Self-clinching nut | A2 | WS 9310

If you are looking for a self-clinching nut that enables direct fastening and threading in thin sheet metal in demanding environments without rusting, the A2 stainless steel self-clinching nut is a reliable choice. Manufactured from A2 / AISI 304 stainless steel, it withstands moisture, moderate chemical exposure, and temperature fluctuations. The self-clinching nut is used where durability and corrosion resistance are important – especially in light industry, electrical cabinets, machine building, and outdoor environments.

AREA OF USE

The A2 self-clinching nut is intended for creating durable threads in thin sheet metal, metal panels, and enclosures in environments such as wet rooms, food production, and industrial facilities. The nut is pressed into a pre-drilled hole and achieves permanent anchoring thanks to its serrated collar. This makes the fastening both vibration-resistant and strong, without the need for additional nuts or loose fittings. Installation is performed quickly using a press tool or hydraulic press according to the hole dimensions in the specification. The product requires minimal maintenance and provides a reliable solution with a long service life.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Product type: Self-clinching nut
Standard: Non-standardized (art. no. WS 9310)
Quality: A2 / AISI 304
Material class: Not specified
Thread type: Metric
Surface treatment: Untreated (natural stainless steel)
Head shape: Round with serrated collar
Grip type: Not applicable

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

What is a self-clinching nut and how does it work when mounted in thin sheet metal?

A self-clinching nut (also known by brand names such as PEM nut) is a threaded fastener designed for permanent attachment in thin sheet metal. It is pressed into a punched or drilled hole using a hydraulic or pneumatic press:

• Cold flow of material: During pressing, the sheet metal flows into the nut's guide groove (undercut), which provides extremely strong resistance to pull-out forces (pull-out force).

• Torque resistance: The serration on the nut's collar bites into the sheet metal and prevents the nut from spinning when a screw is tightened (torque-out resistance).

• Flush finish: The back of the sheet metal remains completely smooth without protruding parts or weld spatter.

Why is stainless steel A2 (AISI 304) suitable for self-clinching nuts?

Stainless steel A2 (1.4301 / AISI 304) provides excellent protection against corrosion in humid indoor environments, electrical cabinets, outdoor installations, and light industrial applications. Since sheet metal structures are often exposed to condensation and changing temperatures, A2 steel prevents the thread from rusting fast or weakening.

Important during assembly: For the self-clinching nut to form and lock into the sheet, the sheet metal material must be softer than the nut itself (usually aluminum or softer stainless/galvanized sheet metal grades).

What is the advantage of self-clinching nuts compared to weld nuts or blind rivet nuts?

Self-clinching nuts offer three clear technical advantages in thin sheet metal processing:

1. No heat impact: Unlike welding, there is no warping, discoloration, or burn marks on the metal, which saves on post-processing.

2. Exact precision: The nut is placed with high dimensional accuracy in the pre-punched hole, which provides a perfect hole pattern for automated assembly.

3. Compact profile: Takes up less space laterally than a blind rivet nut and provides a cleaner finish than a traditional hex nut.