Clip Nuts
Thin sheet metal assemblies cannot hold a standard nut in place during installation, and a loose lock washer only adds another part that can back out under vibration. Clip nuts for aerospace solve both problems in a single piece of hardware. The clip grips the sheet metal edge before the bolt ever goes in, then acts as its own lock washer once torque is applied. FDH Aero stocks certified clip nuts across dozens of part numbers, all fully traceable and ready to ship to commercial, defense, and business aviation programs.
What Is a Clip Nut?
A clip nut, also called a speed nut, tinnerman nut, or sheet metal nut, is a spring steel fastener that clips directly onto the edge of thin sheet metal or into a pre-drilled hole. Unlike a standard nut, it does not need to be held in place by hand while the mating bolt is threaded in. The spring action of the clip does that job, positioning the threaded section so a technician can drive the screw home with one hand free for the panel or bracket being secured.
Because the clip itself provides spring tension against the sheet metal, a clip nut also functions as its own lock washer. That combination, fastener plus lock washer in one part, is why clip nuts are standard hardware anywhere weight and part count matter, which is most of an airframe.
Features of Aerospace Clip Nuts
- Self-locking spring steel construction that resists vibration loosening without a separate lock washer
- Pre-positions on the sheet metal edge or hole before the bolt is installed, so one technician can complete the join
- Low profile and low mass, which matters on weight-sensitive airframe structures
- Rated for specific sheet thickness ranges, so the clip seats tightly against the panel it is designed for
- Manufactured to aerospace hardware standards, with material certifications and full lot traceability
Applications
Clip nuts for aerospace are used wherever a bolt needs to be secured into thin gauge sheet metal without access to the back side of the panel. Common applications include:
- Access panels and inspection doors on the fuselage and wing
- Interior cabin structures, including sidewalls, overhead bins, and floor panels
- Avionics bay covers and electronic equipment racks
- Engine cowlings and nacelle components
- Ducting, brackets, and clamps throughout the airframe
- Electrical bonding straps and ground connections
Clip Nut Models Available at FDH Aero
FDH Aero carries clip nuts across a wide range of thread sizes, clip styles, and mounting configurations, including U-type and flat-type designs built to sheet thicknesses from 0.020 inch up to 0.250 inch. Current part numbers in stock include:
| 1105700 | 1127008-3 | 1142723 | 1155700 |
| 130175-6P130 | 130177-5 | 13060001 | 13060002 |
| 13080000-2 | 13080009-1 | 13080009-2 | 13080009-3 |
| 13080009-4 | 13100000-1 | 13100000-2 | 13100000-3 |
| 13100000-5 | 13100011 | 13100019 | 3D0100-4ES |
| 3D0100-6AS | BACG20X2C | NSA5066-04-1 | RM52LHA4972-10-82 |
| ST3M472F5A240M |
Every part number above ships with material certifications and a certificate of conformance. If a specific model is not listed, our hardware team can source it through our supplier network and confirm cross-reference part numbers from other manufacturers.
FDH Aero: Your Distributor for Certified Clip Nuts
FDH Aero is an authorized distributor for certified clip nuts, working directly with the premier aerospace fastener manufacturers to keep traceable inventory in stock and ready to move. Every clip nut we sell comes with full documentation, from raw material certs to conformance paperwork, so your quality team never has to chase paperwork after the fact. Clip nuts are one part of a much wider hardware catalog, and they sit alongside the rest of our special hardware offering, so procurement teams can source clip nuts and the other fasteners on their BOM from a single distributor.
That approach is backed by a formal quality program covering supplier qualification, incoming inspection, and lot traceability, which is what makes FDH Aero a distributor for certified clip nuts that programs across commercial, defense, space, and business aviation trust for repeat orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a clip nut?
A clip nut is a spring steel fastener that clips onto thin sheet metal and threads a bolt into place, acting as both the nut and the lock washer for the joint. It is also known as a speed nut, tinnerman nut, or sheet metal nut.
What is the difference between a clip nut and a speed nut?
Clip nut and speed nut refer to the same style of fastener. The names are used interchangeably across the aerospace hardware industry, along with tinnerman nut and sheet metal nut.
What sheet metal thickness do clip nuts fit?
It depends on the model. FDH Aero stocks clip nuts rated for sheet thicknesses from 0.020 inch up to 0.250 inch, so the right part number is chosen based on the panel or bracket it will secure.
Are clip nuts reusable in Aerospace?
Yes, clip nuts can be reused in aerospace applications, but it’s not automatic. FAR (Federal Aviation Regulations) guidelines allow reuse only if the nut still meets specific performance standards. The key factor is simple: as long as the locking feature still works properly, the clip nut can be reused. If it doesn’t, it needs to be replaced.
How do I find the right clip nut for my program?
Start with the thread size, clip style, and sheet thickness your drawing calls out, then match it against the part numbers FDH Aero has in stock. Our hardware team can also cross-reference an existing part number or NSA, BAC, or MS designation to confirm the correct replacement. Contact FDH Aero to request a quote or check current lead times on any clip nut model.
