WEBER-Technology

What you should know about inserting blind rivet nuts

What does setting blind rivet nuts mean

Setzvorgang Blindnietmutter SBM25 WEBER

Setting blind rivet nuts means inserting simple threads into a thin-walled object on one side. The shapes are round or hexagonal nuts. In contrast to the general term ‘blind riveting’, where non-detachable connections are produced, “setting blind rivet nuts ’ involves preparing a detachable screw connection.

In which areas are blind rivet nuts used?

Blind rivet nuts are primarily used in the automotive industry. Here, thin-walled materials are used in frame structures in car body construction, but also in battery production, in order to ensure high stability with low weight. One-sided accessibility requires the use of blind rivet nuts so that load-bearing threads can be created in these structures. The blind rivet nut thus creates the prerequisite for detachable connections in e-mobility.

 

Process of inserting blind rivet nuts

Blind rivet nuts are set in 4 phases.

Blind Rivet Nut Threading Positioning WEBER

Phase 1: Threading and positioning the blind rivet nuts

First, the blind rivet nuts are loaded as bulk material into a feeding system. Then, all the blind rivet nuts are separated. Now, each nut is individually blown through a tube into the setting system. When it arrives at the setting system, it is clamped into a small fixture and is ready for the next process step.

Blind Rivet Nut Feeding WEBER

Phase 2: Feeding into the part

During the threading of the nut, we detect damaged nuts on the thread and can reject them. Before inserting into the component, the rotational angle of hex nuts is aligned with the pre-drilled hole using a laser system. While the positioning of round nuts is not critical, hex nuts must be precisely aligned. The respective nut is then “positioned” in the pre-drilled hole.

 

Blind Rivet Nut Pull Back Deform WEBER

Phase 3: Retracting the threaded arbour & deforming the blind rivet nut

In the third phase, the blind rivet nut is deformed. For this, the threaded mandrel is retracted to a predefined position without rotation. As a result, the nut is tightened, deforms accordingly, and forms a so-called bulge that encloses the edge of the pre-drilled hole. At WEBER, the quality is reliably monitored, with both the pulling distance and the applied force being continuously controlled and recorded. Only predefined ranges are permitted.

 

Blind rivet nut threading WEBER

Phase 4: Removing the threaded arbour

Finally, the threaded arbour is removed. The process can start again. The next blind rivet nut can be fed already during the setting process.

Special features of the WEBER feeding system for blind rivet nuts

Blind rivets guide WEBER

The special feature of WEBER’s feeding technology for setting blind rivet nuts is the high output and fast cycle times. Thanks to our perfectly automated process, the setting head works continuously while the next blind rivet nut is fed. The advantage of WEBER’s setting technology over other systems lies in the precise alignment. Through the most accurate pre-definition, the setting system knows the correct positioning of the blind rivet nut and does not have to “search” for the pre-punched hole. Additionally, the WEBER setting unit operates with precise monitoring mechanisms. We check for thread damage during the setting process itself. This proactive approach prevents errors that other systems may detect only afterward, allowing us to automatically eject defective elements even before the setting process begins.

Structure of the WEBER setting unit

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More Information

Get information about the structure of the WEBER setting unit in the e-mobility application area.

Contact our expert.

Ingo Untch
Product manager

Mr. Untch is responsible for product management, including control and drive technology, as well as all WEBER setting systems. This includes insertion and press-in units, as well as the SBM blind rivet nut setting system. With his many years of experience as a developer of mechatronic systems and a quality management representative, he can draw on an extensive wealth of experience that enables him to competently oversee these products.

FAQ on blind rivets

What is the special feature of WEBER systems for the installation of hexagon nuts?

While other manufacturers turn the nut in their system until it is pulled into the pre-cut hole, WEBER focuses on precision installation. We define the precise position of the hole in advance so the blind rivet nut can be positioned correctly. The system does not have to “search” for the hole first.

SBM25 Laser Technology by WEBER

 

What is the setting direction for blind rivet nut?

Blind rivet nuts can be set in any direction: horizontally or vertically (can also be mounted on a robot). The settings are made in advance.

Which forces occur during the installation of blind rivet nuts?

The force that has to be applied to produce the bulge during blind rivet installation is up to 25 kN (= deformation force).

Which blind rivet nuts are usually installed?

Blind rivet nuts that can be combined with the WEBER system typically have the following parameters.

Sizes: M4 to M10

Head diameter: up to 20mm

Length: up to 30mm

Material: Stainless steel, steel, aluminium

Shapes: round, hexagon

Of course WEBER can also work with custom items on request.

What is the difference between round and hexagon nuts?

The difference between round and hexagon nuts is in the shape and function. Blind rivet nuts with hexagon shaft offer a higher level of reliability because they can withstand a higher torque.

What is the structure of blind rivet nut installation?

The installation unit is either stationary or mounted on a robot or gantry.

Cycle times. How long does that take?

The cycle time depends significantly on the size and shape of the blind rivet nut, as well as the length of the thread.

With the WEBER setting unit for blind rivet nuts, cycle times as short as 6 seconds can be reliably achieved.

 

 

WEBER Schraubautomaten

WEBER Schraubautomaten GmbH is a family-run and innovative company that attaches great importance to the sustainable design of the value chain. The result is high-quality products with maximum process reliability that make production processes more efficient. Your success is our success.