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What is the Grip Length of a Rivet?

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One of the common problems when choosing or installing rivets is “what is the grip length of a rivet”. The grip length refers to the total thickness of the material that the rivet can firmly grip when fixed. It directly determines whether the rivet can be formed correctly and whether the connection point has sufficient strength. If the grip length is too short, the rivet cannot fully expand, which may lead to loosening; if it is too long, the rivet may deform unevenly, reducing the structural reliability. Therefore, correctly understanding the grip length is a crucial step in ensuring the quality of riveting.

However, many users often confuse grip length with the total length of the rivets, resulting in incorrect selection or installation. This is a parameter that is frequently misunderstood but is of crucial importance. This article will deeply analyze the concept of grip length, explain its relationship with the material thickness and the diameter of the rivets, and provide practical selection methods.

Definition of Grip Length

In the application of rivets, Grip Length (the thickness range of the material that the rivet can secure) refers to the range of material stacking that the rivet can firmly hold. In other words, it represents the total thickness of the material that the rivet can effectively grip and keep firmly in place after installation. For example, if the combined thickness of two plates is 5mm, then the selected rivet’s grip length must cover this thickness in order to form a qualified rivet connection.

It is particularly important to note that Grip Length ≠ Rivet Length (total length of the rivet).

  • Rivet Length refers to the complete length of the rivet from its head to its tail.
  • Grip Length is only related to the thickness of the material that can be clamped and does not include the deformed part at the tail after expansion.

Many beginners often mistakenly take the total length of the rivet as the clamping thickness, which leads to incorrect selection and affects the connection strength. The correct approach is: First calculate the thickness of the material stack, then select the type based on the grip length, and finally confirm whether the total length of the rivet matches the installation requirements.

👉 The figure below illustrates the position of Grip Length (a cross-sectional view of the head, shaft, and expansion zone):

Grip Length vs Rivet Length
  • Head of the rivet: Exposed, serving a fixing function.
  • Grip Length: The thickness range of the material stack.
  • Bulging area at the tail: Deforms during installation and is used for locking the material.

Why Grip Length Matters

In the application of rivets, the Grip Length directly determines the strength and reliability of the connection. If the grip length is too short, the rivet cannot fully grip the material, and the connection point is prone to loosening or even detachment. On the contrary, if the grip length is too long, the tail end may not expand adequately, and there may be situations such as rotation, slippage, or uneven deformation.

Installation stability also depends on the correct grip length. Only when the clamping length matches the thickness of the material can the rivet form uniform and stable deformation during installation. Either too short or too long will increase the difficulty of installation and even result in the failure of the rivet.

Types of Multi Grip Blind Rivets

From the perspective of cost efficiency, choosing the wrong grip length can lead to rework, material waste, and potential failure costs. In large-scale production or engineering projects, such losses can escalate into significant economic burdens. According to industry data, improper selection of fasteners can increase the rework rate by 10% – 15%, directly increasing manufacturing and maintenance costs.

More importantly, in industries with high reliability such as construction, transportation, and aviation, the standards are extremely strict. For instance, the US aviation standard NAS, the US industrial fastener standard IFI, and the international standard ISO all clearly stipulate that the rivets must be correctly selected based on the grip length. These standards not only ensure the connection strength but also guarantee safety and long-term durability.

How to Measure and Choose the Correct Grip Length

Choosing the correct grip length is the first step in ensuring the quality of rivet connections. Here are the recommended steps:

Use a caliper or grip gauge to measure the thickness of all the materials that need to be tightened. This should include the gap, tolerance, surface coating, and thickness of the gasket. Ignoring these details will result in a shorter grip length, thereby causing installation problems.

Step 2: Refer to the manufacturer's Grip Range chart

Most rivet manufacturers (such as Rivmate) will provide a Grip Range chart. Just compare the total thickness of the material with the chart to find the appropriate grip length range. Rivmate also offers its own Grip Chart, which can be used as a reference tool to quickly confirm the matching model.

Step 3: Recommended Nail Length

Once the grip length is determined, the corresponding total length of the rivet (rivet length) can be recommended by the chart or the selection software. Usually, the total length of the rivet = grip length + an appropriate allowance, which is used for the tail to be expanded and shaped.

Common Errors to Avoid:

  • Only the thickness of the bare material was measured, without including the paint, anodized layer or adhesive.
  • The additional layers such as gaskets and seals were ignored.
  • The selection was made solely based on experience, without referring to the grip chart or industry standards.

Recommended Tools:

  • Grip Gauge (Clamping Length Measuring Tool): The most commonly used specialized tool, which can directly display the grip length.
  • Digital Caliper: Suitable for quickly measuring the thickness of material stacks.
  • Selection Software or Mobile Application: Some manufacturers provide digital tools that can automatically recommend the appropriate nail type based on the input thickness.

By following the above methods, users can not only avoid selection errors but also improve installation efficiency and ensure long-term stability and reliability of the connection.

Grip Length vs. Grip Range

What Are Black Anodized Pop Rivets and Their Uses

In the selection of rivets, Grip Length and Grip Range are often confused with each other, but they have different meanings.

  • Grip Length: This refers to the specific material thickness that the rivet can grip. It is a fixed point value used to determine whether the rivet can match a particular thickness.
  • Grip Range: This indicates the thickness range covered by a certain type of rivet. Rivets of the same model can be applicable to various material thicknesses, as long as they fall within this range, installation can ensure reliability.

For example: The Grip Range of a certain type of rivet is marked as 0.062″—0.125″(1.6—3.2mm). This means that this rivet can be used for material combinations with a total thickness ranging from 1.6mm to 3.2mm. Users only need to confirm that the measured total thickness falls within this range, and then they can be assured to use it.

Correct understanding of these two terms can prevent errors in procurement caused by confusion. For instance, if one only focuses on the point value of grip length but ignores the grip range, one might select a model that lacks adaptability and tolerance margin, thereby increasing the risk of assembly.

Remember: Grip Length is a single point, while Grip Range is an interval. In practical applications, Grip Range is more commonly found in selection tables and product catalogs, facilitating users to quickly match the material thickness.

Case Studies

Case 1: Incorrect Choice of Grip Resulted in Re-work

A certain transportation equipment manufacturer selected the components based solely on the total length of the rivets, without taking into account the actual grip length. As a result, some rivets failed to fully expand, causing loosening and rotation problems. Eventually, over 30% of the rivets required rework, directly resulting in delays in work time and material waste. This case clearly demonstrates that ignoring grip length can seriously affect assembly quality and production efficiency.

Case 2: Selecting the Right Model Enhances Efficiency

Another customer used the “Grip Range” chart provided by Rivmate for component assembly in aviation. By accurately measuring the material thickness and selecting the appropriate grip length, the success rate of assembly was increased to 98%. The rework rate significantly decreased, and the overall assembly efficiency improved by approximately 15%. Not only did this save labor costs, but it also reduced inventory pressure.

Case 3: Industry Application Feedback

  • Aerospace sector: Customer feedback indicates that the correct selection of grip length can effectively meet the NAS and ISO standards, avoiding potential safety hazards caused by the failure of fasteners.
  • Transportation industry: In the manufacturing of railway carriages, Rivmate rivets, due to their high grip length matching degree, have increased assembly efficiency by 12% and significantly reduced maintenance frequency.
  • Furniture manufacturing: Customer reports show that after adopting the recommended grip length, the connection between wood and metal parts becomes more stable, reducing the rate of after-sales maintenance.

These cases demonstrate that: The correct selection of Grip Length is not only a technical issue, but also a key aspect of quality and cost management. Through scientific measurement and reasonable selection, enterprises can achieve the best balance among safety, efficiency and economic benefits.

FAQs

Purchasing cost of zinc plated blind rivets

Q1: What if the material thickness falls between the two Grip Lengths?

A: Always choose the rivet model whose material thickness falls within the Grip Range. If the thickness is exactly at the critical value, it is preferable to select the one with a grip range that is closer to the actual value rather than relying on a single grip length point value. This ensures that the tail expansion is sufficient and the connection is stable.

Q2: Can we use rivets with a longer Grip Length?

A: It is not recommended. When the Grip Length is too long, the tail end of the rivet cannot fully extend, which may result in rotation, loosening or insufficient connection strength. Industry standards (such as NAS, IFI) clearly stipulate that the rivet must match the material thickness to ensure installation quality.

Q3: Does Grip Length Affect Shear/Compression Strength?

A: Yes. Incorrect grip length will prevent the rivet from achieving the ideal expansion form, thereby reducing the shear strength and tensile strength. For instance, when the grip length is too short, the bearing capacity of the connection point is insufficient; when it is too long, the expansion is incomplete and the strength also decreases. A correct grip length can ensure that the strength is close to the design value of the rivet.

Q4: Does the thickness of the coating need to be calculated separately?

A: Required. Any additional thickness – including coatings, anodizing, sealants or gaskets – should be included in the total material thickness. If this part is ignored, the actual grip length will be shorter, causing the rivets to fail to form correctly. Especially in the aviation and transportation industries, the standard requires that the coating thickness must be precisely considered to ensure long-term reliability.

Rivmate Expert Recommendations

Before the formal riveting process, Rivmate advises users to ensure the following three key parameters:

Types of Blind Rivets
  1. Material Thickness: Accurately measure the total thickness, including the coating, gap, and washer.
  2. Material Type: Different materials (aluminum, steel, stainless steel) have different requirements for the expansion form and strength of the rivets.
  3. Structural Strength Requirements: Select the appropriate shear and tensile strength based on the application scenario to ensure compliance with industry standards.

Rivmate not only offers products, but also provides technical support and selection assistance to customers. Through the Grip Range chart, selection software and consultation with engineers, customers can quickly find the optimal rivet solution, avoiding rework and cost waste caused by incorrect selection.

Meanwhile, Rivmate has developed bolting solutions for multiple industries, including aviation, transportation, furniture, and construction. We can offer:

  • Online Selection Tool: Just input the material thickness and type, and it will automatically recommend the appropriate model.
  • One-on-One Technical Support: A team of professional engineers will assist you in resolving installation issues.
  • Customer Exclusive Channel: Quick connection for sample application and large-scale procurement demands.

Through scientific measurement and professional support, Rivmate helps customers achieve the optimal balance between safety, efficiency and cost control.

Get the Right Grip, Every Time – Start with Rivmate

Rivmate Rivet Factory in Jiangsu, China

In the application of rivets, Grip Length is a key parameter that ensures the strength and reliability of the connection. Incorrect selection can lead to assembly failures, rework, and additional costs, while correct selection can significantly improve installation efficiency and structural durability. Whether in aviation, transportation, furniture, or construction industries, having a correct understanding and application of grip length is a prerequisite for achieving high-quality assembly.

Rivmate invites you to learn more:

Take immediate action to ensure that every riveting operation is precise, reliable and efficient.

Reference

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What Rivets to Use on Galvanized Steel?

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When dealing with galvanized steel, many people encounter a common problem: what rivets to use on galvanized steel. This is not a simple choice. If there is an electrochemical reaction between the rivets and the base material, it may lead to accelerated corrosion and affect the service life of the structure. Galvanized steel itself has good anti-rust performance, but if the rivet material does not match, it will destroy this layer of protection. Choosing the right rivets is not only about anti-corrosion, but also directly affects the strength and stability of the connection.

In engineering applications, the selection of rivets often requires a comprehensive consideration of corrosion resistance, structural strength, safety and cost. For instance, in outdoor or humid environments, if rivets undergo galvanic corrosion, the cost of maintenance and replacement far exceeds the initial material selection cost. The correct choice of rivets not only enhances the product’s lifespan but also reduces maintenance expenses over the long term.

Understanding Galvanized Steel and Its Challenges

Galvanized steel is a common structural and manufacturing material. Its surface is covered with a layer of zinc coating, which mainly serves to prevent the steel from direct contact with air or moisture, thereby delaying corrosion. Due to its durability and economy, galvanized steel is widely used in construction, transportation, energy, and outdoor facilities.

Galvanized Steel

However, in the connection and fastening process, galvanized steel faces a particular challenge: galvanic corrosion. This is an electrochemical reaction that occurs when different metals come into contact and are exposed to an electrolyte, such as rainwater or moisture. The metal with a greater potential difference is preferentially corroded.

For example:

  • If incompatible rivets (such as stainless steel or copper) are used on galvanized steel, it may accelerate the consumption of the zinc coating.
  • Once the zinc coating is damaged, the steel substrate will oxidize rapidly, eventually leading to structural failure.

This risk is particularly prominent in outdoor applications, humid environments or industrial settings. According to data from the National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE), the global economic loss caused by corrosion accounts for approximately 3-4% of the GDP each year. Among them, electrochemical corrosion is one of the common causes.

Therefore, in the application of galvanized steel, choosing the appropriate material for rivets is of vital importance. This not only affects the firmness of the connection but also directly determines the overall service life and maintenance costs.

Why Rivet Material Matters: Galvanic Corrosion Explained

In fastening applications, electrochemical corrosion is the most common yet often overlooked issue. Its formation conditions are quite simple:

  • Direct contact between different metals.
  • Presence of an electrolyte environment, such as rainwater, moisture or salt fog.
  • Existence of a potential difference between the metals.

When these three conditions are met, the metal with a lower potential will act as the “anode” and be corroded first. While the metal with a higher potential will serve as the “cathode” and remain relatively stable.

electrochemical corrosion
Galvanic Corrosion

Illustrative Examples

  • Use aluminum rivets on galvanized steel. Due to the significant potential difference between aluminum and zinc, in a humid environment, aluminum will accelerate oxidation, causing the strength of the rivets to rapidly decline.
  • If stainless steel rivets are used, the situation will be reversed. At this time, the zinc coating will sacrifice first, resulting in the failure of the protection of the galvanized steel, exposing the steel substrate and causing rusting.

Table: Comparison of Electrode Potentials of Common Metals

(The values are the standard electrode potentials, in relative terms, with the unit: V)

Metal / CoatingElectrode Potential (Approx. Value, V)Corrosion Risk Relation
Zinc Coating (Zn)-0.76 VMost likely to sacrifice, protects the steel substrate
Aluminum (Al)-0.68 VClose to zinc, but still carries corrosion risk
Carbon Steel (Fe)-0.44 VRelatively stable, but corrodes rapidly once zinc protection is lost
Stainless Steel (304/316)-0.10 ~ +0.05 VMuch higher potential, accelerates zinc corrosion

As can be seen from the table, the potential difference between the galvanized layer and stainless steel is the greatest, and thus the risk is the highest. The galvanized layer is relatively close to aluminum, but there are still potential risks. Suggestion:

  • On galvanized steel, it is preferable to use rivets of the same material or with similar potential. For example: galvanized steel rivets or special anti-corrosion coated rivets.
  • If stainless steel rivets must be used, measures such as isolation gaskets and insulating coatings should be employed to reduce direct metal contact.
  • In outdoor, marine or chemical environments, it is recommended to use rivet systems with higher anti-corrosion grades rather than relying on a single material.

Best Rivet Materials for Galvanized Steel

When choosing galvanized steel rivets, material compatibility is crucial. The correct selection not only ensures a strong connection but also extends the service life and reduces maintenance costs. The following are the advantages and disadvantages of several common rivet materials:

  • Advantages: Consistent with galvanized steel material, with the best electrochemical compatibility. Wide range of supply, low cost.
  • Disadvantages: The exposed parts are prone to rust. Usually, additional protection is required, such as anti-rust paint or sealant.
  • Application scenarios: Construction, machinery, interior and general industrial use.

  • Advantages: High strength, excellent corrosion resistance, particularly suitable for outdoor environments.
  • Disadvantages: There is a significant potential difference with the galvanized layer, which may accelerate the corrosion of the zinc layer. Isolation measures are required, such as insulating gaskets, coatings or sealants.
  • Application scenarios: Outdoor facilities, transportation, humid or highly corrosive environments.

  • Advantages: Performs best in marine or extremely corrosive environments, resistant to salt fog and chemical corrosion.
  • Disadvantages: Expensive, not suitable for large-scale use.
  • Application scenarios: High-end applications such as ships, marine engineering, and chemical equipment.

d. Aluminum rivets (Not recommended)

  • Disadvantage: It is prone to electrochemical corrosion when in contact with galvanized steel, resulting in a short service life.
  • Application Limitations: It is only suitable for indoor use, low-strength applications, and temporary connections.
  • Expert Recommendation: Try to avoid using aluminum rivets on galvanized steel.

Summary:

Economy option: Galvanized steel rivets.
Outdoor or industrial applications: Stainless steel rivets (with isolation measures required).
Extreme environments: Monel or specially anti-corrosion rivets.
Avoid using: Aluminum rivets.

Application-Based Recommendations

The selection of rivets is not only dependent on the material, but also closely related to the application environment. The corrosive media, load requirements and maintenance costs vary in different environments. The following table summarizes the best rivet choices for typical scenarios:

Application ScenarioRecommended Rivet MaterialDescription
Outdoor ConstructionStainless Steel Rivets + SealantResistant to rain, moisture, and temperature variations. Sealant helps reduce galvanic corrosion risk.
Indoor FixturesZinc-Plated Steel RivetsLow cost, good compatibility. Suitable for low-humidity and low-corrosion environments.
Automotive / Rail / HVACStainless Steel RivetsHigh strength and vibration resistance. Suitable for automotive body, rail transport, and HVAC systems.
Marine / CoastalMonel or Special Corrosion-Resistant Alloy RivetsExcellent corrosion resistance. Ideal for ships, port facilities, and high-salinity environments.

  • In outdoor or high-humidity environments, stainless steel rivets should be used in conjunction with isolation measures.
  • In extremely corrosive environments, although Monel is more expensive, its long-term maintenance cost is lower.
  • Indoor low-risk environments, galvanized steel rivets are the most cost-effective choice.

Rivmate Expertise & Standards

As a professional supplier in the fastener industry, Rivmate has always emphasized the compatibility of its products with galvanized steel in the design and selection process. We are well aware that the matching of the rivet material and the base material directly determines the reliability and durability of the connection.

Material Compatibility Guarantee

  • Rivmate offers a variety of material options, including galvanized steel, stainless steel, Monel, etc.
  • Each batch of products undergoes electrochemical compatibility testing to ensure safe use in different environments.
  • For the application of galvanized steel, Rivmate will preferentially recommend galvanized steel rivets or isolated stainless steel rivets to reduce the risk of electrochemical corrosion.

Adhered International Standards

IATF 16949 Certificate - Rivmate Certificate
IATF 16949

Rivmate’s products comply with and implement multiple international standards, ensuring performance and quality:

  • IFI (Industrial Fasteners Institute) — North American fastener standards.
  • ISO (International Organization for Standardization) — International unified standards.
  • DIN (Deutsches Institut fur Normung) — German industrial standards, commonly used in mechanical manufacturing.
  • ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) — Involves tests on material properties, corrosion resistance, etc.

The strict implementation of these standards has enabled Rivmate’s rivets to meet the requirements of industrial applications in terms of strength, corrosion resistance and consistency.

Rivmate's Selection Chart

To facilitate customers’ quick selection, Rivmate offers an intuitive selection tool.

Rivet TypeRecommended MaterialApplicable Grip RangeApplication Environment
Standard Open RivetZinc-Plated Steel1.5 – 6.0 mmIndoor structures, light installations
Sealed RivetStainless Steel2.0 – 8.0 mmOutdoor facilities, humid environments
High-Strength RivetStainless Steel / Monel3.0 – 12.0 mmTransportation, heavy-duty equipment
Special Corrosion-Resistant RivetMonel / Alloy Coated2.5 – 10.0 mmMarine, chemical, high-salt environments

The advantages of Rivmate lie in compatibility testing + international standard implementation + application scenario selection table. This not only helps customers enhance the reliability of their projects, but also reduces the maintenance costs in the later stage.

FAQ

Can aluminum rivets be used on galvanized steel?

Answer: Not recommended. There is a potential difference between aluminum and zinc. In humid or salt spray environments, it will corrode rapidly, causing the rivets to fail. Only consider this option for indoor or temporary applications.

Will stainless steel and galvanized steel corrode?

Answer: There will be risks. The potential difference between stainless steel and the galvanized layer is significant, which may accelerate the consumption of the zinc layer. However, by using sealant, insulating gaskets or surface coatings, the risk of corrosion can be significantly reduced.

What is the most cost-effective choice of rivets for galvanized steel?

Answer: The galvanized steel rivets themselves. They have the best compatibility with the base material, are inexpensive, and are widely available. For most indoor and light structures, this is the most cost-effective solution.

Is it necessary to apply a coating or sealant during the installation process?

Answer: It is strongly recommended to use it in an outdoor environment. Sealants or coatings can prevent moisture and electrolytes from penetrating, thereby extending the service life. This step is particularly crucial for applications that are exposed to rain, salt fog, or chemical environments for an extended period.

Protect Against Corrosion — Choose Rivmate Rivets Today

In the application of galvanized steel, the correct selection of rivets is of utmost importance. It not only effectively prevents electrochemical corrosion but also significantly extends the service life of the structure and reduces the cost of later maintenance. Incorrect selection often leads to premature failure and additional expenses.

From a practical application perspective:

  • Indoor environment → Choose galvanized steel rivets, which are economical and efficient.
  • Outdoor or humid environment → Use stainless steel rivets and combine with sealing measures.
  • Extremely corrosive environment → Use Monel or special anti-corrosion rivets.

Rivmate - russia(Moscow) International Fastener exhibition 2025

Rivmate offers a complete range of galvanized steel special rivet solutions, covering various materials, specifications and application scenarios. Moreover, all products comply with international standards (IFI, ISO, DIN, ASTM) and have undergone rigorous testing to ensure reliability in different environments.

If you are looking for reliable galvanized steel rivets, please contact Rivmate. Our engineering team will provide you with professional selection suggestions and highly cost-effective products based on your project requirements.

Reference

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