Threading sheet metal.
Tapped vs PEM.
Threaded sheet.
Threads in sheet metal. Tapping thin sheet difficult. PEM hardware standard. Threaded inserts for thicker stock.
Key principles.
3× thread depth
Sheet thickness ≥ 3× thread pitch for tapping.
Pre-installed
PEM nuts, studs pre-installed in sheet metal.
Sheet screws
Self-tapping screws form threads in sheet during install.
Production
Welded nuts for production volumes.
Reinforced
Helicoil inserts in tapped sheet for reinforcement.
Solid mounting
Rivet nuts (Riv-Nuts) for fastening to thin sheet.
FAQ
When does sheet need PEM hardware?
Sheet < 3× thread pitch — tapping inadequate. PEM standard solution.
PEM installation?
Pre-installed by us during fabrication. Or installed by customer post-fabrication.
Tapping in thicker sheet?
Sheet ≥ 3 mm: tap directly. Sheet 1-3 mm: PEM or rivet nuts. Sheet < 1 mm: PEM only.
Rivet nut vs PEM?
PEM cleaner, more reliable. Rivet nut field-installable, less expensive.
Standard threads?
M3-M10 metric most common. UNC/UNF inch standards. Specify per design.
Cost?
PEM hardware $0.10-0.50 per insert. Tapping similar cost. Welded nuts cheap at production.
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