A Practical Guide to Choosing Studs and Fasteners for Sheet Metal

Choosing the right attachment for a thin sheet influences the speed of production, as well as the finish and long-term reliability of the project. Here’s a practical guide to three trusted options you can rely on in production.

For assemblies that need to be removed or adjusted in service, standard or engineered threaded fasteners remain a reliable choice. They offer versatility across materials and joint types, and can be supplied in a variety of sizes, thread forms, and finishes to suit different operating environments.

Self-clinching studs press into a pre-punched hole and lock mechanically, creating a robust, low-profile fixing with no heat required. They’re ideal where you want a clean finish and minimal backside protrusion, as long as the sheet is ductile and meets the minimum thickness for the stud type.

CD studs enable rapid attachment on thin sheets with minimal heat and little to no mark-through on the visible face, making them useful for finished panels and consumer products. Surface preparation is important for consistency.

The right choice depends on the specifics of your design and production process. Consider the following:

• Material type and thickness – some methods require ductile material or a minimum thickness.

• Access during assembly – whether the joint can be reached from both sides.

• Load and performance – required torque-out, push-out, or tensile strength.

• Finish requirements – whether coatings must be maintained or heat must be avoided.

• Production equipment – available installation presses or welding systems.

By evaluating these factors early, you can select the most efficient attachment method, reduce rework, and ensure consistent performance in production.

Send your drawing or stack-up along with notes on volumes, materials, and environment. We’ll recommend the appropriate stud type, confirm feasibility and advise on installation so you can keep production moving smoothly

Learn more about our products and get expert advice from our Clevedon Fasteners team today.