How to Rivet Metal to Wood？

2025-09-28
Author: Rivmate Rivet

How to Rivet Metal to Wood? Metal and wood are two completely different materials. Metal is hard while wood is soft, and when connecting them, difficulties are easily encountered. Common methods such as screws may gradually loosen due to the loosening of wood fibers; glue bonding lacks strength and durability; as for welding, it is even impossible to directly apply to wood.

How to achieve a strong bond between metal and wood? This article will offer you a comprehensive solution. We will detail the suitable types of rivets, tool selection, standardized operation procedures, and practical tips to avoid common problems. Rivmate, leveraging years of industry experience, will provide professional recommendations to help you achieve efficient and safe metal-wood riveting in various application scenarios.

Basic Concept of Riveting Metal to Wood

When it comes to the connection between metal and wood, many people may wonder: Why can rivets be used for both of these completely different materials at the same time?

Material Differences

Wood has a fibrous structure and is prone to cracking or deformation; while metal is hard and almost incompressible. This difference makes traditional screws or glue difficult to maintain stability over a long period. Screws may come loose due to the loosening of wood fibers, and glue cannot withstand large tensile or shear forces.

The Mechanism of Rivets' Function

The rivets in the connection do not merely “compress” the material; instead, they achieve a secure bond through “mechanical locking”. During installation, the tail end of the rivet undergoes plastic deformation, creating an “expansion” effect in the wood, while firmly fixing the metal in place. This method effectively disperses stress and reduces the risk of cracking in the wood due to excessive local stress.

Advantages of Riveting

Cross-material compatibility: Suitable for the combination of hard metals and soft woods.
Stress dispersion: Avoids single-point stress, enhancing the durability of the connection.
Permanent fixation: Compared to screws and glue, riveting is more stable and has better vibration resistance.

Therefore, rivets not only solve the problem of combining metal with wood, but also offer a better solution in terms of structural strength and long-term reliability.

Challenges of Riveting Metal to Wood

Although riveting is an effective method for connecting metals and wood, there are still some challenges in practical operation. If these issues are ignored, the quality of the connection and its lifespan will be affected.

Material Differences: The wood fibers are relatively soft and are prone to cracking at the points of stress. In contrast, metals are hard and usually require precise pre-drilling. If the drill hole is too large, the rivets may not be able to securely fasten; if it is too small, the wood may split.

Fixed Issue: Ordinary rivets have insufficient grip in wood. Since wood does not provide uniform support like metal does, the expansion at the tail end of the rivet is prone to loosen within the wood. Over time, the connection may gradually fail.

Durability issue: Wood expands or contracts with changes in environmental humidity and temperature, which will impose additional stress on the riveted joints. If the rivets used are not corrosion-resistant or no protective measures are taken, they may loosen or even corrode over time during long-term use.

Best Rivets for Metal-to-Wood Connections

Choosing the appropriate rivets is crucial for achieving a secure bond between metal and wood. Different rivet designs are tailored to meet various structural requirements. The following are the most common types:

① Blind Rivets

Suitable for single-side operation, especially in scenarios where the back side cannot be accessed. It is recommended to add a pad on the wood side to distribute the force and prevent the wood from being pulled through. It is commonly used in appliance assembly and lightweight structures.

② Large Flange Rivets

The head area of the rivet is larger, which can disperse the pressure on the wood surface. This effectively prevents the wood from cracking due to excessive force on a specific area. It is particularly suitable for furniture manufacturing, as well as for the combination of wooden frames and metal parts.

③ Multi-Grip Rivets

A single rivet can adapt to different thickness combinations, reducing the risk of incorrect selection. It is suitable for situations where there is a significant difference in thickness between wood and metal. It is very practical in maintenance or DIY projects.

④ Special Rivets: Rivnuts

After being installed in the wood, stable threaded holes can be formed. This allows metal parts to be fixed onto the wood using bolts, enabling a detachable connection. It is suitable for projects that require later maintenance or adjustments, such as furniture and outdoor installations.

Rivmate Recommended Solution

Stainless steel large flange blind rivets: Possessing high strength and corrosion resistance, they prevent wood from cracking.

Rivmate Rivnut Series: Provides threaded fixation function for wood, expanding the application scenarios.

Tools Required

Completing the riveting of metal and wood requires not only the right rivets but also the correct tools. Choosing the right tools can enhance efficiency, reduce errors, and extend the service life of the structure.

1. Manual Rivet Tools

Suitable for small-scale DIY or repair tasks.
Simple to operate, low in cost, and portable.
The drawback is that the efficiency is relatively low. It is not suitable for large-scale riveting and may cause fatigue after long-term use.

2. Cordless Electric Rivet Gun

Powered by batteries, it is lightweight and highly efficient.
It is particularly suitable for woodworking workshops, on-site installation or small-scale production.
The advantage lies in its high speed, no reliance on air source, and the ability to ensure high consistency.

3. Clamps and Fixtures

Before riveting, the metal and wood must be firmly fixed.
Avoid causing the wood to crack or the rivets to tilt due to uneven force.
It is recommended to use an F-type fixture or a woodworking-specific press plate to stabilize the workpiece.

Rivmate Tool Recommendation

Rivmate’s compact Pneumatic blind riveting gun is specifically designed for use with metal and wood combinations:

Lightweight in design, capable of operation in narrow spaces.
Stable output, reducing the occurrence of poor rivet installation.
Particularly outstanding in furniture manufacturing, outdoor structures and DIY projects.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Rivet Metal to Wood

Step 1: Measure and mark the hole positions

Before starting, it is necessary to determine the joint position of the metal and the wood. Use a ruler to measure precisely and mark the points on the metal surface with a drill bit or a scriber to prevent the drill bit from slipping during drilling. For the wooden part, you can mark lightly with a pencil to avoid leaving scratches. The hole positions must be perfectly aligned; otherwise, the rivets will be installed unevenly, affecting the overall stability. In the case of multiple-point riveting, it is recommended to fix the workpiece with a fixture first, and then mark the positions uniformly.

Step 2: Pre-drilling

Drilling is a crucial step in riveting. For the metal parts, a high-speed steel drill bit (HSS) should be used, while for the wood, a dedicated woodworking drill bit is recommended to minimize fiber cracking. The hole size should be larger than the rivet diameter by 0.1–0.2 mm to ensure that the rivet can be inserted smoothly and form a tight fit. After drilling, carefully clean the burrs and wood chips. If the hole edge is not smooth, the rivet cap cannot be fully pressed in, which will cause the connection to loosen.

Rivet Drill Bit Size Chart

Step 3: Increase the gasket on the wood side

Because the wood is relatively soft, if direct riveting is used, the tail of the rivet may penetrate the wood. To avoid this situation, a large flange rivet or a metal gasket must be added on one side of the wood. The head area of the large flange rivet is larger, which can disperse the pressure and prevent excessive force on a specific area. For furniture manufacturing or outdoor structures, this step is particularly important as it can significantly enhance the durability and appearance of the riveting.

Step 4: Inserting Rivets

When inserting the rivets, it is essential to ensure that the rivet head is perfectly flush with the metal surface. The selection of the rivet length is very crucial. It should cover the total thickness of the metal and wood, and leave a margin of 1.5 times the diameter of the rivet body for the tail to deform. If the rivet is too short, it cannot provide a reliable fixation; if it is too long, the tail shape will be uneven, which will instead affect the strength. During insertion, check if the hole positions are aligned to avoid assembly failure due to misalignment.

Step 5: Use a riveting gun to tighten

Select the appropriate riveting gun and align it with the core shaft. Keep the tool perpendicular to the workpiece. During the riveting process, the tail of the rivet will undergo plastic deformation until the core shaft breaks and the fixation is completed. Manual riveting guns are suitable for small-scale DIY projects, while electric or pneumatic riveting guns can provide more stable pulling force and ensure uniform tail expansion. During operation, avoid applying excessive force; otherwise, it may cause the wood to crack or the rivet head to be depressed.

Step 6: Check the Finished Product

After the riveting is completed, a comprehensive inspection must be carried out. First, check if there are any cracks or indentations on the wood. Then, confirm that the rivet head is tightly attached to the metal without any obvious gaps. The tail expansion should be uniform and full, neither skewed nor over-pulled through. If necessary, gently pull the workpiece to verify if the connection is secure. In industrial applications, tension tests or shear tests can also be conducted to ensure that the riveting strength meets the standards.

Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting

Wood cracking

Many users have found cracks at the edges of the wood during the riveting process. This is usually due to concentrated force or improper hole treatment. The solution is to use large flange rivets, as their contact area at the head is larger, which can disperse the pressure. Another method is to install metal gaskets at the hole openings of the wood, effectively reducing the concentration of tension.

Loose Rivets

If the rivets shake or are not firmly attached after installation, it is usually because the grip range was chosen incorrectly. Insufficient rivet length will result in incomplete tail formation. At this time, the correct specification that covers the total thickness should be selected, or a multi-grip range rivet should be used to accommodate different thickness metal-wood combinations.

Metal Deformation

During the operation, if the hole diameter is too large or the force applied by the riveting gun is uneven, the metal plate may develop dents or deformations. The solution is to ensure that the hole diameter precisely matches the diameter of the rivet (+0.1–0.2 mm), and keep the tool perpendicular to the workpiece. At the same time, avoid excessive force, especially when operating on thin metal plates.

Environmental Corrosion

In outdoor or humid environments, ordinary rivets are prone to rusting and eventually fail. The solution is to use stainless steel or galvanized rivets, which have stronger corrosion resistance. If applied in marine environments, it is also recommended to use anti-corrosion wood to extend the overall structure’s lifespan.

Pro Tips from Rivmate

Precise control of hole size

When drilling holes in metal and wood, the diameter of the hole should be 0.1–0.2 mm larger than the diameter of the rivet. This ensures that the rivet can be inserted smoothly and fits tightly. If the hole is too large, the rivet will become loose; if it is too small, the wood may crack.

The Correct Way to Pre-drill Wood

When drilling wood, a woodworking drill bit should be used instead of a metal drill bit. The cutting angle of the woodworking drill bit can effectively reduce fiber tearing and prevent splitting. After the drilling is completed, the wood chips should be promptly cleaned up to keep the hole opening tidy.

Recommended solutions for outdoor applications

In an outdoor environment, wood will expand or contract due to humidity and temperature. If ordinary rivets are used, they are prone to corrosion or loosening. Rivmate suggests using treated wood + stainless steel rivets, as this combination can significantly extend the service life.

Improvement of Batch Job Efficiency

When performing batch metal-wood riveting in a factory or workshop, one should choose an air or electric riveting gun. Compared to manual tools, they can provide stable pulling force, ensure consistent shape, and reduce operator fatigue, thereby improving production efficiency.

FAQ

Q1: Can you rivet metal to wood without splitting the wood?

Sure. The key lies in controlling the drilling process and the force applied. When drilling, use a woodworking drill bit and ensure that the hole diameter matches the diameter of the rivet (+0.1 – 0.2 mm). During installation, it is best to choose a large flange rivet or add a metal gasket on the wood side to distribute the pressure and prevent the wood from cracking.

Q2: What is the best rivet type for metal-to-wood connections?

In most cases, the large flange blind rivets are the best choice as they provide a larger contact area and prevent the wood from being pulled through. If greater flexibility is required, the Multi-Grip Rivets can be used. If the project needs later maintenance, the Rivnut (threaded rivets) is also an ideal solution.

Q3: Are rivets stronger than screws in wood-metal joints?

In terms of vibration resistance and long-term stability, rivets are usually more reliable than screws. Screws rely on the thread engagement in wood and may gradually fail as the wood fibers loosen. However, rivets achieve “mechanical locking” through the expansion of the tail end, making them more suitable for scenarios requiring long-term fixation. Nevertheless, if the connection needs to be detachable, screws are more convenient.

Q4: How do I prevent rivets from loosening in wood?

First, make sure to use the correct-sized rivets, especially the grip range must cover the total thickness of both the metal and the wood. Secondly, it is recommended to use a large flange head or gasket on the wood side to increase the grip force. Finally, choose stainless steel or galvanized rivets in humid environments to avoid corrosion and loosening.

Find the Right Metal-to-Wood Riveting Solution with Rivmate

Through proper aperture control, the selection of suitable rivets, and the use of professional tools, metal and wood can achieve stable and durable connections. Compared to screws or glue, riveting offers greater advantages in terms of vibration resistance and long-term reliability.

We have many years of industry experience and offer a full range of large flange blind rivets, Rivnut threaded rivets and professional riveting tools, which can meet various needs ranging from DIY to industrial applications.

Want to make the connection between your metal and wood more secure and durable? Please visit the Rivmate Technical Resource Center to obtain more professional guidelines and technical materials. You can also directly Contact the Rivmate Expert Team to get customized riveting solutions.

Reference

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What Is Riveting in Metal Work？

2025-09-27
Author: Rivmate Rivet

What makes riveting in metal work so compelling? Riveting, as a traditional and still widely used technique, has been employed in aviation, construction, automobiles, and manufacturing for over a century. In metal processing, the significance of riveting cannot be overlooked. Unlike the detachable nature of bolt connections or the need for high temperatures and complex processes in welding, riveting achieves a balance of strength, durability, and vibration resistance through the mechanical deformation of the rivets, which securely bond multiple pieces of metal together.

What is riveting? Why choose riveting instead of welding or bolts? Which type of rivets should be used in different scenarios? This article will gradually answer these questions. We will start with the definition and process principle of riveting, and deeply analyze different types of rivets and tools. We will compare the differences between riveting and other connection methods, and provide professional cases based on actual application scenarios. As a fastening component expert, Rivmate will offer you reliable material selection and tool recommendations.

What Is Riveting in Metal Work?

a. Definition

“Riveting in metal work” refers to the process of permanently joining two or more pieces of metal together using rivets. This is a classic mechanical fastening method that does not rely on threads or welding. It can provide a long-lasting and stable connection while maintaining the properties of the metal.

b. Principle

Riveting is achieved by the deformation of the rivets during the installation process to lock in place:

Solid Rivets: By hammering or applying hydraulic pressure, the tail end of the rivet undergoes plastic deformation, thereby pressing the workpiece together.
Blind Rivets: Using a mandrel to break, it forces the tail end of the rivet to expand and fix the workpiece. This method requires only a single operation and is highly suitable for enclosed or narrow spaces.

c. Characteristics

Riveting is a type of permanent connection, which cannot be disassembled after installation.
It does not require threads and is particularly suitable for thin plates or different types of metals.
There is no heat-affected zone, and it does not alter the mechanical properties of the metal.
It has good resistance to vibration and impact and is suitable for long-term load-bearing structures.

d. Standards and Specifications

In engineering applications, the riveting process must comply with international standards:

ISO 15973: General requirements for blind rivets.
ASTM F468/F468M: Specifies the material and performance requirements for metal rivets.

These standards ensure that the rivets meet the industry standards in terms of strength, durability and safety.

Riveting Process Explained

Riveting is a systematic process. Only by following the correct procedures can the strength and long-term reliability of the connection be ensured. The standard procedure is as follows:

Step 1: Measurement and Marking of Hole Positions

Precisely measure and mark the hole positions on the workpiece. It is recommended to use a scriber or a punch for positioning to prevent the drill bit from slipping. Accurate hole positions are the first step to ensure the quality of riveting.

Step 2: Drilling and Deburring

Drill holes according to the diameter of the rivets. The hole diameter should be larger by 0.1–0.2 mm than the diameter of the rivet body. After drilling, the burrs must be removed. If the hole opening is not smooth, the rivet cap will not fit tightly, ultimately leading to loosening.

Step 3: Inserting Rivets

Insert the rivet vertically into the hole. Ensure that the cap is flush against the surface of the workpiece. If there is any gap, you need to recheck the hole diameter or adjust the position of the workpiece.

Step 4: Use tools for shaping

Blind rivets: Pull the core shaft with a riveting gun until it breaks, causing the tail to expand and lock the workpiece.
Solid rivets: Apply force using a hammer or hydraulic equipment to cause plastic deformation in the tail, thereby fixing the workpiece.

During operation, ensure that the tool is perpendicular to the workpiece to avoid uneven force application.

Step 5: Check the Quality of Connectors

After the riveting is completed, conduct an inspection:

The head of the rivet should be firmly attached to the surface without any looseness.
The rivet expansion should be uniform and full, without any skewing.
The surface of the workpiece must not have any cracks or deformations. If necessary, a sampling tensile test can be conducted to verify the riveting strength.

Types of Rivets in Metal Work

In metal processing, different types of rivets are used in various scenarios. They have distinct characteristics in terms of structure, installation method, and application scope. Here are some of the most common types:

① Solid Rivets

Feature: Made entirely from a single metal rod, it has extremely high strength.

Application: Widely used in aviation, bridges and heavy machinery, for structures that need to withstand high loads and vibrations.

Advantages: The highest strength and reliability, making it the standard choice in the industrial and engineering fields.

Limitations: Installation requires bilateral operability and must be carried out using hammering or hydraulic equipment.

② Blind Rivets

Features: Fixed by core shaft breakage, supports single-sided operation.

Application: Suitable for scenarios where the backside is not accessible, such as in automotive manufacturing, home appliance assembly, and metal enclosures.

Advantages: Installation is quick, the process is simple, and the operation can be completed in a narrow space.

Limitation: The strength is slightly lower than that of solid rivets, and it is not suitable for critical load-bearing structures.

③ Semi-tubular Rivets

Feature: The rivet end is hollow, and it requires less force during installation.

Application: Commonly used in light industrial products, electronic equipment, and decorative items.

Advantages: Easy to install, reduces tool wear, suitable for medium and low-intensity requirements.

Limitations: The tensile and shear strengths are limited, and they are not suitable for high-load conditions.

④ Special Rivets

Closed-end Rivets: The tail end is sealed to prevent the penetration of liquids or gases. They are commonly used in air conditioning systems, ships and electronic equipment.

Sealed Rivets: Incorporate sealing rings to enhance corrosion resistance, suitable for outdoor and humid environments.

Multi-grip Rivets: One rivet covers different thickness ranges, reducing the risk of incorrect selection and suitable for maintenance or assembly of complex parts.

Riveting Tools Used in Metal Work

In metal processing, choosing the appropriate riveting tools is just as important as the rivets themselves. The correct tools can enhance efficiency, reduce operational errors, and ensure the quality of the connection. The common types of riveting tools include the following:

① Hand Rivet Gun

Features: Simple structure, easy operation.

Applicable scenarios: Small-scale DIY projects, repair tasks, or applications with low strength requirements.

Advantages: Low price, easy to carry.

Limitations: Low efficiency, difficult to handle thick metals or batch riveting, and prolonged operation can cause fatigue.

② Pneumatic/Hydraulic Rivet Gun

Features: Driven by compressed air or hydraulic system, it can continuously provide stable pulling force.

Applicable scenarios: Industrial mass production, such as automobile manufacturing and steel structure assembly.

Advantages: High efficiency, suitable for high-intensity and large-diameter rivets.

Limitations: Requires an external air source or hydraulic system. The initial investment and maintenance costs are relatively high.

③ Cordless Electric Rivet Gun

Features: Powered by batteries, balancing flexibility and portability.

Applicable scenarios: On-site installation and maintenance tasks, or situations with limited space.

Advantages: Easy to operate, fast speed, does not rely on air source, suitable for medium-sized riveting.

Limitations: The battery capacity limits the operating time, and the cost is higher than that of manual tools.

Rivmate Recommendation Tools

As a professional fastener brand, Rivmate offers compact electric riveting guns and industrial-grade blind riveting guns, which perform exceptionally well in practical applications:

Compact electric gun: Lightweight and flexible, suitable for narrow spaces and on-site operations.
Industrial-grade blind riveting gun: Highly efficient and durable, meeting requirements for mass production and high-strength applications.

Comparison Table: Why Riveting Instead of Welding or Bolting?

Method	Advantages	Disadvantages	Typical Use Cases
Riveting	– Single-sided installation possible – No heat-affected zone – Reliable under vibration	– Permanent, not easily removed – Requires pre-drilled holes	Aircraft structures, automotive, bridges
Welding	– Very high strength – Seamless connection – No need for additional fasteners	– Requires skilled labor – Heat can alter metal properties – Not suitable for dissimilar metals	Heavy structures, pipelines, pressure vessels
Bolting	– Easy to install and remove – Adjustable and reusable – Wide availability	– Loosens under vibration – Requires access to both sides – Adds weight in large assemblies	Machinery, construction, temporary joints

If the goal is to achieve a permanent, reliable and vibration-resistant metal connection, riveting is often the better choice. Welding is suitable for high-strength and thick plate structures, while bolts are more suitable for situations requiring disassembly.

Applications of Riveting in Metal Work

Rivet connections are widely used in metal processing. Due to their high strength, strong reliability, and excellent vibration resistance, they remain a core connection method in multiple industries. Here are some typical applications:

Aeronautics and Astronautics

Riveting is a fundamental process in aircraft manufacturing. It is used for airframe skins, wings, and cabin structures. Aluminum rivets are widely used due to their lightweight and corrosion resistance. According to data from Boeing, a large passenger aircraft may require over 2 million rivets.

Automotive Industry

Riveting is commonly used in body structure, chassis and exhaust system. In lightweight vehicle design, aluminum rivets and high-strength blind rivets are widely employed. Their advantage is that they can maintain the connection even under vibration conditions, unlike bolts which are prone to loosening.

Architecture and Bridges

Used for assembly of steel structures and connection of load-bearing components. In large bridges, riveting can withstand high shear forces and long-term loads. Although modern buildings increasingly use high-strength bolts, riveting remains indispensable in the maintenance of some historical buildings.

Household Appliances and Electronics

It is applied to the assembly of metal casings, chassis, and brackets. Blind rivets are the preferred choice as they can be operated on one side and are suitable for enclosed shells. At the same time, they avoid the heat damage to electronic components that may be caused by welding.

DIY and Furniture

It is commonly used in metal frames, leather products and handicrafts. Manual riveting guns and small-sized rivets can meet the requirements. It is suitable for individual enthusiasts and small workshops, and is simple and easy to use.

FAQ

Q1: What is riveting in metal work and why is it used?

Riveting connection is a process that permanently fixes two or more pieces of metal together using bolts. Its advantages lie in reliable structure, resistance to vibration, and no need for heat treatment, and it does not alter the properties of the metal like welding does. Therefore, it is widely used in the fields of aviation, automobiles, and construction.

Q2: What are the main types of rivets in metal work?

Common types of rivets include:

Solid Rivets: High in strength, suitable for load-bearing structures.
Blind Rivets: Operated from one side, suitable for enclosed spaces.
Semi-tubular Rivets: Require less installation force, suitable for light industry and decoration.
Special Rivets: Such as closed-type, waterproof-type, and multi-clamping-range rivets, meeting specific requirements.

Q3: Is riveting stronger than welding?

Not entirely. Welding generally offers higher strength, especially for thick metal structures. However, welding requires skilled techniques and may alter the metal properties. Riveting is more stable in vibrating environments, less likely to loosen, and is suitable for thin plates and different metals. Both should be chosen based on the actual application.

Q4: Can you remove and replace rivets in metal structures?

Yes, but it requires destructive removal. Usually, the head of the rivet is drilled off with a drill bit, and then the rivet body is pushed out. When replacing, a new rivet needs to be reinstalled. Therefore, riveting is regarded as a permanent connection method, unlike bolts which are easier to disassemble.

Find the Right Riveting Solution with Rivmate

Riveting in metal work is a reliable, permanent fastening method using different types of rivets and tools. Whether in aviation, construction, or automotive and household appliance manufacturing, riveting is widely used due to its reliability and vibration resistance properties.

Do you need to select the appropriate rivets and tools for your project?

Rivmate, as a professional fastener brand, offers a complete range of rivets and riveting tools, covering stainless steel, aluminum, steel, and various special materials. Our products have undergone rigorous testing and meet international standards, capable of meeting different requirements ranging from DIY to industrial production.

Please visit the Rivmate Technical Resource Center to obtain more application guidelines and technical materials. You can also directly Contact the Rivmate Expert Team to receive targeted selection advice and support.