Electro Hardware ECLS-0518-2 Clinch Nut 5/16-18 Ss 5-pack

Product Description

The ELECTRO HARDWARE ECLS-0518-2 is a round head clinch captive nut designed for permanent, flush installation into thin sheet metal panels. With a 5/16-18 thread size, this clinch nut is pressed into a pre-drilled mounting hole, displacing parent material to lock in place without additional fasteners or adhesives. The head diameter measures 0.5 inches, the head height is 0.23 inches, and the required mounting hole diameter is 0.413 inches. Constructed from 18-8 stainless steel with a passivated finish, this hardware provides corrosion resistance in demanding environments. Sold in a pack of 5, it suits applications where a reliable threaded insert is needed in light-gauge sheet metal assemblies.

This clinch captive nut is suited for use in enclosures, control panels, HVAC equipment cabinets, electrical junction boxes, and similar sheet metal fabrications where a minimum panel thickness of 0.0909 inches is present. Installation professionals working in HVAC, electrical, and light industrial fabrication will encounter this hardware as a standard threaded-insert solution for panels that cannot accommodate a traditional nut on the blind side. It is appropriate for both OEM assembly and field repair work where stripped or missing threads need restoration in thin-gauge material.

Key Features

• 5/16-18 unified coarse thread for broad fastener compatibility
• Round head profile with 0.5-inch head diameter provides a wide bearing surface
• Minimum panel thickness of 0.0909 inches makes it suitable for light-gauge sheet metal
• 18-8 stainless steel construction with passivated finish for corrosion resistance
• Body diameter of 0.412 inches fits a 0.413-inch mounting hole for a secure press-fit installation
• Packed in quantities of 5 to support small-batch assembly and service work

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style clinch captive nut replacement for light-gauge sheet metal panels with a minimum thickness of 0.0909 inches and a 0.413-inch mounting hole diameter, suitable for 5/16-18 threaded fastener applications.

Installation Notes

Clinch nuts are installed by a licensed or experienced sheet metal fabricator using a press tool or arbor press that applies controlled force to seat the nut flush into the prepared mounting hole. Ensure the panel is clean and the hole diameter matches the 0.413-inch specification before pressing. Do not attempt installation by hammer alone, as uneven force can distort the nut or surrounding panel material. Verify panel thickness meets the 0.0909-inch minimum to ensure proper material displacement and thread retention.