Nut is far more valuable than ordinary blind rivets.
- It can provide stable internal threads.
- It supports repeated disassembly without damaging the parent material.
- It is suitable for thin metals, plastics, profiles and pipes.
- It can replace welding nuts and does not require high-temperature operations.
Typical industries: Home appliances, automotive interiors, electronic equipment, industrial control boxes.
② If the structure requires sealing, waterproofing, and vibration resistance → Choose Pop Rivet (Closed-End)
For outdoor structures, roof systems and equipment subjected to vibration, Pop Rivet is particularly advantageous, especially in terms of its closed type.
- Achieve nearly 100% sealing
- Strong vibration resistance, does not loosen over a long period
- Fast installation, high stability
- Suitable for metal sheets and outdoor projects
Typical applications: roof panels, exterior wall panels, enclosures, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) equipment.
③ If the application involves high load, strong vibration, and is critical for structural safety → Choose Monobolt (structural blind rivets)
When there are specific requirements for connection strength, such as in vehicle chassis, rail equipment or heavy machinery, Monobolt is the optimal choice.
- Built-in mechanical lock (Mandrel Lock)
- The tensile and shear strength is much higher than that of ordinary blind rivets
- It has stronger waterproof, vibration-proof and anti-corrosion capabilities
- It can replace some welding or bolt connections
Typical industries: automobiles, rail transportation, construction steel structures and heavy equipment.
④ If the project is cost-sensitive and involves a large number of assemblies → Choose the Pop Rivet option
Standard Pop Rivet is the “value king” in large-scale industrial assembly.
- Low unit price
- Easy for workers to master
- High assembly efficiency
- Low cost of supporting tools
Applicable to: sheet metal production, furniture, light industrial products, and daily maintenance.
Get the Right Fastener for Your Project
When choosing between Rivet Nut and Pop Rivet, there is no single “universal answer”. Each type of riveting method has its own optimal application scenarios. The key lies in: Understanding the structure, environment and maintenance requirements, and making the correct choice based on engineering standards.
Rivmate, as a professional supplier of riveting solutions, has been providing reliable fasteners for the construction, automotive, home appliance, electronic equipment and mechanical manufacturing industries for a long time. Our engineering team can provide the most reasonable selection suggestions based on your application requirements.
Receive more precise selection suggestions for your project：
Please feel free to contact the Rivmate engineering team to obtain samples, technical solutions and quotations.
📧 Product Inquiry: manufacture@world-rivet.com
🌐 Official Website: https://worldrivet.com/
Reference
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