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The Ultimate Guide to Buying Pop Rivet Guns Online

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Rivmate Fastener

Top Rivet and Rivet Nut Manufacturer in China

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Pneumatic Rivet Guns

Pop rivet guns are essential for any rivet installation project. Buying pop rivet guns will ensure a problem free riveting. Whether you’re an experienced operator or a 0-basic operator, you’ll be up and running with pop rivet guns in no time.Understanding how to buy the right pop rivet guns for your business is crucial. This guide will explore all aspects of pop rivet guns including types, pricing, usage scenarios and maintenance tips.

Table of Contents

Part 1 . What are Pop Rivet Guns?

A pop rivet gun is a manual, electric or pneumatic tool specifically designed to install blind rivets. This type of tool works by mechanically pulling off the mandrel of the rivet, causing the rivet body to expand and hold the material in place. If your project doesn’t lend itself to double-sided installation, then pop rivet guns are a great option.

With its irreplaceable advantages, the application of blind rivets in more and more scenarios. Including metal processing, automotive repair, aerospace, furniture manufacturing and other fields.

Best Pneumatic Rivet Gun

Part 2. Why is it Important to Choose the Right Pop Rivet?

The effectiveness of the installation of the pop rivets is often a matter of the overall safety of the structure. Choosing the right pop rivet guns for your project or business is critical. Here’s why:

  • Ensure installation quality and connection strength: Insufficient or excessive rivet gun tension can affect the installation quality of blind rivets. This can result in a loose connection or damage to the material.
  • Improve efficiency: Rivet guns can greatly improve the efficiency of installing pop rivets. Reduce installation time and labor costs.
  • Avoid incompatibility between tools and rivets: a qualified pop rivet gun can rivet many types and sizes of pop rivets.
  • Special feature requirements: Some rivet guns can offer broken core collection and silent operation.

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Part 3. What Types of Pop Rivet Guns are Available?

Understanding the different types of pop rivet guns is crucial to making an informed purchase. Below are the main types of pop rivet guns.

1. Hand Pop Rivet Gun

Manual rivet guns are perfect for home DIY, small repairs and low-frequency use scenarios. The cost of purchasing a manual rivet gun is low, typically only $30-$50, making it perfect for those on a budget. And a manual rivet gun can be used anywhere, anytime, which is perfect for newbies.

Hand Rivet Tool

While hand pop rivet guns are lightweight and handy. But it requires the use of human labor for rivet installation. And it can only install 5-10 rivets per minute, which is not suitable for batch work and is less efficient.

2. Electric Pop Rivet Gun

Electric pop rivet guns are suitable for use on medium-sized projects. For example, frequently used maintenance total or small factories, construction sites, temporary facilities set up and other outdoor work, these scenarios manual rivet gun is not suitable. However, compared to manual rivet guns, electric rivet guns are more expensive, averaging $100-500 a piece. And the batteries need to be replaced regularly and cannot work continuously for a long time.

Tools For Rivet Nuts

If you want to buy an electric rivet gun for your business, then it is necessary to understand the following benefits.

  • Battery operated for efficiency and labor saving.
  • Can rivet blind rivets other than structural rivets.
  • Suitable for outdoor work without fixed power supply.

3. Pneumatic Pop Rivet Gun

Pneumatic pop rivet guns are mainly used in industrial production lines. For example, automobile manufacturing, aircraft manufacturing and home appliance assembly. Pneumatic rivet gun can rivet any strength and material of blind rivets. And the installation efficiency of pneumatic rivet gun is very high, 30-50 rivets per minute.

Rivmate C Series blind rivet tool

A pneumatic rivet gun relies on an air source to provide power, so its use requires the connection of an air compressor, which costs an additional $200-$800. Operators typically need to wear ear protection to protect their ears when using a pneumatic rivet gun. If you want to buy a pneumatic rivet gun for your project, please read this page “Buy Pneumatic Pop Rivet Gun”.

Part 4. How do you Determine Compatibility with Your Rivets?

Before purchasing pop rivet guns, make sure the pop rivet guns are compatible with your rivet size and type. Here are some precautions to take:

  • Verify that the tension of the rivet gun is sufficient: rub the mold test rivet manufacturers to provide technical parameters (such as stainless steel 4mm rivets need to pull 3,500N).
  • Match the type of power with the type of rivet: manual rivet guns are suitable for aluminum and small diameter rivets. Electric rivet gun suitable for stainless steel and aluminum rivets. Pneumatic rivet guns are suitable for any size rivets and structural rivets.

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Part 5. How do you Choose Based on your Usage Applications?

When choosing to buy pop rivet guns, pay attention to their main application scenarios:

  • Manual: occasional use or DIY projects.
  • Electric: maintenance projects or frequent outdoor use.
  • Pneumatic: factory assembly line or mass installation jobs.

Part 6. What is the Difference Between the Different Types of Pop Rivet Guns?

Before buying the right pop rivet guns for your project, you need to understand the differences between the main types: manual rivet guns, electric rivet guns and pneumatic rivet guns. Each type has its pros and cons.

Hand Pop Rivet Gun

Manual rivet guns are cheap, but require purely human power. Installation efficiency is slower.

Electric Pop Rivet Gun

Electric rivet guns rely on rate batteries or plug-in power to provide pulling force through a motor. They are more portable than pneumatic rivet guns, but rely on battery life. It is suitable for frequent riveting for short periods of time.

Pneumatic Pop Rivet Gun

Pneumatic rivet guns are the most efficient to install. It relies on an air compressor, which creates tension through air pressure. However, portability is poor and it is suitable for stationary workshops or industrial environments.

Below is a comparison summary table of these features:

Comparison ItemManual Pop Rivet GunElectric Pop Rivet GunPneumatic Pop Rivet Gun
Power SourceHuman force (lever principle)Electricity (Li-ion battery/power cord)Compressed air (requires air compressor)
Pull Force Range500-2,000N2,000-5,000N5,000-10,000N
Installation Speed5-10 rivets/min15-30 rivets/min30-50 rivets/min
Compatible MaterialsAluminum, copper, mild steelAluminum, stainless steel, medium-carbon steelStainless steel, titanium alloy, high-strength steel
Rivet Diameter Range2-4mm3-6mm3-8mm
AdvantagesLow cost, lightweight, no energy requiredEffort-saving, moderate strength supportUltra-high pull force, industrial durability
DisadvantagesLabor-intensive, low efficiencyLimited battery life, higher costAir compressor dependency, loud noise (>85dB)
Cost$7-28 USD$70-420 USD$140-700 USD (tool) + compressor ($140-700 USD)
Weight0.5-1kg1.5-3kg2-5kg (tool body)
Noise LevelLow (<60dB)Moderate (70-75dB)High (≥85dB)
MaintenanceSimple cleaningBattery care, motor maintenanceAir line lubrication, regular drainage
Typical ApplicationsHome DIY, small repairsAutomotive modification, signage installationAutomotive manufacturing, aircraft assembly

 

How to Install Pop Rivets ? - The Most Complete Guide

Part 7. How to Take Care of Your Pop Rivet Gun?

Proper maintenance can significantly sing the life of a pop rivet gun. Here are some maintenance tips and cautions:

  • Cleaning Tools: Basic maintenance is required after each use. For example, removing metal shavings and lubricating critical areas.
  • Deep maintenance: Monthly deep maintenance is required. Remove the dust accumulated inside the manual rivet gun. Check the battery level and clean the clicker heat sink dust. Pneumatic riveting before more need to replace wear parts.
  • Long-term storage maintenance: to be rust-proof treatment and stored in a dry environment, avoid direct sunlight.
Pneumatic Blind Pop Rivet Gun set

Part 8.What are Some Common Pop Rivet Gun Brands to Consider?

When choosing to buy pop rivet guns, consider brands that are known for their quality and reliability:

  • Huck: HUCK is a well-known brand in the rivet industry, and the rivet gun is its supporting product.
  • Rivmate: Rivmate is a leading pop rivet guns manufacturer in China, which can be OEM/ODM customized according to your needs. You can get high quality pop rivet gun products with lower price.
  • Goebel:Goebel is the largest supplier of rivets in Germany. Their electric pop rivet gun is very reliable.

Part 9. How Much do you Expect to Spend?

Pop rivet guns prices vary greatly by type and brand:

  • Manual rivet guns: usually cost between $20 and $50.
  • Electric Rivet Guns: Typically priced between $200-$500.
  • Pneumatic Rivet Guns: Typically priced between $200-$1000.

It is important to note that there is a significant price difference between buying a well-known brand and buying from a rivet gun manufacturer. The difference is usually 2-5 times. If you want to buy pop rivet guns directly from pop rivet guns manufacturers, please contact us!

Part 10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

how to use a rivet gun?

The main types of rivet guns on the market are manual, electric and pneumatic. But their principle is the same, all through the pulling force to complete the installation of rivets.

The use of rivet guns is relatively simple, only need to start the switch.

Tips of Using Rivet Guns

There are many points to note when using a rivet gun. If you apply too much force, then it may cause the rivet to break prematurely or be damaged by the material being joined. And improper maintenance can reduce the life of the rivet gun.

The Difference of air hammer and rivet guns

The air hammer can be used to install solid rivets. the Rivet gun can install any rivet. There are differences between them in use, principle and price.

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Custom Rivet Solutions for Your Project

Where to Buy Pop Rivets in Bulk?

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3 8″ Blind Pop Rivets Wholesale

Where to buy Pop Rivets in bulk? Whether you’re buying pop rivets in small quantities or large quantities, there are plenty of places to buy pop rivets. but finding the right manufacturer and the ideal pop rivets for your project takes time and effort.

Therefore, consider several factors before buying pop rivets to ensure that you buy the right and high quality pop rivets.

In this guide, you will learn about the types and specifications of pop rivets, reliable pop rivet manufacturers, and key features to consider when buying.

Table of Contents

Part 1 . Understanding Pop Rivets

Pop rivets play a vital role in helping you improve the efficiency of your installation. Therefore, to find the best pop rivets for your business, you need to determine the type of pop rivets you need to use as well as the conditions of use.

Types of Pop Rivets

Here are the 6 main types of pop rivets:

  • Open End Pop Rivet
  • Closed End Pop Rivet
  • Multi Grip Blind Rivet
  • Monobolt Rivet
  • Bulb Tite Blind Rivet
  • Hemlok Blind Rivet

Open End Pop Rivet

Open end blind rivets are the most common type of rivet. It is very cheap and can save you a lot of financial costs. If your business is on non-load bearing structures, then buying open end rivets is a good option.

It is important to note that you need to use a special riveting tool to install the rivets. For example, manual rivet tools and pneumatic rivet guns.

Colored Open Type Blind Rivets

Rivmate offers a full range of open end pop rivets including aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel and monel. no matter which size rivet you need to buy, you can get a satisfactory solution. Buy open end pop rivets here.

Closed End Pop Rivet

Sealed Blind Rivets are also a type of Standard Blind Rivet. The difference is that it has a completely sealed construction at the end. Sealed Blind Rivets are designed for applications that require protection against leakage, dust or corrosion.

Rivmate Aluminum Sealed Type Blind Pop Rivet

Sealed rivets are typically made of aluminum and stainless steel, providing a great lightweight solution. If you would like to purchase rivets for your waterproofing project, please contact us! Buy Closed Rivets today.

Multi Grip Blind Rivet

Multi grip blind rivets are specially designed blind rivets. Unlike other rivets, multi grip blind rivets have a very wide riveting range. The body of the blind rivet forms two expanding segments (“multi grip”) during installation.

Types of multi grip pop rivets

The great thing about Multi grip blind rivets is that they are compatible with a wider range of total material thicknesses, eliminating the need to precisely match rivet lengths. Ideal for joining multiple layers of panels or for assembly scenarios where thickness is uncertain. If your project requires this rivet, purchase multi grip blind rivets.

Monobolt Rivet

Monobolt rivets are a type of structural rivet. It is a high-strength rivet designed for heavy-duty joining scenarios where ultra-high strength, vibration and fatigue resistance are required. It combines the strength of a conventional bolt with the installation advantages of a blind rivet.

What are monobolt rivets

Monobolt rivets are at the high end of the blind rivet system, so it will have a slightly higher unit price. Buy monobolt rivets now.

Bulb Tite Blind Rivet

Like closed end pop rivets, bulb tite blind rivets have excellent waterproofing. The structure of bulb tite blind rivets is designed not to damage brittle or soft materials.

Order Bulb Tite Rivets from China

Metal roofs and rooftop solar panel installations often use bulb tite rivets, order rivets now.

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Part 2. Pop Rivet Manufacturer

Rivmate Rivet  (Suzhou Rivmate Import & Export Co.,LTD)

Rivmate Rivet Logo

Key Features:

  • The origin is Jiangsu, China.
  • We offer a wide range of rivets, including standard blind rivets, structural rivets, waterproof rivets, solid rivets and rivet nuts.
  • Low MOQ.
  • Provide first class service and high quality products.
  • Provide PPAP documents.
  • IATF 16949 certified rivet factory.
Howmet Aerospace

Key Specifications:

  • Rich experience in industry solutions.
  • Some origin is USA, some imported from China.
  • Owners of rivet brand.

Nippon Rivet ( Nippon Pop Rivets and Fasteners Ltd)

Nippon Rivet ( Nippon Pop Rivets and Fasteners Ltd)

Key Specifications:

  • With over 30 years of experience .
  • With over 600 skilled employees.
  • Factory ISO9001:2015 approved for this product.
  • The largest rivet supplier in Japan.
  • Strict requirements for product quality.

Goebel (Goebel Fasteners Inc.)

Goebel (Goebel Fasteners Inc.)

Key Specifications:

  • Provide goods at factory price, no middleman.
  • Accept OEM, send customized request
  • Provide high quality products that are 100% tested and pass strict tests before shipment.
  • Safe packing and fast delivery.
  • Provide professional and high quality pre-sale and after-sale service

Part 3. Factors to Consider When you Purchase Pop Rivets

If you are planning to buy pop rivets. in this case, you must know enough about the rivets, manufacturer and other selection factors. Here are some of the key factors to consider:

  • Rivet types: there are many types of blind rivets, you need to specify the type of rivets you need for your project. Examples include open end rivets, closed end rivets, structural rivets and high strength blind rivets. You need to be clear about the application scenario, strength and weight of different types of blind rivets.
  • Rivet material: common rivet materials are carbon steel, stainless steel and aluminum.
  • Size specification: The rivet diameter needs to match the pre-drilled holes. The length of the rivet body should cover the total thickness of the material to be riveted, usually the total thickness of the material + 1.5 times the rivet diameter.
  • Strength Requirements: Ensure that the tensile strength and shear strength of the rivets are in full compliance with the needs of the project.
  • Environmental adaptability: If your project’s use of the scenario may have a risk of corrosion, the need to choose stainless steel or with plated rivets.

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Part 4. Conclusion

In conclusion, before buying pop rivets, make sure you your program specific requirements. This way you may purchase the best pop rivets for your business! This will help you earn the trust of your customers.

Also, keep an eye on the rivet manufacturer and conduct a thorough background check. Next, choose the right size, material, type and strength to match your business.

This guide can help you find the right pop rivets for your requirements.

Part 5. Selected Frequently Asked Questions

What materials can be connected using pop rivets?

POP rivets are widely used in metals, plastics, composites, etc. However, different materials have different joining requirements, so choosing the right rivets and tools is crucial.

What are the common failures and solutions for POP rivets?

These include problems such as rivets pulling out, rivets leaking, and poor riveting. Solutions usually include checking the rivet size, adjusting the tooling, or making sure the material is flat and free of defects. If you want to learn more, read this blog “ Types of Rivet Failure: Riveted Joints Failure and How to Avoid It ”.

What pop rivets should be used on plastic materials?

When using pop rivets on plastic, it is necessary to ensure that the connection is secure and will not damage the plastic parts. Several of the following can be used on plastic:

  • Nylon rivets
  • Aluminum rivets
  • Tri fold rivets
  • Multi grip blind rivets
  • Large flange head Rivet

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How to Choose Rivets for Thick Material?

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How to Choose Rivets for Thick Material

Rivets are generally used to join thin sheet products. So do you know HOW to choose rivets for thick material?

By reading this blog, you will get to know the points to look out for rivets for thick material.

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Why Use Rivets for Thick Material?

If you look closely, you’ll notice that there are more and more applications using rivets these days. Rivets connect thick materials are widely used in industry, construction, transportation and other fields. Its core advantages are reflected in strength, reliability, installation flexibility and adaptability.

  • High strength and fatigue resistance
  • Single-sided installation
  • Wide material compatibility
  • Low cost
  • Lightweight Advantage
Why Use Rivets for Thick Material

Typical applications of rivets in joining thick materials are as follows:

  1. Heavy machinery: excavator boom (thick steel plate) using structural rivets to resist shear.
  2. Aerospace: aircraft wing skin and skeleton with titanium alloy rivets to reduce weight and fatigue.
  3. Shipbuilding: thick steel plate riveted hull corrosion and seawater impact resistance.

Cautions

  • Thickness Limit: Ordinary blind rivets are suitable for ≤25mm, thicker materials need solid rivets or a combination of solutions.
  • Professional selection: according to the load, the environment to match the rivet material and type (refer to this article selection guide).

Types of Rivets for Thick Material

Not all rivets can be used to install thick materials. Below I will describe several rivets that are suitable for riveting thick materials.

Riveting thick materials generally requires rivets that can withstand high strength. Designed for high strength applications, structural rivets have excellent rivet shear strength and rivet tensile strength. However, the installation of structural rivets requires the use of a specialized pneumatic rivet gun.

Monobolt Structural Rivets Supply

Structural rivets are usually riveted to load-bearing areas. Applicable scenarios are as follows:

  • Materials with a total thickness of 6-25 mm (e.g. steel structures, heavy machinery).
  • Where dynamic loads are required (e.g. vehicle frames, bridges)

Multi grip blind rivets span a wide rivet grip range. This type of rivet can accommodate a wide range of material thicknesses (e.g. 3-13mm).Multi grip blind rivets can take the pressure off your inventory. Regardless of the thickness of the sheet material, the same size multi rivets can be used for riveting.

Applications of Multi grip Pop Rivets

The applicable scenarios for Multi grip blind rivets are as follows:

  • When you are not sure about the thickness of the material or when there are variations (e.g. sheet metal splicing, vehicle repairs).
  • No need to accurately predict quantities, suitable for DIY or on-site work.

Blind Rivet Reinforced

To hold thicker materials in place, blind rivets can be used in larger sizes or steel core designs. This design of blind rivet provides higher holding power and shear strength to the backing material.

Large Flange Head Blind Rivets

Applicable Scenarios:

  • Single-sided operation, total thickness 5-12 mm (e.g. steel containers, industrial equipment).
  • It is recommended to choose a steel core or stainless steel to increase the load capacity (e.g. Magna-Lok series).

Solid Rivets

Solid rivets are the most traditional rivets. Its installation requires a double-sided operation (knockout molding). Solid rivets are extremely reliable and are well suited for use on heavy-duty projects.

Solid Rivets Custom

Today, solid rivets are used exclusively for riveting thick materials. Here are some of its application scenarios.

  • Extremely thick materials (e.g. boilers, shipbuilding, aerospace).
  • Permanent non-removable connections for static load dominated applications.

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How Thick of Material Can you Rivet?

The thickness of material that can be riveted to a rivet varies depending on the type, material and design. The following are common types of rivets and the range of material thicknesses they are suitable for.

  • Standard blind rivets: aluminum blind rivets are suitable for riveting single-layer materials with a total thickness of 0.5-6mm. steel core/stainless steel blind rivets are suitable for riveting a total thickness of 1-12mm (higher strength, suitable for thicker materials).
  • Structural rivets: single-layer material thickness of 6-25mm (such as steel structure, heavy machinery).
  • Multi grip blind rivets: very wide range of coverage. 3-13mm (such as sheet metal splicing, vehicle frame).
  • Solid Rivets: Theoretically capable of riveting very thick materials (e.g. boilers, ships with steel plates over 20mm).
  • Monobolt rivets: thin to medium materials: 1-8mm (commonly used in electronic equipment, furniture).
How Thick of Material Can you Rivet

How to Choose Rivets for Thick Material?

When selecting blind rivets for thick materials, it is important to consider the thickness of the material, strength requirements, installation conditions and environmental factors. The following are specific steps.

1. Measure the total thickness → 2. Select the type (multi-clamping/structure) → 3. Determine the material → 4. Match the diameter and length.

I. Specify the total thickness of the material

  1. Measure the total thickness: the material to be connected to the multi-layer superposition, measure the total thickness (eg: two 8mm steel plate superposition for 16mm).
  2. Reserve margin: the rivet “clamping range” should cover the total thickness, and leave a margin of about 1-2mm (eg: the total thickness of 10mm, choose the rivet clamping range of 8-12mm).

Ⅱ. select the type of blind rivets

Select the following types based on thickness and strength requirements:

  • Multi grip blind rivets (Multi-Grip): for thicknesses from 3-13mm (e.g. metal frames, vehicle repairs).
  • Structural Blind Rivets (High Strength Blind Rivets): For thickness 6-25mm (e.g. steel structures, bridges).
  • Large Diameter Blind Rivets with Steel Core: For thickness 8-12mm (e.g. industrial equipment, cargo containers).
How to Choose Rivets for Thick Material

Ⅲ. determine the material

  • Aluminum rivets: lightweight, corrosion-resistant, but lower strength, suitable for thickness ≤ 6mm non-load-bearing scenes.
  • Steel core/stainless steel rivets: high strength and shear resistance, suitable for load-bearing structures with thickness ≥ 6mm.

Ⅳ. matching rivet diameter and length

1. Diameter Selection

The thicker the material to be riveted for your project, the larger the rivet diameter needs to be (common diameters: 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm). Specifically you can refer to the following rules:

  • Thickness ≤ 6mm: choose 3-4mm diameter.
  • Thickness 6-12mm: choose 4-5mm diameter.
  • Thickness>12mm: choose ≥5mm diameter, or switch to structural rivets.

2. Length calculation

Rivet length ≈ total material thickness + the length required to form the head of the rivet (usually 1.5 times the diameter). Let’s take for example a material with a total thickness of 10mm to be riveted. For a 5mm diameter rivet, the length of the rivet would be ≥ 10mm + (5 x 1.5) = 17.5mm.

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Wholesale Rivets for Thick Material Project

Read through this guide and if you’re still not sure how to choose the right rivets for your THICK MATERIAL project, contact us!

Rivmate is leading rivet manufacturer in china. you will get professional riveting solution.

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The Ultimate Guide to Blind Pop Rivet Clamping Force

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Install Multi Grip Blind Rivets

Blind rivet clamping force can directly affect the riveting effect of the blind rivets. So do you know what is the Blind Rivet Clamping Force? What factors affect it.

With this ultimate guide, you will learn everything essential about rivet clamping force.

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Blind Pop Rivet Clamping Force - Basic Definition

Blind Rivet Clamping Force is the constant pressure exerted on the joining material by the expanding deformation of the blind rivet’s tail after installation. This pressure ensures that the material is held tightly in place and is a central source of strength for riveted structures to resist external forces and maintain long-term stability.

Applications of Multi grip Pop Rivets

Importance of Blind Rivet Clamping Force

  • Ensures a solid connection: Eliminates gaps and prevents loosening due to vibration or load variations by compacting the material contact surfaces.
  • Resist separation and deformation: the clamping force acts perpendicularly to the material surface, directly opposing the tensile forces (e.g. stretching, bending) that try to separate the material.
  • Enhance sealing performance: In applications where leakage prevention is required (e.g. pipes, housings), sufficient clamping force reduces the gap between materials and enhances the sealing effect.
  • Adapt to dynamic environments: In scenarios with high vibration, shock or temperature fluctuations (e.g., automotive, aircraft structures), the clamping force maintains a durable and reliable connection.
  • Simplified assembly process: Unilateral mounting creates equalized pressure, making it suitable for tight spaces where double-sided operation is not possible, while ensuring consistent strength.

How to Measure Blind Rivet Clamping Force?

We all know that clamping force is a very important factor for blind rivets. So do you know how to measure the blind rivet clamping force?

Blind Rivet Tensile Strength Test

If you want to accurately test blind rivet clamping force, then you need to use a professional laboratory. In the lab, you need to use a tensile testing machine to record the maximum load by applying reverse pressure until the component separates.

  1. Fix the riveted specimen on the tension machine.
  2. Slowly apply a tensile force perpendicular to the connection surface and monitor the change in force value.
  3. The peak force when the rivet fails (pulls out or breaks) is the limit value of the clamping force.

The actual clamping force needs to be combined with the deformation characteristics of the material, usually taking 70-90% of the peak force as a reference value.

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How Does Clamping Force Affect the Blind Rivet Strength?

Blind rivet clamping force directly affects the overall strength and load capacity of the rivet. The following is a detailed analysis:

1. Ability to resist tensile loads

Clamping force through the expansion of the tail of the rivet deformation, the material to be connected to the rivet head and tail between the “blind end” to form a friction resistance to material separation. The greater the clamping force, the stronger the friction between the materials, the greater the tensile strength of the rivet.

2. Resistance to shear loads

High clamping force → material fit tightly → shear force distribution is more uniform, reducing local stress concentration.

3. Stability in dynamic loading and vibration environments

Qualified clamping force provides dynamic load capacity of the rivet.

  • Vibration Attenuation: The continuous pressure provided by the clamping force counteracts the relative material displacement caused by cyclic loading.
  • Self-locking effect: Similar to bolt preload, clamping force inhibits initial loosening induced by vibration (e.g., automotive chassis, aircraft skins).
  • Fatigue Life Improvement: Clamping forces reduce alternating stress amplitudes and delay fatigue crack initiation by eliminating gaps.

4. Synergies under multiple composite loads

In composite stress scenarios (e.g. tensile + shear, bending + torsion):

  • Clamping force maintains a rigid material fit and avoids localized stress superposition.
  • At frame joints, high clamping forces prevent the accumulation of structural deformation due to multi-directional loads.

How to Optimize Blind Rivet Clamping Force for Different Applications?

Clamping force requirements vary from application to application. For soft materials, if the clamping force is too high, it can easily lead to material damage. The rivet clamping force for structural rivets is much higher than that of standard rivets.

What are monobolt rivets

Clamping force optimized for the type of load

Load TypeOptimization FocusRecommended Rivet TypeParameter Adjustments
Static Tensile LoadMaximize clamping force to prevent separation; prioritize tensile strength.Structural blind rivets (e.g., Rivmate Monobolt Rivet)Increase diameter (≥5mm), stainless steel material.
Dynamic VibrationPrevent loosening; enhance fatigue resistance.Self-locking rivets (e.g., Avdel® LOK Series)Multi-lobe tail design; low-friction mandrel coating.
Shear LoadEnhance shank strength.Blind lockbolts (high-shear materials)Thicker shank; mandrel strength matching.
Composite LoadBalance tensile and shear performance.Closed-end stainless steel rivetsDouble-lock structure; uniform tail expansion.

Optimization of the clamping force according to the material to be joined

  • Soft Substrates (Plastics, Aluminum): When riveting soft materials, rivets tend to crush and lose clamping force. Therefore, you can choose aluminum or mild steel soft rivets to reduce the expansion pressure. Or increase the rivet gasket area to disperse the pressure (such as flat head rivets).
  • Hard substrates (steel, composite materials): riveting hard materials, it is easy to occur when the local stress concentration. So you can use high-strength rivets (stainless steel / titanium alloy) and pre-drilled holes to reduce resistance.
  • Multi-layer dissimilar materials: If inter-layer sliding occurs, pre-compact the inter-layer gap (pressure fixture-assisted installation).

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Can Excessive Clamping Force Cause Rivet Breakage or Material Deformation?

Yes, excessive blind rivet clamping force can lead to problems such as rivet breakage, material crushing and deformation, and even connection failure.The issues that may arise are listed below:

  • Premature breakage of the mandrel
  • Neck shear failure
  • Rivet head damage
  • Soft material dents
  • Stress concentration
Tri Fold Blind Rivets for Soft Materials

Causes of excessive clamping force

FactorImpact
Excessive Tool ForceHigh-pressure rivet guns or incorrect settings can over-expand the rivet, leading to deformation or fracturing.
Mismatched Rivet-Material HardnessHard rivets (e.g., stainless steel) on soft substrates (e.g., plastic) cause crushing.
Process ErrorsUncalibrated tools, repeated pulling, or improper installation speed.
Environmental FactorsHigh temperatures may unexpectedly increase clamping force post-installation.

 

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The Comprehensive Guide to Blind Rivets Strength

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What Are Magnalok Rivets

Are you in the process of making a decision about purchasing rivets? You need to know about Blind Rivet Strength. What are the components of the strength of a blind rivet? With this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about the strength of a blind rivet.

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Blind Rivet Strength - Basic Overview

Blind rivet strength refers to its ability to withstand external forces under specific conditions without failure.Blind rivet strength mainly includes tensile strength, shear strength, fatigue strength and other key indicators.

Install Multi Grip Blind Rivets

Blind Rivet Strength consists of a number of different components. Included:

Components of Blind Rivet Strength

1. Tensile Strength

The tensile strength of a blind rivet is its maximum ability to resist fracture under axial tensile load. This index is the core index to measure the reliability of rivet connection. Tensile force represents the maximum force value (unit: kN or MPa) that a rivet can withstand before failure under axial tensile load, reflecting the comprehensive performance of rivet material strength and structural design.

Blind Rivet Tensile Strength

Factors affecting Blind Rivets Tensile Strength

The main factors affecting the tensile strength performance of the blind rivets are two: 1. rivet material 2. rivet head type.

Common metal materials used in the manufacture of blind rivets are aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel and titanium alloy. By their made of blind rivets tensile strength from small to large arrangement for aluminum blind rivets, stainless steel blind rivets, carbon steel blind rivets, titanium alloy blind rivets.

Types of Blind Rivet Head

Rivet head types are generally dome head, countersunk head and large flange head. large flange head blind rivets have the highest tensile strength and countersunk head blind rivets have the lowest.

2. Shear Strength

The shear resistance of a blind rivet is its ability to resist fracture or failure under lateral shear. The maximum force value (in kN or MPa) that the rivet can withstand before failure under transverse shear load, reflecting the ability of the rivet to resist material slippage or fracture

Blind Rivet Shear Strength

Factors affecting Blind Rivets Tensile Strength

Factors affecting the shear strength of blind rivets include: rivet material and rivet structure.

  • Rivet material: aluminum < stainless steel < carbon steel < titanium alloy.
  • Rivet construction design: common blind rivets < structural rivets.

3. Core Removal Force

The core ejection force of a blind rivet is the maximum force required when the core is pulled out or ejected during installation. Nail core ejection force is the installation of blind rivets, riveting gun exerted by the axial tension so that the nail core breakage or complete ejection of the force required (unit: kN).

How to Install Q Rivets

The Role of Nail Core Ejection Force

  • Ensure that the nail body expands sufficiently to form a tight joint.
  • Controlling material deformation during installation (e.g. avoiding sheet crushing).
  • Ensuring that the nail core breaks precisely at the preset break point (Notch Point), preventing excessive length of the residual mandrel.

4. Core Retention Force

The core retention force of a blind rivet refers to the bonding force between the portion of the core remaining in the rivet body and the rivet body after the breakage of the core after the rivet installation is completed. This characteristic ensures that the core of the nail will not be dislodged during vibration, shock or prolonged use. It directly affects the sealing, conductivity (e.g. electrical connection scenarios) and long-term reliability of the connection.

Avdel Q Rivet

The Role of Nail Core Retention Force

  • Maintain connection integrity (avoid loosening or leaking).
  • Ensure continuity of electrical connections (e.g. grounded rivets).
  • Preventing foreign objects from entering rivet holes (aerospace, outdoor equipment).

nail core retention vs nail core ejection force

ParametersNail Core RetentionNail Core Ejection Force
operative phasePost-installation use phaseInstallation process (moment of nail core breakage)
test objectiveAssessment of the resistance of the residual part of the nail core to dislodgementMeasurement of the force required to break the nail core
typical valueAluminum rivets: 0.5-2kN, steel rivets: 3-8kNAluminum rivets: 1.5-3kN, steel rivets: 5-10kN

5. Clamping Force

The clamping force of a blind rivet is the squeezing force exerted on 2 loose pieces, after the rivet has been installed. The higher the clamping force, the less likely to loosen the workpiece after riveting, but may cause damage to some soft or brittle workpiece. The role of clamping force is mainly to prevent sliding of the connecting surfaces, to reduce contact resistance (electrical connection), and to improve fatigue life.

Applications of Multi grip Pop Rivets

Difference with tensile/shear

ParametersClamping ForceTensile/Shear Strength
DefineMaintains static compression force of the connectionMaximum load capacity before failure
Test ConditionNon-destructive measurements (e.g. ultrasound)Destructive testing (tensile/shear to break)
Typical ValueAluminum rivets: 1-5 kN, steel rivets: 5-20 kNAluminum rivet shear resistance: 2-10 kN

Factors affecting Blind Rivets clamping force

The clamping force is not always constant. It will change depending on the following factors.

  • Rivet design and material
  • Correct installation
  • Characteristics of the material being joined

Rivet design and materials: Open end rivets do not have the same clamping force as closed end rivets and structural rivets. Titanium rivets have the highest clamping force and aluminum alloys are relatively low.

Correct installation: Incorrect installation may result in rivet failure.

Characteristics of the material to be joined: The softer the material to be joined, the higher the clamping force required to compensate for plastic deformation.

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Comparison of Blind Rivets Strength with Other Fasteners

ParameterBlind RivetBolt/NutSelf-Tapping ScrewWeldingStructural Adhesive
Tensile StrengthMedium-High (Al: 3-5kN, Steel: 8-15kN)High (Grade 8.8 Bolt: ≥800MPa)Low (M5 Screw: 2-4kN)Extreme (Matches Base Material)Medium (Epoxy: 10-30MPa)
Shear StrengthMedium-High (Al: 2-5kN, Steel: 6-12kN)High (Grade 8.8 Bolt: ≥640MPa)Low (M5 Screw: 1-3kN)Extreme (Matches Base Material)Low (Epoxy: 5-15MPa)
Fatigue StrengthMedium (Clamping-Dependent)High (Preload-Controlled)Low (Prone to Loosening)Medium (HAZ Weakness)Low (Aging/Cracking)
Dynamic Load AdaptabilityMedium (Requires Anti-Loose Design)High (Elastic Deformation)Low (Vibration Failure)Medium (Weld Toughness)Very Low (Brittle Failure)

Comprehensive Comparison Table

MetricBlind RivetBoltSelf-Tapping ScrewWeldingStructural Adhesive
Static Strength★★★☆★★★★★★★☆★★★★★★★☆
Dynamic Strength★★★☆★★★★☆★☆★★★☆★☆
Ease of Installation★★★★☆★★★☆★★★★★★★☆★★★☆
Reusability★☆★★★★★★★★☆
Corrosion Resistance★★★★ (Stainless/Al)★★☆ (Coating Required)★★☆★★★ (Weld Treatment)★★★☆
Cost★★★☆★★★☆★★☆★★☆★★★☆

 

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How to Choose the Right Blind Rivet to Meet the Strength Requirements?

1. Clarify intensity requirements

Before choosing the right Blind Rivet, you need to first figure out the type of load for your application scenario. The types of loads that may occur in common application scenarios are as follows:

  • Static loads: tensile/shear strength is of concern (e.g. steel connections).
  • Dynamic loads: fatigue strength needs to be evaluated (e.g. vehicle chassis, aircraft skins).
  • Composite loads: both tensile-shear combinations are considered (e.g. lifting brackets).

2. Key Selection Parameters

Rivet Material

Rivet MaterialShear Strength RangeApplication Notes
Aluminum (5056)2-5 kNLightweight structures (electronics)Avoid direct contact with steel (galvanic corrosion)
Stainless Steel (316)6-12 kNHigh-corrosion environments (ships, chemical plants)Must pair with stainless steel substrates
Titanium (Ti-6Al-4V)15-22 kNAerospace high-temperature partsHigh cost, requires specialized tools
Carbon Steel (Galvanized)8-15 kNIndustrial machinery, steel structuresCoating thickness affects corrosion resistance

Diameter Selection Guidelines

Total Thickness (mm)Recommended Diameter (mm)Typical Shear Strength (Stainless Steel)
1-33.24-6 kN
3-64.08-12 kN
6-104.812-18 kN

 

Rivet Type

  • Open type: low shear resistance (friction-dependent), suitable for non-load-bearing connections.
  • Closed type/multi grip type: 30%-50% higher shear resistance (mechanical interlocking structure).

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How to Remove Self Piercing Rivets?

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How to Remove Self Piercing Rivets

Do you know how to remove self piercing rivets? Let us explore it.

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Why Remove Self Piercing Rivets?

You may have a need to remove self piercing rivets when your product has been manufactured incorrectly and parts need to be replaced; when the product needs to be repaired or upgraded after use; or when the material needs to be separated during the recycling process.

  • Industrial Defect Repair
  • Design Change Adaptation
  • Automotive Collision Repair
  • Functional Upgrades
  • Rivet Reuse
Why Remove Self Piercing Rivets

3 Ways to Remove Self Piercing Rivets

The method of removing self piercing rivets varies depending on the applicable scenario. Below is a brief comparison of the three main removal methods.

Assessment dimensionsdrilling methodAngle grinder cutting methodHydraulic shovel dismantling method
ApplicableGeneral maintenanceEmergency/no power environmentHigh Volume Professional Rework
Efficiency5-8 minutes/point10-15 minutes/point2-3 seconds/point
Risk of substrate damageLow (controlled drilling depth)Medium (thermal effects of cutting)Extremely low (precise mold matching)
equipment cost€200-500 (electric drill + drill)€150-300 (angle grinder)€8,000-15,000 (hydraulic systems)
Skill RequirementsMedium (drilling accuracy required)High (experience in cutting operations)Professional training (parameterization)

 

Method 1: Borehole method (recommended general program)

The drilling method is generally suitable for removing standard hardness spr rivets. if you are removing spr on aluminum, steel, composites (non-brittle substrates), such as automotive body repairs, aerospace structural rebuilds, then the drilling method is a very applicable and economical method.

3 Ways to Remove Self Piercing Rivets - Method-Borehole

advance preparation

Tools/ParametersSpecification Requirements
DrillBrushless motor with adjustable speed (1,500-3,000 RPM), e.g. Bosch GSR 18V-EC
DrillerHSS or carbide drill bit, diameter = rivet head diameter x 0.8 (Example: 4mm drill bit for 5mm rivet)
CoolantWater-based cutting fluid (aluminum) or oil-based coolant (steel), flow rate ≥50ml/min
Positioning ToolsCenter punch (hardness ≥ 60 HRC), punch point depth ≤ 0.5mm

Procedures

  1. Positioning and punching point: Use the center punch to make a concave point in the center of the rivet head to prevent the drill bit from slipping. Punch point offset ≤ 0.1mm to avoid drilling eccentricity.
  2. Drill penetration: Aluminum: 3,000 RPM, feed rate 0.1mm/rev. Steel 1,500 RPM, feed rate 0.05mm/rev. Back off every 2mm of drilling and blow off debris with compressed air.
  3. Removal of residues: drill until the head of the rivet is disengaged, tap the bottom with a flat head punch to eject the locking structure. Place a 0.5mm copper pad between the punch and the substrate to prevent surface scratches.

Method 2: Angle grinder cutting method (high strength rivets)

If you want to remove high-strength spr rivets made of boron steel, or if the removal environment doesn’t have a way to operate on the opposite side, then the angle grinder cutting method is the best removal solution. Operators choose this method when field equipment is being repaired or when there is no power.

3 Ways to Remove Self Piercing Rivets - Method-Angle grinder cutting

advance preparation

Tools/ParametersSpecification Requirements
Angle Grinding Machine10,000 RPM, 110mm cutting blade, e.g. Makita GA9020
Cutting BladeDiamond or Aluminum Oxide Cutting Blades 1mm Thick (Grit 80#)
CrowbarTitanium one screwdriver (hardness ≥45 HRC), blade thickness 0.8mm

Procedures

  1. Head cutting: Adjust the angle between the angle grinder and the workpiece to 15°, cut along the outer edge of the head of the rivet, depth to the surface of the substrate. Cutting speed 2-3mm/s, avoid overheating (aluminum temperature <150°C).
  2. Pry off the head: Insert a screwdriver into the cutting seam and slowly pry up the rivet head at an angle of 30°.
  3. Ejecting the stem: Eject the residual part by striking vertically with a punch (diameter = rivet stem x 0.9) from the reverse side of the base material. Spray WD-40 to reduce friction and lower ejection force (≥50%).

Method 3: Hydraulic shovel demolition (professional level)

Hydraulic shovel removal is a professional and efficient method of removing self piercing rivets. It is mainly used to remove a large number of self piercing rivets of the same size, such as automobile production line rework. Engineers choose to apply the Hydraulic Shovel Removal Method for rapid dismantling of body-in-white SPR stations and maintenance of aerospace structural components.

3 Ways to Remove Self Piercing Rivets - Method-Hydraulic shovel demolition

advance preparation

Tools/ParametersSpecification
Hydraulic ShovelBöllhoff RIVSET® dismantling module, pressure range 10-50kN
Mold AdaptationRemoval mold groove diameter = rivet head diameter + 0.1mm (example: 5.1mm mold for 5mm rivet)
Pressure SettingAluminum: 15-20kN, steel: 25-30kN (dynamically adjusted according to the thickness of the substrate)

Procedures

  1. Mold Installation: Select a removal mold that matches the rivet to ensure precise alignment of the recess with the rivet head. Verify the position of the mold using a laser alignment gauge (accuracy ±0.05mm).
  2. Reverse Punching: Start the hydraulic system, the punch impacts the rivet head with set pressure to destroy the locking structure.
  3. Residue cleaning: Use magnetic suction bar to collect the dislodged rivets and check the integrity of the substrate holes (hole enlargement ≤ 0.3mm).

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Wholesale Self Piercing Rivets from Manufacturer

By reading this guide, I’m sure you have a good idea of what tools should be used to remove self piercing rivets in different situations. You have become a qualified technician’s.

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How to Choose Self Piercing Rivets for Aluminum?

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How to Choose Self Piercing Rivets for Aluminum

In today’s era of pursuing lightweight, aluminum is being used more and more. Therefore spr technology is also becoming more and more popular. So do you know how to choose self piercing rivets for aluminum?

By reading this blog, you will learn about the conditions of use, application scenarios, and benefits of self piercing rivets for alulminum.

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Self Piercing Rivets - Basic Overview

Self Piercing Rivets (SPR) is a riveting technique that eliminates the need for pre-cut holes. In recent years, the SPR process has been replacing traditional welding.The principle of SPR is to pressurize two layers of riveted material to form a rigid joint with high strength and low distortion.

What Are Self Piercing Rivets Made of?

How do Self Piercing Rivets Work with Aluminium?

There are many classifications of aluminium alloys, I will use the AA5xxx series (e.g. AA5754), AA6xxx series (e.g. AA6061-T6) as examples.Self piercing rivets need to meet the following conditions if they are to perform well on these types of aluminium:

  • Hardness range: 60-100 HB (matching the recrystallisation softening temperature of aluminium).
  • Tensile strength: ≥ 240 MPa (to ensure sufficient ductility during cold deformation).

Of course, due to the nature of the aluminium material, spr rivets need to be pre-treated. The following are the corresponding requirements:

  • Surface de-oxidised (e.g. chemically cleaned or mechanically polished, Sa value ≥ 2.5).
  • Thickness of anodised layer ≤ 10μm (to avoid passivation film obstructing plastic flow).

Matching of the rivet material to the material to be joined

Matching of the self piercing rivet material to the material to be joined

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Why Use Self Piercing Rivets on Aluminum?

The advantages of Self-Pierce Riveting (SPR) for aluminium can be summarised in the following five core technical values.

I. Circumvention of aluminium thermal connection defects (core advantage)

SPR is a total cold forming process. The installation of SPR requires no heat and generates no heat, which effectively circumvents the following problems arising from aluminium welding.

  • Thermal cracking: Conventional melt welding (e.g. MIG) is prone to cracking of the weld due to the high coefficient of thermal expansion of aluminium (24 x 10-⁶/°C) (as shown in the figure below);
  • Heat-affected zone weakening: avoiding the recrystallisation softening that occurs in aluminium sheet above 300°C (30% drop in HAZ hardness of 6061-T6 base material).
Circumvention of aluminium thermal connection defects (core advantage)

Tesla ditches laser welding for SPR+ gluing in Model S aluminium battery packs. As a result its shear strength is boosted to 12kN.

Ⅱ. Perfect adaptation of heterogeneous material connection

No heat is generated due to the installation process of spr. It is therefore ideally suited for joining dissimilar materials. For example, the efficient connection of aluminium-steel and aluminium-composite materials.

  • The melting point of aluminium (660°C) is much lower than that of steel (1500°C). SPR avoids brittle Fe-Al intermetallic compounds by mechanical interlocking instead of metallurgical bonding.
  • SPR connections of aluminium sheets to carbon fibre reinforced polymers (CFRP) can be up to three times stronger than bonding.

III. Optimisation of surface anti-corrosion properties

Anodic oxide retention of >97% for materials using SPR.

The commonly used anodic oxide film on aluminium (10-25 μm thick) is only slightly abraded (damage area <1 mm²) in SPR cold joints. The electromagnetic forces and high temperatures of resistance welding completely destroy the oxide layer, resulting in a 5-fold faster corrosion rate (salt spray test data comparison: SPR 500 hours without red rust vs. spot welding 100 hours of rusting).

The Audi A8 D5 all-aluminium bodywork with SPR has a 10-year anti-corrosion warranty with no need to return the coating for repair.

IV. Engineering benefits of combining light weight and high strength

1. Weight reduction of 60% compared to conventional bolts

  • Rivet lightweight design: SPR rivets for aluminium are made of high-strength boron steel (density 7.8g/cm³) instead of stainless steel (8.0g/cm³), with a single point weight of only 1.2-2.0g;
  • No additional fasteners required: significant weight reduction benefits compared to bolt + nut combinations (≈5-8g per set).

The Ford F-150 aluminium body uses SPR to reduce the overall vehicle weight by 317kg (with riveting contributing around 18kg).

2. Static and dynamic strength advantages

Static and dynamic strength advantages of spr rivets

V. Environmental protection and automated production fit

1. zero pollution emission

  • No welding fumes: spot welding of aluminium produces Al₂O₃ particles (PM2.5 emission rate >50mg/m³), SPR completely avoids dust pollution and meets ISO 14001 environmental standards.
  • Energy saving and carbon reduction: the energy consumption of SPR at a single point is only 0.05kWh, which is 66% more energy efficient than resistance welding (0.15kWh) (annual CO₂ emission reduction of Volvo’s SPR line is ≈ 320 tonnes).

2. Fully automated production line integration capabilities

BMW Leipzig plant i3 production line deployed ABB robot + SPR workstation, riveting yield > 99.8%.

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Application for Self Piercing Rivets on Aluminium

Self-Piercing Riveting (SPR) has become the technology of choice for aluminium in demanding scenarios in a variety of industries due to its cold joining characteristics of no pre-drilling and no heat input.

Automotive manufacturing (more than 60 per cent of core areas)

1. Steel-aluminium hybrid body structure

Application: roof longitudinal beam, door impact beam, front longitudinal beam.

Process value:

  • Lightweight: 40% weight reduction by replacing steel parts with aluminium.
  • Strength compatibility: aluminium alloy connected to high strength steel (e.g. 22MnB5) with shear strength of 9-11kN, 80% higher than spot welding.
Self Piercing Rivets for Automotive Body Connections

Typical case:

  • Jaguar XJ all-aluminium body: 3,200 SPR rivet points achieve torsional stiffness of 19,000 Nm/°. A 30% improvement over the previous generation’s steel and aluminium structure.
  • Azera ET7: SPR connects high-pressure cast aluminium shock absorber towers to steel plates, optimising the crash-absorbing structure and reducing peak side-impact acceleration by 15%.

2. Battery pack housing and chassis

  • Aluminium shell connection: SPR solves the mechanical synergy between aluminium alloy and structural adhesive, shell sealing surface deformation <0.1mm, better than welding.
  • Case: BYD blade battery pack shell (AA6061) adopts
    SPR + pop rivet composite process, helium leakage rate as low as 0.02cc/hr (industry average 0.1cc/hr);
  • Standardised process: SPR fixed module bracket in Ningde Times CELL TO PACK programme, with single point fatigue life exceeding 1×10⁶ times (load 2kN sine wave).
Self Piercing Rivets for Aluminum - Battery pack housing and chassis

2. Aerospace (high value-added scenarios)

1. Fuselage skin-to-skeleton connection

  • Plate combination: AA2024-T3 aluminium skin (1.2mm) + titanium alloy frame (Ti-6Al-4V).
  • Rivet Selection: Customised titanium SPR rivets (TC4 material, with molybdenum disulphide coating to reduce friction by 20%).
  • Performance index: shear strength ≥12kN, passed -50°C to +150°C thermal cycle test (Airbus A350 standard).

2. Aviation interiors and cargo hold structures

The Boeing 787 cabin magnesium-aluminium alloy frame (AZ31B) is connected to the CFRP floor by SPR, which has helped the aircraft to achieve a weight reduction of 45g at a single point, and a weight reduction of 220kg for the whole aircraft.

3. Rail transport (large-size lightweight structures)

1. High-speed railway/subway car body

Self piercing rivets technology plays a significant role in aluminium profile body splicing. Aluminium profile car body usually adopts AA7xxx series aluminium alloy profiles (e.g. AA7005) lap splicing, SPR allows 0.5-1.0mm assembly tolerance, which improves the efficiency of riveting by 50% compared with traditional riveting.

For example, the roof of the European Talgo 250 train is SPR glued rivet composite process, with a fatigue life of 1×10⁷ times (standard EN 12663).

2. Lightweight containers and frames

When riveting aluminium-magnesium alloy cargo containers, SPR connects AA5083 base plate and Mg-Al-Zn frame, and the bending load resistance can reach 90kN/m (15% higher than MIG welding). And no welding deformation, container assembly flatness error <1mm/10m, reduce operational wind resistance by 3%.

4. Buildings and infrastructure (predominantly non-load-bearing structures)

There are many scenarios where SPR technology is used in construction. But it is generally concentrated on non-load bearing structures.

  • Curtain wall and decorative panel fixing: aluminium composite panel (ACP) installation. SPR replaced chemical anchor bolts in the aluminium curtain wall system of Shanghai Center Building, and the installation efficiency was increased by 40%.
  • Aluminium roof and catwalk connection: shaped aluminium profile splicing. 5 series aluminium alloy (e.g. AA5052) roof panels are sealed and connected by SPR to achieve zero water leakage.
Self Piercing Rivets for Aluminum - Buildings and infrastructure

5. Consumer electronics (emerging areas of penetration)

With the advantages of SPR riveting technology highlights, SPR application industry is more and more. For example, SPR can now connect the AA6063 frame of Huawei’s Matebook X Pro with the stainless steel middle plate, and the precision of a single point can reach ±0.05mm. Apple’s MacBook aluminium hinge also uses SPR technology, and the life span of opening and closing is increased from 30,000 times to 100,000 times.

Custom Self Piercing Rivets Solutions for Your Aluminum Project

By reading this guide, I am sure you are clear about how to choose self piercing rivets for aluminum.If you are looking for a reliable self piercing rivets manufacturer for your aluminum project, Rivmate is an excellent choice for you.

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What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Self Piercing Rivets?

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What is the History of Self Piercing Rivets?

Self piercing rivets are by far the best solution for lightweighting industrial sheet products. This blog will introduce you to the advantages and disadvantages of self piercing rivets.

Through this article you will learn the definition of self piercing rivets, how it works and why you should buy sprits from the manufacturer.

Table of Contents

What is Self Piercing Rivets?

Self-Piercing Riveting (SPR) is a cold joining technology that does not require pre-opening holes. In recent years it has gradually become one of the core processes to replace traditional welding. Its core principle is to drive special rivets to penetrate the upper layer of material through pressure and form a mechanical interlocking structure in the lower layer of substrate, ultimately forming a high-strength, low deformation rigid joint.

Rivmate SPR Rivet(Self piercing rivet)

How do Self Piercing Rivets Work?

Mechanism of formation of mechanical interlocks

The geometry of a self-pierce rivet is precision designed (usually semi-hollow or solid axisymmetric). Under the synergistic action of the punch and the die, the tail of the spr rivet pierces the upper sheet (e.g., aluminum alloy) while the lower material (e.g., steel plate) flows plastically under the constraints of the die’s grooves, wrapping around the rivet to form a button-like latch (see Figure). The key to this cold deformation process lies in the precise control of the relationship between the geometric parameters of the mold, the hardness of the rivet, and the stamping force. For example, in the case of a hybrid aluminum-steel joint, the rivet hardness needs to be set lower than that of the steel plate but higher than that of the aluminum plate to avoid delamination or rupture of the plate.

application of self piercing rivet for automotive industry

Thermodynamic advantages of cold forming

In contrast to conventional welding (e.g. spot welding), SPR is performed at room temperature, with no heat input resulting in phase change of the metal or heat affected zone (HAZ). For example, in the manufacture of aluminum alloy bodies, spot welding can cause the material to melt partially, destroying the anodic oxide layer, whereas SPR preserves the surface coating of the material (e.g., corrosion-resistant plating on the body) intact. The installation of self piercing rivets avoids welding fumes and spatters and complies with the European Union’s ELV regulations on lead, cadmium and other hazardous substances.

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Advantages of Self Piercing Rivets

In automotive manufacturing, spr technology has replaced most welding. This is because spr has many advantages that welding does not have.

1. Efficient process without pre-holing

The SPR is joined by customized rivets (semi-hollow or solid) that penetrate directly into the upper sheet, in parallel with the cold forming process.

How to Install Rivmate Blind Rivet(Self piercing rivet)

Compared to conventional spot welding, self piercing rivets reduce the process flow (pre-treatment + welding + post-treatment) by 30%. Tesla’s Shanghai factory uses Böllhoff SPR equipment (model Rivtec), which allows for single-point joining times of 0.75 seconds (production line data source: Tesla 2023 Sustainability Report).

Case: In BYD Seal model, SPR replaces 60% of welded joints, and the efficiency of the body production line is increased by 18% (Source: Paper for the 2023 Annual Conference of the Chinese Society of Automotive Engineering).

2. Reliable joining of heterogeneous materials

Self piercing rivets have a very high mechanical interlocking strength. For example, the shear strength of aluminum-steel joints from spr can reach 6-10 kN (compared to 2-4 kN for conventional bonding) (experimental data: MDPI Materials 2021).

In the Azera ET5 carbon fiber rear floor and aluminum frame, Azera Motors Manufacturing uses SPR+ structural adhesive, which improves torsional stiffness by 25% (Ref: Azera ET5 Technical White Paper).

3. Surface coating protection capability

Self piercing rivets damage the coating of galvanized steel sheets by only 2-3 mm² (whereas spot welding causes 15-20 mm² damage).

Beyond this, the corrosion protection value of SELF PIERCING RIVETS is very high. The Audi e-tron battery pack housing (made of aluminum) is an example of an SPR connection, and as a result it has an extended salt spray test life of 2,000 hours (compared to 1,200 hours for conventional welding solutions).

4. Environmental characteristics

According to the DTechEx Lightweighting Report, SPR consumes approximately 0.05kWh of energy for a single-point installation (resistance welding requires 0.15kWh), with a 66% reduction in carbon.

And SPR is fully compliant with the German Blue Angel environmental certification (RAL-UZ 205), which emits <5mg/m³ of VOCs (measured data from the plant).

5. Online quality monitoring

Advantages of Self Piercing Rivets - Online quality monitoring

With advances in science, some automotive manufacturers have been able to capture 10kHz stamping force profiles in real time with piezoelectric force sensors (accuracy ±1.5% FS). This technology can detect spr rivet breakage (>15% drop in peak force) or failure to penetrate (>10% increase in peak force) anomalies.

Disadvantages of Self Piercing Rivets

Of course, no technology is perfect. There are advantages and disadvantages.

1. High initial investment

The equipment costs for installing SPR Rivets are very high. A fully automated SPR workstation (with robot, mold bank) is about 800-1.2 million euros (source: Böllhoff quotation 2023), which is 3-4 times more than spot welding equipment (about 250,000 euros).

The introduction of 6 SPR machines at the Zhaoqing plant of China’s Xiaopeng Automobile 2022, with a total investment of more than 50 million yuan, will require a payback period of 4.2 years.

Disadvantages of Self Piercing Rivets -High initial investment

2. Stack thickness limitations

The use of Self piercing rivets has certain requirements on the thickness of the riveted joint. If the thickness of the stack is too thick, it may lead to riveting failure. Usually the total thickness of the aluminum-steel combination ≤ 6mm, of which the aluminum plate ≤ 3mm, steel plate ≤ 2.5mm (more than easy to lead to incomplete locking, see the figure of the failure of the sample).

A Korean Hyundai model had a 60% drop in fatigue life of the SPR joint due to an over-thickness (3.2mm) of the lower steel plate.

Disadvantages of Self Piercing Rivets - Stack thickness limitations

3. Harsh material hardness matching

When riveting with Self piercing rivets, a mismatch between the hardness of the upper and lower layers of material and the hardness of the spr can easily lead to rivet failure.

The hardness gradient rule is as follows:

Lower material hardness ≥ 1.2 x rivet hardness ≥ 1.5 x upper material hardness

Rivtec HB62 rivets (450HV hardness) are suitable for joining AA6061 aluminum alloy (95HB hardness) to DP600 steel (180HB hardness), but have less than 70% lock formation for AA7075 (150HB hardness).

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Conclusion

The core value of SPR technology is applicable to lightweight, multi-material and high corrosion resistance requirements (e.g. new energy vehicles, aviation).

  • Recommended scenarios: mixed-material car body, battery pack shell, aviation interior parts.
  • Scenarios not applicable for the time being: large-thickness joints (>6mm), closed-cavity structures (e.g. C-pillar panels), and production lines with ultra-low cost requirements.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Self Piercing Rivets (1)

Why Buy SPR Rivets from Rivmate Rivet?

Self piercing rivets must always be purchased from a reliable manufacturer or supplier. Since spr rivets are used in so many scenarios in automobiles, the quality of self piercing rivets is a matter of safety of people’s lives and properties.Rivmate rivets is a quality supplier that offers a full range of spr rivets solutions.

Rivmate rivets offers high quality riveting solutions at a much cheaper price than its competitors. In addition, the company has over a decade of experience in providing high quality Self piercing rivets solutions.

Rivmate rivets is also the first rivet factory in China to fully produce self piercing rivets, providing customers with rivet quality that far exceeds international standards.

Ready to buy from Rivmate Rivets? Contact us today.

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Ultimate Guide to Riveting Plastic: Perfect Connection

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Ultimate Guide to Riveting Plastic Perfect Connection

Plastic products flood our lives. That’s why it’s important for manufacturers to consider faster and simpler connections. And riveting plastic offers an excellent solution.

By using riveting to install plastic products, you can increase your productivity by up to 30%! Let’s discover its secrets!

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What is Plastic Riveting?

Nowadays, plastic is an indispensable material in people’s lives. So how manufacturers can install plastic products more quickly is one of the issues people need to pay attention to.

Plastic riveting is a fastening method used to permanently join plastic materials. This method uses rivets to hold two or more plastic parts together. It is widely used in automotive, electronics, home appliances, medical devices, toys and other industries.

Plastic riveting allows for the installation of a combination of different materials, such as plastic + plastic or plastic + metal. Therefore, riveting can provide a high-strength, vibration-resistant, lightweight fastening solution for plastic product manufacturers.

Characteristics of Plastic Materials

5 Benefits of Riveting Plastic

There are many types of fasteners that can be used to install plastic materials, and in the assembly of plastic products, Pop Rivets provide an efficient, stable and durable connection. If your project requires riveting plastic to metal, riveting solutions can deliver exceptional results. Pop rivets offer significant strength, durability and efficiency advantages over screws, glue or welding.

1. For connections between plastics and metals or plastics

In the actual production process, plastics are combined with plastics or metals. For example, automobile dashboards, electronic equipment housings, appliance housings, etc.. And Blind Rivet can realize the fastening of these heterogeneous materials, and will not cut threads on the plastic like screws, resulting in plastic deformation or cracking.

Riveting Plastic:For connections between plastics and metals or plastics

Common riveting scenarios for plastics are listed below:

  • Plastic + Plastic Connections: Electronic equipment housings, plastic product assemblies
  • Plastic + metal connection: automotive interior parts, medical device brackets, appliance fixing components
  • Plastic + Composite Material Connection: Lightweight structural parts

2. No need for threads to avoid plastic damage

The plastic is softer for metal. When you use a screw on a plastic product, the threads of the screw are likely to damage the internal structure of the plastic, causing it to loosen or break. And the core-pulling rivets do not need to cut the threads, which can effectively prevent the following situations from happening:

  • Plastic cracking (especially brittle plastics such as PC, ABS)
  • Loosening after long-term use (threaded connections are prone to loosening due to vibration or temperature changes)
  • Deformation of plastics due to over-tightening
Riveting Plastic Guide for Plastic Project

Therefore, in the actual application process, the emergence of blind rivets in plastic products is still very frequent.

  • Plastic shells of household appliances (washing machines, vacuum cleaners, televisions)
  • Medical equipment (blood pressure monitors, electronic testing instruments)
  • Sports equipment (skis, plastic frame connection)

3. High connection strength, shock and vibration resistance

Compared to other fasteners, the connection of a blind rivet is permanent and will not loosen. The performance of blind rivets is excellent in applications where they are subjected to vibration, shock and vibration. For example, automotive parts, power tools, electronic equipment, these scenarios, rivets in the riveted, rivet tail expansion to form a fastening structure, can effectively disperse the stress and improve the overall strength of the connection.

The advantages of blind rivets in these applications are as follows:

  • More vibration-resistant than screws: screws gradually loosen under prolonged vibration, while rivet connections will not come loose.
  • Impact Resistant: Plastic products can be subjected to impact during transportation or use, and rivets are stronger than bonded or snap fasteners.

4. Suitable for mass production

As we all know, the biggest advantage of blind rivets is that they are very easy and fast to install. Therefore, in industrial production lines, riveting is more efficient than screws or glue. Automated riveting equipment can improve efficiency and reduce manual errors in assembly line operations.

What Are Pop Rivets Used For? - Pop Rivets for Electronic Devices

For manufacturers, blind rivets offer unparalleled production advantages.

  • Faster than screws: screws need to be tightened, rivets are fixed in one pass.
  • Can be automated: Riveting can be done quickly by robots or pneumatic rivet guns.
  • Lower labor costs: no screws to tighten, reducing assembly time.

5. A variety of rivet materials can be selected to meet different needs

Different plastic products have different performance requirements, you can choose different material rivets to adapt:

  • Nylon rivets (Plastic Rivets): for all-plastic structures, light weight, non-conductive, suitable for electronic equipment.
  • Aluminum rivets (Aluminum Rivets): lightweight, suitable for plastic + metal structures, such as appliance housings.
  • Stainless Steel Rivets (Stainless Steel Rivets): high strength, suitable for automotive, medical equipment, outdoor equipment.

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How to Riveting Plastic?

For riveting to be perfect, you need the right riveting plastic. Here is the proper procedure for riveting plastic.

1️⃣ Select the right rivets (plastic, aluminum, exploding rivets, etc.)
2️⃣ Measure & mark drill locations to ensure even distribution
3️⃣ Secure the plastic plate, use a low speed drill to drill and deburr the holes.
4️⃣ Insert rivets and apply force with a suitable rivet gun.
5️⃣ Check the quality of the rivets and fix possible wrong rivets.
6️⃣ Clean up the work area and make sure that the riveted surfaces are clean and presentable.

point of attention

It is important to note that choosing the right type of rivet is important. This will have a direct impact on the safety of your product. According to the type of plastic, connection strength, environmental needs to choose the right type of rivets:

  • Plastic rivets (Nylon Rivets): lightweight, non-conductive, suitable for electronic equipment, automotive interiors.
  • Aluminum Blind Rivets: suitable for plastic + metal connections, such as appliances, automotive components.
  • Stainless Steel Blind Rivets : for corrosion-resistant, high-strength requirements of the application, such as medical equipment, outdoor plastic parts.
  • Exploding Rivets: Rivets with an expanding tail for brittle plastics to prevent cracking.

Frequently Asked Questions about Riveting Plastics

In the process of riveting plastics, it is inevitable that some problems will occur. Below I have listed the common problems as well as their causes and corresponding solutions.

Cracking of Plastic

When riveted, the plastic may crack or rupture when the rivet tail expands. There are generally two reasons for this: 1. The riveting force is too great for the plastic to withstand the pressure. 2. The plastic is too brittle.

Cracking of Plastic - Plastic Riveting Solutions

Solutions:

✔ Select Exploding Rivets or Nylon Rivets to reduce stress concentrations.

✔ Reduce the pressure of the rivet gun to avoid over-expansion of the rivet tail.

✔ Add shims (e.g. rubber washers) to the riveted parts to disperse the stress.

2. Loose or Spinning Rivet

If there is a rivet that is loose or rotatable inside the plastic, this will generally result in an unstable connection. There is a risk of detachment if exposed to vibration for a long period of time.

The possible causes are listed below:

❌ Drill holes are too large for the rivet to fit tightly into the plastic.
❌ The tail of the rivet is not sufficiently expanded, resulting in a poor fixing.
❌ The thickness of the plastic is too thin for the rivet to develop sufficient clamping force.

Solution

✔ Select larger diameter or longer rivets to ensure full tail spread.
✔ Switch to Multigrip Rivets (Multi Clamp Range Rivets) to accommodate different thicknesses of plastic.
✔ Add washers inside the plastic to increase clamping force and improve stability.

Frequently Asked Questions about Riveting Plastics

Plastic Deformation

In thin-walled plastic or soft plastic (e.g. PP, PE) products, after riveting, bulging, denting and bending of the plastic sheet may occur, which seriously affects the appearance and function of the plastic product.

Possible causes
❌ The riveting force is too high and the rivet is over-expanded causing the plastic to deform under pressure.
❌ The plastic sheet is too thin to withstand the riveting pressure.
❌ No support material is used and the plastic lacks sufficient rigidity.

Solution

✔ Select short rivets or low expansion rivets to minimize deformation.
✔ Add shims or metal supports to increase the rigidity of the plastic.
✔ Use a low-pressure rivet gun or manual rivet gun to reduce riveting stress.

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Riveting Plastic vs Screwing vs Adhesive Bonding

Riveting, Screwing and Adhesive Bonding are three common mechanical or chemical fastening methods used in the assembly of plastic products. Different application scenarios have different needs, here is my summary.

  • For high-strength, long-term stable non-removable connections → Riveting
  • For a removable, easy-to-maintain connection → Select Screwing.
  • For aesthetically pleasing connections without exposed fasteners → Adhesive Bonding

In most industrial production, automotive manufacturing, appliance assembly, etc., riveting technology is usually the better choice due to its high strength, durability, and suitability for automated production. Screw joining is suitable for electronic products that require maintenance, while glue bonding is suitable for high-end consumer electronics and specialty applications.

Custom Riveting Solutions for Your Plastic Projects

At Rivmate, as a leading rivet manufacturer, we have provided the perfect riveting solution to hundreds of customers around the world. Trust us to provide customized riveting solutions for your plastic products.

By selecting the optimal rivet type (plastic, aluminum, exploding rivets, etc.) and combining it with precise drilling control and automated riveting processes, we optimize the assembly process to increase product durability and productivity. Whether it’s a plastic + plastic or plastic + metal connection, we have a fastening solution to fit your product needs. If you have assembly needs for plastic components in automotive, electronics, home appliances or medical devices, please contact us for professional, efficient and customized riveting technical support!

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How to Rivet Sheet Metal? Pop Riveting Sheet Metal

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Aircraft Blind Rivets - How to Choose Blind Rivets for Aircraft? - Material Compatibility

Rivets are the most suitable fasteners for joining sheet metal. Do you know how to rivet sheet metal? Do you know how to riveting sheet metal with pop rivets?

By reading this article, you will know exactly how to choose the best rivets for your sheet metal project. This includes how to choose sheet metal rivets and how to install them properly.

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Basic Knowledge of Riveting

What is Riveting?

Riveting is a method of permanent mechanical joining in which two or more materials, usually sheet metal, are fastened together by means of a rivet. In riveting, the rivet is inserted into the material through a drilled hole and mechanically deformed to form a strong connection that cannot be easily removed.

The technique of riveting is used in a wide variety of industries, including aerospace, construction, automotive, electronic equipment, bridge manufacturing, and more. If your project requires strong, durable, vibration-resistant structural connections, riveting is a great solution.

Riveting Mast with Monel Rivets

Riveting vs Welding vs Screw: When to Choose Riveting?

The connection created by riveting is a permanent one. If you have a product that also requires high strength, vibration resistance, no heat effects, or a special material bond, then you should choose riveting. Here are some typical application scenarios:

  1. Joining dissimilar materials: riveting is suitable for joining dissimilar materials (e.g. aluminium + steel, stainless steel + plastic), whereas welding is usually only suitable for metals of the same or similar material. Examples include aircraft skins (aluminium alloy + titanium alloy), car bodies (aluminium + steel).
  2. Materials that cannot withstand high temperatures: riveting is a cold process that does not change the physical properties of the material. Examples include aerospace, electronic equipment housings, lightweight aluminium structures, avoiding the heat affected zone (HAZ) created by welding.
  3. Need to resist vibration and not loosen: riveted joints are more vibration resistant than screws and will not loosen due to long term vibration like screwed joints. Examples include aircraft, rail trains, bridges, and motorbike parts. These structures are subject to constant vibration and should be selected for riveting.
  4. Need long durability, can not be frequently maintained: riveted joints are suitable for structures that can not be frequently overhauled. For example, building bridges, ships, railways, etc. Welding may crack due to fatigue and screws may loosen due to vibration.
  5. Suitable for large-scale automated production: riveting is more suitable for assembly line production than welding.

How to Choose Rivets for Sheet Metal

In sheet metal connections, the choice of the right rivet is critical. This choice will have a direct impact on the strength, durability, corrosion resistance and assembly efficiency of the sheet metal connection. Below is a detailed guide to rivet selection, including rivet type, material, finish and application industry.

1. Types of Rivets Suitable for Sheet Metals

Rivet TypeFeaturesApplication Scenarios
Blind Rivet (Pop Rivet)Single-side operation, easy installation, suitable for mass productionSheet metal, electronics, appliances, automotive interiors
Countersunk Blind RivetFlat surface after riveting, ideal for applications requiring a smooth finishAutomotive, aerospace, furniture
Sealed Blind RivetWaterproof, airtight, suitable for moisture-resistant applicationsShipbuilding, HVAC, outdoor equipment
Self-Piercing Rivet (SPR)No pre-drilling required, directly pierces metal, high strengthAutomotive manufacturing, aluminum sheet metal
Exploding RivetPrevents deformation of soft metals or compositesThin aluminum sheets, electronic enclosures
Multi-Grip RivetSuitable for varying thicknesses, reduces inventorySheet metal fabrication, assembly workshops

Standard blind rivets actually fulfil the strength requirements of the vast majority of sheet metal.

2. Choose the Right Rivet Material

Rivet MaterialFeaturesCompatible Sheet MetalApplication Scenarios
AluminumLightweight, corrosion-resistant, cost-effectiveAluminum, stainless steelAutomotive, home appliances, electronics
Stainless SteelHigh strength, corrosion-resistant, heat-resistantAluminum, stainless steel, carbon steelConstruction, railways, outdoor equipment
Carbon SteelHigh strength but prone to rustSteel, stainless steelBridges, steel structures
Copper/BrassAesthetic appeal, good conductivityCopper, brassElectronics, electrical components

 

Recommended Combinations:

  • Aluminium rivets + Aluminium sheet metal (light weight & corrosion resistant)
  • Stainless Steel Rivet + Stainless Steel Sheet Metal (High Strength & Corrosion Resistance)
  • Aluminium rivets + steel sheet metal (to avoid galvanic corrosion).

3. How do I Select the Correct Rivet Size?

The correct rivet size (diameter & length) will ensure a strong connection without being too tight or too loose.

Rivet Length = Total Material Thickness + 1.5 x Rivet Diameter

  • Thin metal (≤1mm): choose 3.0mm or 3.2mm diameter rivets.
  • Medium thickness (1~2.5mm): choose 4.0mm or 4.8mm diameter
  • Thick metal (≥2.5mm): select 5.0mm or larger

Example (if the total thickness of the two layers of sheet metal = 2mm, select the appropriate rivet):

  • Recommended diameter: 3.2mm or 4.0mm
  • Recommended length: 2mm + (1.5 × 3.2mm) ≈ 6.8mm, use 7mm rivets.
Steel Blind Rivets Size

4. Surface Treatment of Rivets for Sheet Metal

Surface TreatmentFeaturesSuitable Environment
AnodizingEnhances corrosion resistance, suitable for aluminum rivetsOutdoor, humid environments
Zinc PlatingCost-effective rust protectionGeneral industrial use
Stainless Steel Natural FinishBuilt-in corrosion resistanceMarine, chemical environments
Powder CoatingAesthetic appearance, additional protectionFurniture, decorations, signage

5. Recommended rivets for different industries

IndustryRecommended Rivet TypeReason
Automotive ManufacturingSelf-Piercing Rivets (SPR), Aluminum Blind RivetsHigh strength, lightweight, suitable for aluminum sheet metal
Construction & FacadesStainless Steel Sealed RivetsWaterproof, corrosion-resistant, suitable for outdoor structures
Home Appliances & ElectronicsAluminum or Stainless Steel Blind RivetsLightweight, aesthetic, easy assembly
AerospaceSolid Rivets, Countersunk RivetsHigh strength, fatigue resistance
Shipbuilding & MarineStainless Steel Sealed RivetsSaltwater-resistant, waterproof sealing

 

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Preparation of Riveting Sheet Metal

Before riveting thin metal, proper preparation ensures a strong, accurate connection and long service life.

  • Correct rivet type, size, and material selected
  • Metal sheets securely clamped and aligned
  • Drilled holes are clean and deburred
  • Personal safety equipment is in place
  • Work area is organized and free of obstructions

How to Rivet Sheet Metal?

Guide to Step-by-Step Rivet in Sheet Metal

  1. Drill: Begin by drilling the hole where you will place your Rivet.
  2. Insert: Insert the Rivet into the hole.
  3. Rivet: Use a riveting gun with bucking bars to set the Rivet into place.
  4. Inspection: Check that the rivets are flush and secure.
Q Rivets Installation

Inspection after Riveting Sheet Metal

After the installation is complete, we need to do a brief check on the riveting results. Mainly observe the following three parts:

  • Rivet head: whether allowance metal surface, no gap.
  • Rivet tail: whether it is evenly spread and closely fit.
  • Surface flatness: whether the surface of the rivet and the plate is flat.
Dome Head Peel Type Blind Rivets and Large Flange Head Peel Rivets

How to Fix Incorrect Rivet Joints?

Different riveting problems require different repair solutions, the following are common riveting errors and their corresponding repair methods:

Loose or Rotatable Rivets

How the hole in the sheet metal is too large and the rivet is not long enough, then it may result in insufficient riveting force. You will need to replace the rivets with larger diameter or longer rivets to ensure that the rivets can be fully deployed and form a tight joint.

Rivet not fully expanded

What are the Typical Manifestations of Shear Failure of Rivets

Usually pop rivets are not fully expanded because the force applied by the installation tool is not sufficient. Or the rivets themselves are of poor quality. It is necessary to replace the rivets with high quality rivets and adjust the force applied by the tool to ensure that the rivet tails are spread evenly.

Rivet head not adhering to the metal surface

There are two things that can cause this problem: 1. Sheel metal is too thin. 2.The riveting force is too high causing deformation.

In this case you need to use short rivets or add shims on the back.

Broken or excessively deformed rivets

There are three reasons for this problem: 1. too much mounting force applied 2. poor quality rivets 3. wrong material.

You need to use stronger rivets. Also adjust the tension of the rivet gun.

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Custom Pop Rivets for Sheet Metal Project

A blind rivet is a type of rivet designed for sheet metal. Rivmate is one of the top 3 sheet metal rivets manufacturers in China, you can get professional sheet metal rivets solutions.

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