What is a rivet?
Rivets are ever so popular because they are a quick and easy fastener to join two or more pieces of material. A strong reliable option that provides a secure solution via a power rivet gun or a manual rivet-tool. Essentially a rivet is composed of two components, a metal tube (body) & pin (mandrel). The pin is normally longer than the tube and designed to be pulled up through the tube whilst enlarging it in the process. As the body expands it secures the material between the two ends. At a predetermined point, the pin used to pull up the body will break, and drop off.
There are numerous rivet types for virtually any application; from connecting your home’s guttering with general purpose open-end rivets. Rivets are available in a range of different metals including steel, stainless-steel grade 304 & aluminium, with some options in a combo of different materials like steel & aluminium.
Key benefits of a blind rivet is simple; they are a low-cost fast & easy to use fastener. Rivets work well for joining of many different types of material, including sheet metals, composites and so much more.
- One side assembly means quick installations, as access to the rear is not required.
- Highly resilient, forming a mechanically activated permanent joining solution.
- Easy to use air, cordless, and manual rivet-tools that requires minimal effort and training.
- Design flexibility, wide range of rivet types and materials to suit most applications.
- Easy inspection and maintenance, no expensive equipment for quality control.
Types of Rivets:
When using rivets its crucial to choose the right type of rivet for the project. These can vary from aluminium/steel, all aluminium, aluminium/steel Multi-Grip, aluminium/steel sealed, Steel/steel or Stainless/Stainless.
Head styles include:
- Dome
- Countersunk
- Large flange
Common Applications for Rivets:
Rivets can fasten timber, metals and even plastics in a blind setting on a range of projects. Rivets offer a better, longer lasting alternative by attaching metal sheets together effectively. Common applications include:
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Hinges
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Metal roofing
- Sheetmetal and/or steel fabrication
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Manufacturing of boats, vehicles etc where one side of a workplace is usually inaccessible
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Gutters and downpipes
How to use a rivet:
The first step in rivet installation is to drill a hole in the material where you need to create a joint. This hole should fit the size of the rivet body snuggly with no gapping for proper installation. To secure the rivet you will need an installation tool. Either a manual rivet tool or a gun will work perfectly. Place mandrel in the hole of the tool and the handle (or trigger) depending on if you are using a manual tool or battery/pneumatic installation tool and pull until the mandrel snaps.
Suitable materials for a rivet:
Choosing the right material for your rivet is crucial for a secure and durable connection. Rivets are versatile fasteners that can be used with various materials, providing strength and reliability. The suitable materials for a rivet include:
a. Metals:
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Steel: Ideal for heavy-duty applications and provides robust connections.
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Stainless Steel (Grade 304): Resistant to corrosion, suitable for environments with moisture.
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Aluminium: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, perfect for applications where weight is a consideration.
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Combination Materials (Steel & Aluminium): Offers a balance of strength and reduced weight.
b. Composites:
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Aluminium/Steel Multi-Grip: Versatile for joining materials of different thicknesses.
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Aluminium/Steel Sealed: Provides a sealed joint, preventing moisture ingress.
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Stainless/Stainless: Corrosion-resistant and suitable for applications demanding high durability.
Remember, the choice of material depends on the specific requirements of your project, such as environmental conditions, load-bearing capacity, and the type of materials being joined.
Who should use a rivet?
Rivets are a versatile fastening solution suitable for a wide range of industries and applications. Various professionals and trades benefit from using rivets in their projects. Here's a list of those who should consider using rivets:
a. Construction Professionals:
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Builders: For fastening metal roofing, sheet metal, and steel fabrication.
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Manufacturers: Used in the production of boats, vehicles, and other manufacturing processes.
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Roofers: Ideal for attaching gutters, downpipes, and other roofing components.
b. DIY Enthusiasts:
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Home Improvement: Perfect for DIY projects, including attaching hinges and metal sheets.
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Woodworkers: Effective in joining timber and creating lasting connections.
c. Automotive and Marine Industries:
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Vehicle Manufacturers: Utilized in assembling vehicle components.
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Boat Builders: Essential for constructing and repairing boats due to their corrosion-resistant options.
d. Professionals in Inaccessible Spaces:
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Projects with Limited Access: Since rivets offer one-sided assembly, they are perfect for applications in areas that are hard to reach.
e. General Fabrication:
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Sheet Metal Fabricators: Commonly used for joining metal sheets in various applications.
In conclusion, rivets stand out as a reliable and cost-effective solution for fastening and joining materials. Their versatility, ease of use, and suitability for various materials make them a preferred choice across industries. Whether you are a professional in construction, manufacturing, or a DIY enthusiast, rivets offer a dependable means of creating strong and lasting connections. Consider the specific needs of your project and choose the right type of rivet and material to ensure a secure and durable result. Embrace the simplicity and effectiveness of rivets for your fastening needs.
