Axial fan inserts

[veedub565]

I'm replacing an axial fan which has threaded inserts fitted for mounting it. I can't find a suitable replacement with the same threaded insert fitted. Yes I know I could put a nut the other side instead, but the location of the fan in the equipment chassis makes this very tricky to do.

I spoke to Orion fans who confirmed this is an OEM option with MOQ of 500. Obviously I'm not going to do that.

Anyone know if it's possible to buy these inserts separately ?

[Someone]

TIL rivnut ?

[veedub565]

Yess, thanks that's the ones

[veedub565]

or even a threaded rivet bush

[themadhippy]

. Yes I know I could put a nut the other side instead, but the location of the fan in the equipment chassis makes this very tricky to do.

glue the nuts to the fan before fitting the fan

[Gyro]

or even a threaded rivet bush

Watch out for any kind of rivet nut/bush, you're liable to split the plastic.

[TERRA Operative]

I'd look for an aluminium rivnut so it requires less force to set, and make sure the crush area is not inside the flange on the fan when inserted.
Many rivnuts are designed for sheet metal, so the crush area is located accordingly.

[veedub565]

I actually managed to reuse the old ones in the end. I bashed them out with a drift, and used a vice to press them into the new fan. Bit of a faff but worked ok.

Fan has a metal chassis so no plastic to split.