Reliable fastening solutions for challenging applications

ProGrip is a range of threaded fastening solutions designed for applications where conventional fastening methods may be difficult or unsuitable. The range includes two main product types:

Rivet nuts -Threaded inserts that can be installed from one side of a material, making them particularly useful where access is restricted.

Rivet bushes - Press-secured threaded inserts that require access from both sides of the material, offering an alternative where reduced rear protrusion or a more compact design is needed.

Available in a variety of sizes, materials and body designs, ProGrip fasteners can accommodate different installation requirements. The range also includes manual, battery-powered and pneumatic installation tools, helping businesses select an appropriate system for their production needs.

One of the biggest advantages of ProGrip rivet nuts is that they can be installed from just one side of a material. This makes them particularly useful for hollow sections, tubes and enclosed structures where accessing the reverse side would be difficult. Where access is available from both sides, ProGrip rivet bushes offer an alternative. These are installed using press force to secure the insert into the material.

ProGrip can solve a host of typical fastening challenges:

1. Limited access during installation - Imagine working with a box section or enclosed metal assembly where accessing the reverse side is impractical. Traditional nuts and bolts may require access from both sides, creating difficulties during assembly. ProGrip rivet nuts address this challenge through one-sided installation, allowing a threaded connection to be created without needing to reach behind the material. This can make assembly more straightforward, particularly in restricted spaces.

2. Fastening into thin sheet metal - Thin-gauge materials can present challenges when creating secure threaded connections. There may be insufficient material thickness to accommodate a conventional tapped thread, while alternative fastening methods might introduce unnecessary complexity. ProGrip rivet nuts provide a full-depth internal thread within the insert, offering a practical solution for thin sheet materials.

Where access is available from both sides, ProGrip rivet bushes provide another option. These are inserted from the rear of the panel and secured by applying press force to peen the shank over.

3. Preventing fasteners from rotating - In applications involving higher torque, a fastener that rotates within its mounting hole can cause problems during assembly or maintenance. ProGrip offers several designs to help address this. Hexagonal body rivet nuts provide increased resistance to rotation, while splined versions are designed to grip securely within round holes. The right choice will depend on the material, hole geometry and forces involved.

4. Exposure to moisture and corrosive environments - Fasteners used outdoors or in challenging industrial environments may be exposed to moisture, chemicals and temperature variations. Over time, corrosion can affect their performance and make maintenance more difficult.

ProGrip stainless steel rivet nuts offer increased corrosion resistance compared with standard steel alternatives.

For applications where fluid ingress is a concern, closed-end rivet nuts provide additional protection by sealing the end of the threaded insert. However, additional sealing materials may be required where a completely watertight joint is needed.

5. Restricted installation space - Sometimes, even a relatively small fastener can take up more room than an assembly allows. ProGrip rivet bushes offer useful alternatives where space is limited. Standard rivet bushes have less rear protrusion than installed rivet nuts, while mini rivet bushes feature a smaller body diameter.

These options give engineers greater flexibility when designing compact assemblies.