Sheet metal fasteners, also called captive fasteners, are engineered to provide strong, permanent threads or studs in thin metal sheets. They eliminate the need for welding or nut-welding, which can introduce distortion or damage, especially in pre-finished surfaces. These fasteners attach mechanically, making them suitable for industries needing reliable, repeatable assembly.
PRODUCT TYPES
RIVETING TYPES
This method of capture involves a ‘shank’ which is passed through a pre-punched hole in the parent material and then riveted over on the reverse side. Since the shank of the fastener passes completely through, and does not involve deformation of the parent material this method is ideally suited to use in the thinner, harder grades of sheet metal.
CLINCHING TYPES
The knurled or hexagonal platform formed on the fastener is designed to displace the parent material into a groove formed below. The balance of the platform and groove volumes allows the deformation of the sheet to be confined to the immediate area of the fastener preventing the risk of marking on the sheet in general.
PRODUCT SELECTION GUIDE
PRODUCT INDEX
VARIANTS & USE CASES
| Fastener Variant | Description & Use Case |
|---|---|
| Anchor Rivet Bush (ARB / ARBSO) | Threaded bush with a serrated shank that rivets over for high retention. |
| MINARB / MINOFF | Miniature anchor rivet options designed for tighter spaces or thin sheets. |
| MINLOK | Self-locking version of MINARB, eliminating the need for additional locking components. |
| Self-Clinching Nuts | Embedded into sheet metal to provide a flush nut on one face. |
| Self-Clinching Studs / Stand-offs | Create threaded protrusions or spacing features in sheet metal. |
When to Use Sheet Metal Fasteners
Advantages / ideal cases:
- Provide removable bolts or nuts without loosening the fastener itself
- Enable assembly in thin sheet metals where welding or tapping is impractical
- Offer a flush finish for aesthetic or functional purposes
- Work well with pre-finished surfaces that cannot tolerate welding heat
Limitations / considerations:
- Sheet hardness, thickness, and material must be compatible
- Hole size tolerances are critical for correct installation
- Installation requires proper presses or clinching tools, not shock loading
Best Practices & Guidelines
- Select the correct type (riveting vs clinching) based on sheet thickness and hardness.
- Maintain accurate hole tolerances for maximum performance.
- Support the sheet properly to prevent distortion during installation.
- Use squeeze or pressing tools for secure attachment.
- Test pull-out and torque strength under service conditions.
- Refer to PSM’s technical resources for detailed specifications and limits.