Spot welding is a common resistance technique to weld two or more metal sheets. Spot welding is primarily achieved by applying pressure and electric current to the spot-weld area. The metal’s internal resistance to the electric current generates the required heat. Spot welding gets its namesake due to the tiny dot the weld creates, which looks like a spot.
Weld nuts are often used in tandem within the spot welding process to provide high-strength fastening capabilities in restricted or limited space areas.
When is Spot Welding Used?
Due to the quickness of a spot weld application, the spot welding process is often used within the automobile manufacturing industry. A typical vehicle is manufactured with over 1,000 spot welds, so it is one of the most used manufacturing processes in the auto industry.
Spot welding is also used to join electricity-conducting sheet metal and wire meshes. Resistance spot welding is also used in aerospace, rail, manufacturing, electronics, construction, battery, and others. Like the automobile manufacturing industry, spot welding robots are regularly used to produce most spot welds.
Spot Welding Advantages & Disadvantages
There are several advantages and disadvantages associated with spot welding, both of which are described below:
Advantages
- High energy delivery to a concentrated spot
- Quality welds for most conductive metal
- Simple to perform
- Fast and effective
- Does not burn through
- Various electrode options
- Dissipates heat away from the weld
- Delivers controlled and repeatable welds
- Highly efficient welding current
Disadvantages
- Both sides need to be accessible
- Can harden the material around the weld, which can lead to cracking
- Can affect the chemical and physical properties of the workpiece metal
- Corrosion resistance may be compromised
- Voltage fluctuations may influence spot weld quality
- May require frequent repairs
What is Nut Spot Welding?
One of the direct applications of spot welding is known as nut spot welding. Nut spot welding occurs when fastening nuts are joined onto metal parts. Nut welding refers to the projection welding process that welds threaded nuts onto a metal object. A nut welding is a projection weld because the nut usually has a partial or complete ring projection, or the corner edges of the nut are formed into projections. A nut spot welding is a process in which a nut is attached to sheet metal by applying the resistance spot welding technique.
What are Spot Weld Nuts?
Tab Spot Weld Nuts are a good choice when considering space limitations. Tab weld nuts are specifically designed to be spot welded onto flat applications. These types of weld nuts are also manufactured with an optional locating boss around their threads, which assists in locating the pilot hole. Tab weld nuts feature an optimum welding tab that will accommodate a variety of electrode sizes and will allow the use of standard equipment used in a standard production/fabrication environment.
Choosing the Right Tab Spot Weld Nut
Tab spot weld nuts are available in several options. So, which is suitable for your application? The features of each option will provide insight into which will be best suited for your application.
Single Tab Spot Weld Nuts
Single tab spot weld nuts combine exceptional strength with the versatility of use. Its robust design and construction ensure that the resulting weld will be strong and durable. It is an excellent choice for products or applications that require a welded fastener within a limited space.
Double Tab Spot Weld Nuts
Double tab spot weld nuts are equipped with a self-locating pilot to assist with initial thread engagement. The dual tabs are positioned to enable the weld nut to be used as a corner bridge and in recessed areas. This Weld Nut is production-friendly, and its use can significantly reduce overall fastener-assembly costs.
Twin Pilot Spot Weld Nuts
Twin pilot spot weld nuts are ideal for applications that require a weld nut equipped with a pair of equally dimensioned tapped holes. It combines cost-effectiveness with the flexibility of use and can be used in almost any production environment.
Single Tab Weld Nut with Target
The
Single weld tab nuts with targets’ recessed electrode guide helps to facilitate welding to thin materials. It is ideal for use when a self-locating spot-weld nut is needed. This weld nut can be used in restricted areas such as corners, channels, and other confined spaces.
Selecting the Best Spot Weld Nut Material for Your Application
Spot weld nuts are available in several material options to serve your specific application requirements. The material that you choose should fit the specifications of your project. Tab spot weld nuts are generally available in either C1010 high-welding quality, low carbon steel or 18-8 stainless steel with a passivated finish.
Monroe-JHP Fasteners Can Help with Your Spot Weld Nut Needs
Have a question on which type of spot weld nut is best for your application? Monrow-JHP Fasteners offers expert consultation on spot weld nut industrial fasteners. If you are unsure which type of weld nut would best serve your needs, we can help guide you in the right direction.
Contact us or call us at
800-783-0910 to speak with an expert today.
