Clinch bolts, also called self-clinching studs or press-in studs, are pressed into a punched hole in sheet metal to give a permanent external thread. The sheet metal flows into a groove under the head, locking the stud so it cannot turn or push out, with no welding needed.
Linkworld supplies clinch bolts from M3 to M8 in carbon steel, alloy steel and stainless steel for sheet metal fabricators, enclosure makers and OEM buyers. Thread size, length, head and finish can be made to your drawing or sample, and we pack in bulk cartons or in your own branded packs.
Clinch Bolt Specifications
| Specification | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Product | Clinch bolt / self-clinching stud / press-in stud |
| Thread sizes | M3, M4, M5, M6 and M8 |
| Material | Carbon steel, alloy steel or stainless steel |
| Finish | Zinc plated for steel; plain for stainless |
| Head | Flush head or to drawing |
| Installation | Pressed into a punched or drilled hole in sheet metal |
| Packing | Bulk cartons, own-brand boxes and small packs |
Other sizes and finishes can be made to drawing or sample.
Where Clinch Bolts Are Used
- Electrical enclosures mounting points inside cabinets and panels
- Server racks and cases fixing points in thin sheet
- Appliances and machinery panel and cover fixings
- Automotive and trailer parts studs in sheet metal brackets
Choosing Clinch Bolts
- Sheet thickness: each stud needs a minimum sheet thickness to clinch properly. Tell us the sheet thickness.
- Sheet hardness: the stud must be harder than the sheet. Stainless sheet needs stainless studs made for it.
- Hole size: the mounting hole must match the stud. Give the hole size on your drawing.
- Material: zinc plated steel for general use, stainless steel for corrosive or food areas.
Common Purchasing Mistakes
Ignoring sheet thickness. A stud that is too long in the shank for thin sheet will not clinch properly.
Wrong hole size. An oversized hole lets the stud spin. Match the hole to the stud.
Using steel studs in stainless sheet. Choose studs made for stainless sheet.
Mixing lengths under one code. Give each thread size and length its own code.
What to Send with Your Enquiry
| Item | What to tell us |
|---|---|
| Size | Thread size and length |
| Sheet | Sheet material, thickness and hole size |
| Material | Carbon, alloy or stainless steel |
| Finish | Zinc plated or plain |
| Quantity | Quantity for each size |
| Packing | Bulk carton or small pack |
| Destination | Destination port |
Packing and Supply for Distributors
We pack clinch bolts in bulk cartons for trade distribution, or in your own branded boxes, buckets and small packs for retail. Each size can carry its own label. For customers who plan several deliveries through the year, we offer free warehouse storage and staged shipments.
Work With Linkworld
Linkworld has more than 20 years of fastener export experience and runs its own cold heading workshop. Our own QC team checks thread, head, knurl and coating in our inspection room before every shipment. We make clinch studs to drawing or sample, so special lengths, heads and threads are welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a clinch bolt?
It is a threaded stud that is pressed into sheet metal and locked in place by the metal flowing around it, giving a permanent thread.
What sizes of self-clinching studs do you supply?
M3 to M8 in a range of lengths. Other sizes can be made to drawing.
Do clinch bolts need welding?
No. They are pressed in with a press, which is why they are used in thin sheet and painted panels.
Can clinch bolts be used in stainless steel sheet?
Yes, with studs made for stainless sheet. Tell us the sheet material when you enquire.
Can you make clinch studs to our drawing?
Yes. Send the drawing or sample with thread size, length and sheet details.
Looking for clinch bolts to your own drawing?
Send the sizes, sheet details, quantity and packing you need through the enquiry form below, and our team will reply with the options that fit your range.
Send an Enquiry
Send a drawing, sample or clear reference photo. Add the quantity and application if available, and we can start from the information you already have.