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How to Measure Blind Rivet Grip Range?

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the grip range of blind rivet

Blind rivet grip range and riveting results are closely related. By reading this guide, you will learn the basic definition of blind rivet grip range, its importance, measurement tools, and measurement procedures.

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What is the Blind Rivet Grip Range?

Blind Rivet Grip Range refers to the range of material thicknesses that a rivet can fasten. It represents the minimum and maximum material thicknesses that can be effectively joined by a blind rivet of a particular size.

For example, if a blind rivet has a Grip Range = 1.6mm – 4.8mm, then it can be used for material combinations with a total thickness between 1.6mm and 4.8mm.

Install Multi Grip Blind Rivets

Why is it important to measure blind rivets grip range correctly?

Blind Rivet Grip Range is a critical factor in determining the quality of a riveted joint. Choosing the wrong Grip Range can result in loose rivets, weak joints or material damage. The right blind rivets grip range can bring the following irreplaceable benefits to your project or business:

  • Ensure strong riveted links.
  • Ensure that the rivet is fully functional to avoid connection failure.
  • Increases the strength of the riveted joint and enhances tensile and shear resistance.
  • Avoids material damage and increases service life.
  • Reduce costs and improve riveting efficiency.

Tools Needed to Measure Blind Rivet Grip Range

Before you proceed to measure the blind rivet grip range, you need to prepare the following measuring tools:

  1. Caliper
  2. Steel Ruler
  3. Thickness Gauge
  4. Rivet Specification Chart

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Measure Blind Rivet Grip Range

step1: Calculate the total thickness of the material

Grip Range refers to the range of material thicknesses that the rivet can fasten, so we need to first measure the sum of the thicknesses of all the materials to be joined.

  • If it is a single layer material, use vernier calipers or thickness gauge to measure the material thickness.
  • For multi-layer materials (e.g. metal + shim + composite), add up the thicknesses of all layers to calculate the overall thickness.
Applications of Multi grip Pop Rivets

Example calculation:

Sheet metal = 1.5mm

Gasket = 0.5mm

Composite material = 2.0mm

Total thickness = 1.5mm + 0.5mm + 2.0mm = 4.0mm

You will need to select Grip Range to cover 4.0mm thick blind rivets.

step2: Precise measurements with measuring tools

Tool NamePurposeApplicable Situation
CaliperPrecisely measures the thickness of metal, plastic, and other materialsHigh-precision requirements
Thickness GaugeMeasures the thickness of thin sheet materialsSuitable for sheet metal, plastics
Steel RulerRough measurement of larger material thicknessLow-precision requirements
Grip Range Specification ChartCompares rivet specifications with material thicknessSelecting the correct rivet

Measurement steps:

✔ Measure the thickness of the material using a vernier caliper, accurate to 0.1mm.
✔ If the surface of the material is uneven, measure multiple points and take the average value.
✔ If the material is multi-layer, measure layer by layer and totalize to calculate the total thickness.

step3: Selecting the Right Grip Range

After measuring the total material thickness, you will need to consult the rivet specification sheet. Select the Grip Range that will cover that thickness.

Grip Range Selection Example:

Total material thickness(mm)Recommended  Grip Range(mm)Recommended Rivet Length(mm)
0.5 – 1.5mm0.5 – 2.0mm4 – 5mm
1.6 – 3.2mm1.6 – 4.0mm6 – 8mm
3.2 – 4.8mm3.2 – 5.0mm8 – 10mm
4.8 – 6.4mm4.8 – 7.0mm10 – 12mm

 

It is important to ensure that the Grip Range fully covers the material thickness to avoid using rivets that are too short or too long.

  • Example 1: If the total measured material thickness is 3.8mm, a rivet with Grip Range = 1.6mm – 4.8mm can be selected.
  • Example 2: If the total thickness is 6.2mm, select rivets with a Grip Range = 4.8mm – 7.0mm.

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The Relationship Between Blind Rivets Grip Range and Rivet Body Lengths

Blind Rivet Body and Blind Rivet Mandrel

The blind rivet grip range is determined by the rivet body length and rivet type. Typically, the rivet length is > Grip Range so that the end of the rivet has enough material to expand to form the head.

Grip Range (mm)Recommended Rivet Length (mm)
0.5 – 2.0mm5 – 6mm
1.6 – 4.0mm6 – 8mm
3.2 – 5.0mm8 – 10mm
4.8 – 7.0mm10 – 12mm
6.4 – 9.5mm12 – 16mm

Typically, the rivet length is approximately 1.5 – 2 times the upper limit of the Grip Range to ensure proper deformation of the rivet.

Common Mistakes When Measuring Blind Rivet Grip Range

1. Neglecting total material thickness calculation errors

Common error:

  • Failure to calculate the total thickness of all materials and measuring the thickness of only one of the layers.
  • Thickness of shims, coatings, or adhesives are ignored, resulting in the Grip Range selected being too short.
  • Inconsistent thickness measurements in different areas, not averaged.

Use vernier calipers or a thickness gauge to accurately measure the thickness of each layer of material and total all layers. Note the need to include any additional spacer layers (e.g., coatings, glues, sealing gaskets, etc.) to ensure that the proper Grip Range is selected.To minimize errors, take measurements at multiple points and average the values to minimize errors.

2. Ignore Grip Range vs. Rivet Length

In practice, the rivet body is larger than the grip range. If the Grip Range is mistakenly assumed to be equal to the length of the rivet, the tail of the rivet will not expand sufficiently.

So when choosing the right rivets for your business, you need to use the recommended grip range with the rivet length against the photo to avoid problems.

3. Choosing the wrong type of rivet

For the vast majority of rivets, all of the above applies. However, there is one particular type of blind rivet — multi grip blind rivets — that is not applicable.

Multi grip blind rivets are blind rivets with a wide grip range and can be riveted to a wide range of thicknesses. Typically, multi grip blind rivets of the same size can be riveted to a wide range of thicknesses.

Custom Blind Rivet Grip Range for your Project

By reading this guide, I’m sure you’ve got a basic understanding of the blind rivets grip range. If you don’t know how to meaure blind rivets grip range or want to customize special blind rivet grip range, please contact us!

Rivmate is a top rivet manufacturer in China, which can well meet your customization needs.

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Why Pop Rivet Mandrel not Breaking?

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Why Pop Rivet Mandrel not Breaking

Why pop rivet mandrel not breaking? There are many reasons that can cause this problem and we need to troubleshoot it step by step. Usually it is because of using low quality pop rivets, mismatch of pop rivets and tools and wrong use of tools.

By reading this blog, you will learn about the common causes of “pop rivet mandrel not breaking” and the solutions.

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What is Pop Rivet Mandrel not Breaking?

The pop rivet mandrel not breaking is a phenomenon in which the core of the nail is not pulled off normally during installation. If this occurs it may result in rivet failure or insufficient joint strength.

Types of Blind Rivet Mandrel

Blind Rivet mandrel unbroken problem in the use of the more common riveting faults, the frequency of its occurrence is closely related to the operating specifications, the state of the tool and rivet selection. The following are possible causes of this problem:

  • Insufficient rivet gun power or air pressure
  • Rivet gun claws worn or improperly adjusted
  • Rivet length and riveting thickness mismatch
  • Nail core quality problems

6 Common Causes of Pop Rivets Mandrel not Breaking

There are many reasons why pop rivets mandrel not breaking. Next I will list the 6 most common reasons. This will solve most of your problems.

1. Excessive core tension

Nail core tension designed to exceed the tolerance limit of the rivet material may result in the rivet mandrel being pulled out as a whole rather than breaking normally. This is usually associated with improper rivet manufacturing processes or material selection, such as substandard heat treatment or excessive core strength.

2. Nail core cap diameter is small

6 Common Causes of Pop Rivets Mandrel not Breaking

Rivet head with too small a diameter can result in insufficient friction with the inner hole of the rivet body to create effective resistance during the riveting process, so that the nail core is completely pulled out. In this case, the core cap is unable to create sufficient expansion pressure inside the rivet body.

3. Rivet body material is too soft

If the rivet body material is not hard enough (e.g., over annealed or not properly heat treated), the rivet body will not effectively clamp the core under force, resulting in core slippage. A soft rivet body may also cause problems such as loosening or cracking after riveting.

4. Excessive lubrication of the rivet bore surface

Excessive lubrication of the rivet bore can significantly reduce the frictional resistance between the core and the rivet body, making it easier for the core to be pulled out as a whole. This can be caused by excessive lubrication during the manufacturing process or improper surface preparation.

5. Underpowered or improperly adjusted rivet guns

6 Common Causes of Pop Rivets Mandrel not Breaking

Insufficient power to the rivet gun (e.g., low air pressure or loss of hydraulic fluid) may result in an incomplete riveting stroke, preventing sufficient tension from being applied to break the nail core at the intended location. In addition, a worn rivet gun jaw or failure to adjust to the same plane may cause a shearing effect on the nail core instead of normal tensile breakage.

6. Rivet and workpiece thickness mismatch

If the rivet length is too long and the riveted workpiece is thin, the distance between the core break and the core head exceeds the actual riveted thickness, which may result in the core slipping off directly without being pulled off.

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How to Troubleshoot “Pop Rivet Mandrel not Breaking”?

In addition to encountering the cause of the problem, we need to engage in problem solving. By following these steps you can easily solve pop rivets mandrel not breadking problem.

Step 1: Check and clean rivet gun jaws (Jaws)

There are many reasons why pop rivets mandrel not breaking, first check the rivet gun jaws.

  • Worn or damaged gripping jaws that prevent firm gripping of the mandrel.
  • Metal shavings or dirt inside the jaws, affecting gripping ability.
  • Loose or damaged jaw springs, resulting in insufficient clamping force.
RIVMATE H6065 Pneumatic Lockbolt tool

The following steps can be followed to check for problems with the clamping jaws.

  1. Disassemble the jaw assembly and inspect for visible wear or cracks.
  2. Clean the clamping jaws using compressed air or a brush to remove metal shavings and dust.
  3. Apply an appropriate amount of lubricant to maintain the flexibility of the clamping jaws.
  4. If the jaws are badly worn, replace them with new jaws to ensure a secure grip on the mandrel.

Step 2: Ensure that the rivet specification matches the workpiece

In addition to a faulty rivet gun jaw, there may be a mismatch in rivet size.

  • Wrong choice of rivet diameter or length, resulting in the core bar not being able to generate sufficient shear force to fracture.
  • Rivet material is too hard or too soft, affecting the fracture behavior of the core bar.
How to Troubleshoot “Pop Rivet Mandrel not Breaking”

The inspection steps are as follows:

  1. Check that the diameter and length of the rivets meet the requirements of the workpiece thickness.
  2. Select the type of rivet that is suitable for the rivet gun (e.g. stainless steel rivets require greater tension).
  3. Avoid using low quality or inferior rivets and make sure they meet industry standards.

Step 3: Maintaining the internal components of the rivet gun

Rivet size is fine, jaws are fine. Then there may be a failure in the internal components of the rivet gun.

  • Carbon buildup or sticking of the piston or cylinder that prevents the rivet gun from producing sufficient pulling force.
  • Deteriorated or damaged internal seals (O-Ring) affecting the power output of the pneumatic rivet gun.
  • Leaks or insufficient pressure in the hydraulic system (for hydraulic rivet guns)
How to Troubleshoot “Pop Rivet Mandrel not Breaking”

In order to solve this problem, the following elements need to be done when using it:

  1. Periodically disassemble the rivet gun and clean the internal parts to prevent carbon buildup or clogging by foreign objects.
  2. Check whether the sealing ring (O-Ring) is aging or deformed, and replace with new parts if necessary.
  3. Check the pneumatic system or hydraulic system for air or oil leaks to ensure adequate working pressure.

Step 4: Adjusting the Rivet Gun Tension Setting

If the rivets are OK, then it is likely that the rivet gun tension is set incorrectly.

  • Tension set too low, resulting in the mandrel not being pulled off sufficiently.
  • Insufficient rivet pulling stroke to generate sufficient shear force.
Pros of Rivet Guns

To adjust the rivet gun proceed as follows:

  1. Adjust the air pressure of the pneumatic rivet gun (typically 90-120 PSI) to ensure adequate tension is provided.
  2. If using an electric or hydraulic rivet gun, adjust the tension output parameters to suit the rivet material and specifications.
  3. Test different rivet gun settings to find the proper tension setting.

Step 5: Ensure proper riveting operation

It could also be an operational problem.

  • The rivet gun is not vertically aligned with the rivet, resulting in uneven distribution of tension and failure of the mandrel to break properly.
  • Failure to hold the rivet gun tightly against the surface of the workpiece, resulting in incomplete deformation of the rivet.
  • Releasing the trigger too soon, resulting in the mandrel not being fully sheared.
5 Types of Pop Rivets for Metal and Their Uses

Solution:

  1. Ensure that the rivet gun is vertically aligned with the surface of the workpiece to avoid skewed pull rivets.
  2. Hold the muzzle of the rivet gun firmly against the surface of the workpiece to ensure that the head of the rivet is fully deformed.
  3. Press and hold the trigger until you hear a “pop” sound, and then release it after confirming that the mandrel is completely broken.

Step 6: Changing Rivet Gun or Rivet Type

Possible causes:

  • Mismatch between the rivet gun and the rivet, e.g. using a lightweight rivet gun to install high strength rivets.
  • Mandrel material is too stiff and requires a tool with greater tension to break.

Solution:

  1. Check that the pulling power capacity of the rivet gun is suitable for the current rivet type.
  2. If the rivet material is hard (e.g. stainless steel), consider using a higher power rivet gun.
  3. Use brand name quality, reliable rivets to ensure that the mandrel design meets standard breaking forces.

How to Prevent Pop Rivet Mandrel Not Breaking?

How to Prevent Pop Rivet Mandrel Not Breaking?

So how should you avoid pop rivet mandrel not breaking this problem in advance? You need to take some measures in advance. For example:

  • Regularly train operators to ensure that they have the correct riveting techniques and tool usage.
  • Establish and follow a maintenance program for the rivet gun and regularly inspect and service the equipment.
  • Select high quality rivets and rivet guns to ensure the reliability of tools and consumables.

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Custom High Quality Pop Rivets for Your Business

Want to avoid problems using out rivets? Want to provide your customers with high quality pop rivets? Then you need to find a reliable rivet manufacturer, Rivmate is a leading global rivet manufacturer that has supplied a large number of high quality rivets to the world’s leading rivet brands.

If you want to buy high quality rivets or perfect riveting solutions, please contact our engineers!

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5 Types of Pop Rivets for Metal and Their Uses

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5 Types of Pop Rivets for Metal and Their Uses

There are many types of pop rivets for metal. But choosing the most suitable one is difficult. This blog will introduce you to 5 types of pop rivets for metal, their uses, how to choose and the pros and cons of pop rivets for metal.

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POP rivets are fasteners that allow material connections to be made by unilateral operation. It consists of two parts: a hollow rivet body (cap) and a mandrel (spigot). During installation, the mandrel is broken by tension applied by a tool (e.g. rivet gun) and the rivet tail expands to form a permanent fixing.

Types of Pop Rivets

Difference between pop rivets and other rivets types

Comparison CriteriaPOP Rivets (Blind Rivets)Solid RivetsStructural Rivets
InstallationSingle-side access; tool pulls and snaps mandrel to form a headRequires two-side access; hammering or pressing requiredRequires specialized equipment (e.g., hydraulic tools)
StructureHollow body with a breakable mandrelSolid material deformed on both endsHigh-strength solid design for heavy loads
ApplicationsLightweight assemblies (electronics, furniture)Heavy machinery, bridgesAerospace, construction (critical joints)
ReversibilityPermanent; removal requires destructionPermanent; removal via drilling/cuttingPermanent; requires specialized removal
Cost & EfficiencyLow cost, fast installationHigher labor cost, slower processHigh equipment cost but superior strength

 

5 Types of Pop Rivets for Metal and Their Uses

There are many types of rivets applied to metal materials. Next I will list 5 common types of pop rivets for metal and their uses.

open end pop rivets are suitable for general metal connections. It consists of a rivet body and a rivet mandrel, which are installed with a mandrel break to form the fastening.

  • It is widely used for quick connection of metal plates and thin-walled tubes. Such as air conditioning systems, electrical cabinet assembly.
  • Suitable for scenarios that require one-sided operation. For example, riveting of vehicle interiors or mechanical equipment housings.
Stainless Steel Open type blind pop rivet

Closed end pop rivets are mainly used on metal connections where there is a need to prevent the leakage of liquids or gases. closed end blind rivets have a rivet body head that is completely closed to form a watertight sealing structure. Common applications are as follows:

  • Ships, outdoor equipment and other metal connections that require waterproofing, such as ship riveting, outdoor electrical box sealing.
  • Connections of waterproof parts of the body in automobile manufacturing (e.g. doors, hoods).
Rivmate Aluminum Sealed Type Blind Pop Rivet

Large flange head pop rivets have very large flange diameters to provide wider contact surfaces and load dispersion. Common applications on metallic materials are listed below:

  • Connection of thin plates to thick metals (e.g. railroad car bodies and chassis).
  • Metal structures in high vibration environments (e.g. aircraft interiors, industrial machinery) to prevent loosening.
Large Flange Head Blind Rivets

Multi grip pop rivets are high strength blind rivets that can be adapted to metal materials with varying thicknesses. Its most important feature is that a single size rivet can cover a wide range of sheet thickness combinations, which can effectively reduce inventory specifications. multi grip pop rivets are typically used in the following industries:

  • New Energy Vehicle Battery Tray: using aluminum Multi Grip Rivets to achieve a balance of lightweight and high strength.
  • Logistics storage racks: Replace bolts with high shear rivets to avoid the risk of loosening.
  • Outdoor equipment cabinets: Stainless steel with a closed design to withstand humid environments.
Applications of Multi grip Pop Rivets

Structural pop rivets are used primarily on metal structures that require high strength connections. Structural rivets use interference technology, the mandrel breaks to form a large nail tail to spread the load, so it has high shear and tensile strength. structural pop rivets are generally load-bearing structures.

  • High-strength connections in automobile manufacturing (e.g. body to chassis, battery pack fixing).
  • Thick and thin plate connections in rail transportation and building steel structures (e.g. bridges, electrical cabinets).
What are monobolt rivets

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How to Choose Pop Rivets for Metal?

For the best riveting effect, you need to choose the most suitable pop rivets for your metal project.

Depending on the type of metal material

  • Ordinary carbon steel / low alloy steel: recommended aluminum rivets or steel rivets. If you need lightweight and no high strength requirements, aluminum rivets (such as 5052/5056 aluminum alloy) can meet the needs; if you need high shear strength, prefer steel rivets (such as carbon steel or stainless steel). It should be noted that steel rivets need to be galvanized or coated to prevent corrosion.
  • Stainless steel: Stainless steel rivets (e.g. 304/316) are recommended. Stainless steel and carbon steel contact prone to galvanic corrosion, need to avoid mixing materials. If you have to mix the materials, you can use rivets with insulating sleeve or add sealant to isolate.
  • Aluminum alloy: recommended aluminum or aluminum-plated rivets. Aluminum alloy rivets (such as 5056) lightweight and corrosion-resistant, suitable for non-load-bearing structure; if you need more strength, you can choose titanium alloy rivets.
  • Copper/Titanium Alloys: Titanium or nickel-based alloy rivets are recommended. Copper alloys need to be matched with rivets of the same material to prevent corrosion; titanium alloy rivets are high-temperature resistant and strong, suitable for aerospace applications.

Depending on metal thickness

Do Pop Rivets Leak? - The Comprehensive Guide-Rivmate Aluminum Closed Blind Pop Rivet
  1. Thin plate (<4mm): the applicable rivet diameter of 3-4mm, length 6-12mm. need to choose short shank rivets to avoid excessive deformation, give priority to the use of open end type rivets.
  2. Medium-thick plate (4-20mm): the applicable rivet diameter of 4-6mm, length 12-25mm. multi grip pop rivets or structural rivets are recommended to enhance the clamping force; if the material hardness is high (such as high carbon steel), it is necessary to match with high tensile strength rivets (such as steel).
  3. Extra-thick plate (>20mm): suitable for rivet diameter 6-8mm, length 25-50mm. need to use high-strength structural rivets (such as steel or titanium alloy), and with pneumatic riveting tools to ensure penetration.

Depending on application environment

Automatic Riveting Stainless Steel Products
  • Humid/corrosive environment: choose stainless steel, galvanized steel or aluminum-magnesium alloy rivets, avoid ordinary carbon steel. (Plating requirements: hot-dip galvanized layer ≥ 318g/m² or use PVDF coated color steel matching rivets.)
  • High-temperature environment: heat-resistant alloy rivets (such as nickel-based alloy) can withstand high temperatures of more than 800 ℃; ordinary steel rivets applicable temperature ≤ 300 ℃.
  • Vibration/fatigue environment: Priority is given to closed end or internal locking rivets to reduce the risk of loosening; structural rivets (e.g., Monobolt) can enhance the anti-fatigue performance.

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Pros and Cons of Pop Rivets for Metal

Pros

The core advantages of pop rivets for metal are as follows:

  1. Single-side mounting capability
  2. Suitable for complex spaces
  3. High installation efficiency
  4. No heating or welding machine required
  5. Adaptation to diverse material combinations
  6. No risk of thermal damage
  7. Shallow hole requirements
Why Use Blind Rivets in Metal Furring

Cons

  1. Lower strength than traditional rivets and welds
  2. Irreversible connections
  3. Material and environmental compatibility limitations
  4. Insufficient surface flatness
  5. Multi-layer thickness adaptation challenges

Frequently Asked Questions about Pop Rivets for Metal

How Thick of metal can you rivet?

Ordinary POP rivets are suitable for ≤10mm metal; multi-clamp and structural rivets can be extended to 25~30mm. when the total thickness of the plate>15mm, preferred to choose “High-Strength” or “Structural” rivets with high power tools. When the total thickness of the sheet is >15mm, the rivets labeled with “High-Strength” or “Structural” are preferred, together with high-power tools.

what are the strongest rivets for metal?

If you are looking for maximum strength, prefer structural rivets or hemlok rivets with high carbon steel/stainless steel. Meanwhile, it is necessary to pay attention to the matching of tools and installation specifications to ensure the riveting effect.

Custom Pop Rivets for Metal with Rivmate

Are you looking for a reliable pop rivets manufacturer for your METAL project? Don’t worry, Rivmate will provide you with pop rivets that are of high quality and fully meet your requirements.

Get pop rivets for testing immediately.

Get Rivets Quote

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The Comprehensive Guide to Flat Head Rivets are Used in

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3 8″ Blind Pop Rivets Wholesale

By reading this article, you will get to know the information about flat head rivets are used in. Includes concepts, features, and applications of flat head rivets.

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Flat Head Rivets: Basic Overview

what are flat head rivets?

Flat Head Rivets are rivets with a thin, flat head. This type of rivet is used in applications where smooth surfaces are required, such as in the aerospace, automotive, electronics, and construction industries.

Flat head rivets fit as close to the work surface as possible after riveting, minimizing protrusions that can block or interfere with the proper functioning of other components. And it can be used for joining metals, plastics, composites and other materials.

Colored Dome Head Blind Rivets

Why Choose Flat Head Blind Rivets?

  1. Low-profile and beautiful surface finish: flat head rivets have a flat head, which is flush with the surface of the material after riveting, reducing protruding parts and enhancing the overall appearance. Therefore very suitable for applications where a smooth surface is required.
  2. High strength and durability: Flat head rivets are suitable for joining metals, composites, plastics and other materials. It provides stable shear and tensile strength on all these materials.
  3. Compatible with automatic assembly: Many production lines use pneumatic riveting tools to install flat head rivets to improve assembly efficiency.
  4. Suitable for Precision and lightweight designs: The flat head design reduces material deformation and is suitable for thin panels or lightweight structures.

Applications of Flat Head Rivets are Used in

Flat Head Blind Rivets are widely used in a variety of industries due to their flat appearance, ability to be mounted on one side, and high strength connections. Flat head blind rivets are often used in applications that require a smooth appearance, a solid fixing and no access to the backside.

Automotive Industry

🚗 Application Scenario:

  • Body panel fixing (such as door panels, hoods, bumpers)
  • Automotive interior parts mounting (seat skeleton, dashboard bracket)
  • Riveting of exhaust and cooling systems
  • Lightweight metal to plastic component joining
What are Car Body RIVETS

Why use flat head blind rivets in automobiles?

  • Low profile design to reduce wind resistance and improve aerodynamic performance
  • Strong vibration resistance, suitable for vehicles traveling for a long period of time
  • Can join different materials, such as aluminum-plastic, steel-composite materials

Aerospace Industry

✈ Application Scenario:

  • Fuselage skin splicing (aluminum alloy, titanium alloy structure)
  • Fixing of seats, luggage racks and bulkheads
  • Riveting of hatch and wing components
Why do Airplanes Use Rivets Instead of Welds?

Why use flat head blind rivets?

  • Lightweight design, reduce aircraft weight and increase fuel efficiency
  • Suitable for high-strength, corrosion-resistant materials (e.g. stainless steel, aluminum alloy)
  • Comply with aerospace standards to provide a reliable and durable connection

Metal Fabrication & Sheet Metal Industry

⚙ Application Scenario:

  • Metal frame structure splicing (e.g. cabinet, control box)
  • Steel doors and windows splicing
  • Outdoor metal facilities fixed (such as billboards, guardrails)
How to Choose the Right Rivets for Window

Why flat head rivets are used in metal fabrication?

  • Can be installed on one side to improve construction efficiency
  • Suitable for different materials such as steel, stainless steel, aluminum and so on
  • Smooth surface after riveting, suitable for high-precision sheet metal processing

Electronics & Home Appliances

📱 Application Scenario:

  • Assembly of electronic chassis, server cabinet
  • Home appliance shell fixing (such as washing machine, refrigerator, air conditioner)
  • Solar racking, battery box riveting

Why flat head rivets are used in home applications?

  • Beautiful and flat, does not affect the appearance of the product
  • High strength fixing, prevent equipment vibration or loosening.
  • Suitable for light metal plates & plastic housings

Construction & Interior Design

🏗 Application Scenario:

  • Curtain wall, aluminum alloy doors and windows splicing
  • Metal guardrail, stair handrail installation
  • Ventilation ducts, ceiling system fixing
Speed Rivets for Lightweight Construction

Why use flat head blind rivets?

  • Corrosion resistance, suitable for outdoor long-term exposure environment
  • Flat design, suitable for modern building decoration
  • Simple to apply, can be operated on one side, suitable for complex structures

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Material Compatibility of Flat Head Rivets

Riveting Aluminum

Aluminum is a lightweight material that is riveted to create a strong but lightweight joint. Generally, the combination of aluminum rivets + aluminum plate will be used to match, which can avoid galvanic corrosion and improve durability.

However, the disadvantage is also obvious, the overall strength is low, not suitable for high load structure on the

Related Blog: Riveting Aluminum

Riveting Steel

Riveted Connections in Steel Structures - How to Choose Pop Rivets for Steel Structures?

When flat head rivets are riveted to STEEL materials, it tends to be on heavy structures. If you use a combination of stainless steel rivets + steel plate, you can effectively prevent corrosion problems. This pairing can provide strong impact resistance and high temperature resistance.

But the disadvantage is that it is prone to rust and needs to be galvanized. And heavier.

Related Blog: Riveting Steel

Riveting Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is extremely resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for use in wet and chemical environments. Stainless steel rivets are often chosen for riveting stainless steel materials.

It should be noted that when riveting stainless steel rivets, a greater pulling force is required, which places higher demands on the tools. And the price of stainless steel rivets is higher.

Dome Head Peel Type Blind Rivets and Large Flange Head Peel Rivets

Riveting Plastic and composite materials

Flat head rivets are ideal for joining plastic-plastic or plastic-metal structures. However, the force applied during riveting is relatively low.

Flat head rivets can be riveted to materials such as GFRP and CFRP. However, a low stress riveting process is required in order to prevent material breakage.

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Large Flange Open Type Blind Rivets

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What is the Material Used to Manufacture Rivets?

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Raw Material Selection - What is The Process of Making A Rivet?​

Do you know what is the materials used to manufacture rivets? Do you know how different rivets made from different materials they will behave differently? By reading this guide, you will learn all about that. You can even know the price difference between rivets made of different materials. Let’s explore this together.

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What is the Materials Used to Manufacture Rivets?

Rivets are usually made of metal materials. In order to meet the different needs for strength in different applications, there are a number of metal materials that can be used to manufacture rivets, all of which have different properties from each other. The common metal materials used to manufacture rivets are listed below:

  • Aluminum
  • Steel
  • Stainless Steel
  • Copper
  • Brass
  • Monel
  • Titanium
  • Nickel Alloy
Custom Raw Material

Below is a comparison of the performance of rivets made from different materials.

Rivet MaterialStrengthCorrosion ResistanceWeightCostSuitable Applications
Aluminum AlloyLowHighLightLowAerospace, Automotive
Carbon SteelHighLow (requires anti-corrosion treatment)HeavyLowMachinery, Construction
Stainless SteelMedium-HighHighHeavyMedium-HighShipbuilding, Food Industry
CopperLowHighHeavyMediumElectrical, Decorative Applications
BrassMediumHighHeavyMediumInstruments, Furniture
Titanium AlloyHighVery HighLightHighAerospace, Medical Equipment
Nickel-Based AlloyVery HighVery HighHeavyVery HighChemical, Marine Environments

Influence of Material on Rivet Performance

The material determines the strength and durability of the rivet.

Influence of material on rivet strength

Rivets made with high-strength materials (e.g. carbon steel, stainless steel, titanium alloys) are stronger. Suitable for high load applications such as bridges, mechanical equipment, aerospace structures.

  • Carbon steel rivets (especially medium and high carbon steel) have high tensile strength and are suitable for structures subjected to high stress.
  • Titanium alloy rivets are lighter in weight while maintaining high strength, making them suitable for lightweight design needs (e.g., aircraft manufacturing).
What Are Pop Rivets Used For? - Pop Rivets for Electronic Devices

Rivets made with medium strength materials (e.g. brass, nickel-based alloys) are of average strength. Suitable for scenarios with medium strength and corrosion resistance requirements, such as chemical equipment and shipbuilding.

Rivets made with low strength materials (e.g. aluminum alloys, copper) have very low strength. They are primarily used in lightweight structures such as aerospace skins and electronic equipment housings. But despite their low strength, aluminum rivets are widely used in the automotive and aerospace industries because of their light weight and corrosion resistance.

Influence of material on rivet durability

The durability of rivets is mainly affected by corrosion resistance, fatigue life, heat resistance and other factors.

corrosion resistance

The durability of rivets of different materials in wet, high salt, acid and alkali environments varies significantly. Stainless steel rivets (such as 304, 316 stainless steel) have good corrosion resistance. Aluminum alloy rivets have good oxidation resistance. Carbon steel rivets are easy to rust, usually need galvanized, nickel-plated and other surface treatment to improve corrosion resistance. Nickel-based alloy rivets (such as monel alloy) in strong acid, alkali, high temperature environment with excellent performance, commonly used in chemical and marine industries.

Monel Blind Rivets - Prevention of Galvanic Corrosion

fatigue life

The durability of rivets under long-term vibration and alternating loads depends on the fatigue properties of the material:

  • Titanium alloy rivets: high fatigue strength, suitable for aircraft, high-performance automobiles.
  • Stainless steel rivets: better fatigue resistance, suitable for mechanical equipment and construction industry.
  • Aluminum rivets: shorter fatigue life, prolonged vibration may lead to cracking, but suitable for light load scenarios.

heat resistance

The stability of rivets in high temperature environments depends on the heat resistance of the material.

  • Carbon steel rivets: strength decreases above 400°C.
  • Stainless steel rivets (e.g. 316 stainless steel): can withstand temperatures up to 600°C.
  • Titanium alloy rivets: retain high strength at 800°C.
  • Nickel-based alloy rivets (e.g. Inconel 718): retain strength above 1000°C.

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Differences in the Cost of Rivets Made of Different Metal Materials

The cost of rivets manufactured from different metal materials is mainly influenced by factors such as raw material prices, processing difficulty, durability and market availability. Below is the cost analysis and comparison of various rivet materials.

Key factors affecting the cost of rivets

  1. Raw material prices: the main cost of rivets from the metal raw materials, different metal prices fluctuate greatly. Such as titanium alloy and nickel-based alloys are far more expensive than aluminum and carbon steel.
  2. Processing difficulty: some materials (such as stainless steel, titanium alloy) high hardness, processing costs are higher, requiring special tools and technology.
  3. Durability and service life: high corrosion resistance and high strength rivets have a longer service life, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
  4. Market supply: commonly used materials (e.g., carbon steel, aluminum) are in sufficient supply and at lower prices. While the supply of high-end alloy materials is limited and prices are higher.

Comparison of Material Costs for Various Types of Rivets

Rivet MaterialRaw Material CostProcessing DifficultyDurabilityOverall Cost
AluminumLowLow (Easy to process)Medium (Corrosion-resistant)Low
Carbon SteelLowestLow (Easy to process)Low (Requires anti-corrosion treatment)Lowest
Stainless SteelMediumMedium (High hardness, higher processing cost)High (Corrosion-resistant)Medium-High
CopperMedium-HighLow (Easy to process)High (Corrosion-resistant, Good conductivity)Medium-High
Titanium AlloyHighHigh (Difficult to process, requires specialized equipment)Very High (Lightweight, High Strength, Corrosion-resistant)High
MonelHighestVery High (Difficult to process, High-Temperature Resistance)Very High (Acid & Alkali Resistant, High-Temperature Resistant)Highest

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Wholesale Rivets from Rivet Factory

If you are looking for reliable rivet manufacturers, please contact us.Rivmate is a top China rivet factory, which can provide you with rivets made of different materials. Besides that, we can also provide customized riveting solutions for your projects.

Before placing a formal order, please obtain a sample of rivets for testing.

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Why is My Air Pop Rivet Gun Not Working?

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Pros of Rivet Guns

For the question “why is my air pop rivet gun not working”, this guide lists 7 possible reasons in detail, and gives you how to judge and the corresponding solutions. By reading this article, I believe you will be able to solve the problem of your rivet gun not working.

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What are Air Pop Rivet Guns?

A air blind rivet gun is a tool that utilizes compressed air to drive a tool designed for the installation of blind rivets (also known as pull rivets). It installs blind rivets quickly and efficiently and is ideal for high volume work. It is therefore widely used in areas where high strength connections are required, such as automotive manufacturing, aerospace, construction and electronic equipment assembly.

Best Pneumatic Rivet Gun

The core parts of the pneumatic pop rivet gun are as follows:

  • Air Motor: Converts air pressure into mechanical power.
  • Collet (nozzle): to clamp the rivet mandrel, need to be replaced according to the size of the rivet.
  • Handle and Trigger: Control the air flow start and stop, adjust the rhythm of operation.
  • Regulator: Adjust the air pressure to suit different rivet tension requirements.

7 Common Reasons Why Air Pop Rivet Gun not Working

There are many reasons why air pop rivet guns not working. Here I have listed 7 common reasons and the corresponding solutions.

1. Insufficient Air Pressure

When your pneumatic pop rivet gun does the following:

  • There is no response from the rivet gun, no action after pulling the trigger.
  • Rivet can not be completely pulled tight, the rivet may be partially deformed but can not be fixed.
  • The action of the rivet gun is sluggish, the rivet pulling process becomes slow or weak.
Air source of pneumatic rivet gun

The above situation is probably caused by insufficient air pressure. If the air pressure is too low, the rivet gun will not be able to provide enough pulling force to install the rivets. At this time, you need to check if the air compressor is at 90 – 120 PSI. if the problem does not go away after checking, you can unplug the air hose, turn on the air compressor, and observe if there is enough airflow coming out. Or listen for air leaks at the air hose connections.

Through the above judgment method, it can already be determined that your air pop rivet gun not working because of Insufficient Air Pressure.Then how to solve it? Here are the solutions to this problem:

  • Make sure the air compressor pressure is as required and clean or replace the air filter and regulator.
  • Check the hoses for air leaks or bends, and replace them immediately if they are damaged.
  • Adjust the air compressor output pressure to ensure stable airflow.

2. Worn or Damaged Jaws

If your pneumatic pop rivet gun has Worn or Damaged Jaws, then your rivet gun may not be working properly. Here’s what can happen when this problem occurs:

  • Rivet gun fails to clamp rivet mandrel, mandrel remains loose or slips right off when trigger is pulled.
  • The rivet cannot be pulled, the gun moves normally but cannot complete the riveting.
  • The rivet mandrel slips when pulling the rivet and an abnormal friction sound may be heard.
Pneumatic Blind Pop Rivet Gun

How did you determine that this problem was occurring?

  • Remove the head and observe the jaws for wear, cracks or debris buildup.
  • Insert the rivet manually and pull gently. If the mandrel comes off easily, the jaws may be worn.

How to Solve It?

  • Replace the jaw assembly with a new one, making sure the dimensions match.
  • Clean the inside of the jaws to remove rivet residue.
  • Apply a liberal amount of lubricant to the jaws to minimize wear.

3. Dirt or Debris in Internal Components

Dirt or Debris in Internal Components failure to perform:

  • Rivet gun action is jerky, there is a delay after pulling the trigger or the rivet is not fully pulled.
  • Rivet gun sounds abnormal, may make a “clicking” sound or intermittent airflow sound.
  • Rivet does not eject automatically after pulling, requiring manual removal of the remaining rivet mandrel.
How to Install Pop Rivets ? - The Most Complete Guide

Steps to judgment:

  • Disassemble the rivet gun and check for metal shavings or dust buildup inside the cylinder, piston, and valve.
  • Clean the gun body with high pressure air to see if any impurities are blown out.

How to Solve It?

  • Disassemble and clean the inside of the gun body, especially the cylinder, jaws and pneumatic valve section.
  • Use air tool lubricant to ensure smooth cylinder operation.

4. Air Leaks in Pneumatic System

Failure performance:

  • Rivet gun is weak and fails to pull rivets even though air pressure is normal.
  • Continuous air leakage is heard, and the gun body sounds like airflow even when the trigger is not pulled.
  • No significant change in airflow after pulling the trigger, but no action in the gun body.
Rivet Guns vs Air Hammer

How to determine the occurrence of such malfunctions:

  • Apply soapy water to the air tube fitting and gun body interface and observe for air bubbles.
  • Check seals (O-Ring) for breakage, dryness or deterioration.
  • Apply manual pressure to the gun body and check for air leakage.

How to fix it:

  • Replace deteriorated or damaged seals (O-Ring).
  • Use a wrench to tighten all air tube connections to prevent air leaks.
  • If the gun has a significant air leak, we recommend replacing the gun with a new one or contacting the factory for repair.

5. Trigger or Valve Malfunction

When this type of failure occurs, the pneumatic rivet gun behaves as follows:

  • Trigger does not respond, but air compressor and air hose are normal.
  • Trigger return is abnormal, either too loose or too tight.
  • The rivet gun works intermittently, sometimes it can pull rivets normally, sometimes it fails.
When Should you Use Rivets,Rather than Screws?

Method of Determination:

  • Check the trigger’s rebound for smooth press and release.
  • Observe the trigger for signs of looseness or breakage.

Solution:

  • Replace the trigger spring or control valve with a new one.
  • If the valve is clogged, disassemble and clean the control valve to ensure smooth airflow.

6. Incorrect Nosepiece Size

When the following conditions occur in the pneumatic rivet gun, it means that your pneumatic rivet gun is using the wrong nosepiece.

  • The rivet will not pull tight after insertion or remains loose after pulling the rivet.
  • Rivet mandrel cannot be gripped properly, mandrel remains wobbly in nosepiece after trigger is pulled.
  • Uneven deformation of the rivet head, possibly due to mismatch in nosepiece size resulting in uneven force application.

How to determine when this type of failure is occurring:

  • Compare the rivet diameter and the nozzle opening size to make sure the match.
  • Observe the condition of the rivet after riveting, if there is any looseness or deformation, it may be a nozzle problem.

Solutions:

  • Replace the nosepiece with one that fits the rivet diameter to ensure a proper fit.
  • Use the original factory recommended rivet type to avoid problems caused by non-standard rivets.

7. Lack of Lubrication

Error Performance:

  • Rivet gun works slowly and responds sluggishly to trigger pulls.
  • The piston does not move smoothly and may stall or not return completely.
  • Rivet gun noise is abnormal, metal rubbing sound may be heard.
How to Maintain the Pneumatic Rivet Nut Gun Tool?

Ways to determine when this type of malfunction occurs:

  • Check the lubricant condition, if the inside of the gun is too dry, it may be lacking lubrication.
  • Move the piston manually, if there is a lot of resistance, lubrication may be needed.

Corresponding solution:

  • Put 2-3 drops of lubricant in the air inlet of the air tool to keep the cylinder operating smoothly.
  • Use ISO 32 grade air tool oil and avoid unsuitable lubricants.
  • Regular lubrication ensures that the rivet gun is always in optimum condition.

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How to Quickly Diagnose Why Your Air Pop Rivet Gun not Working?

  1. Check air pressure and air leakage first → Observe if the rivet gun moves.
  2. Then check the jaws, nosepiece and lubrication → Make sure the components are operating smoothly.
  3. Finally, test the trigger and internal cleaning → solve the problem of jamming or malfunctioning operation.

Proper maintenance = longer life + higher efficiency!

Guidelines for Proper Maintenance and Care of Air Pop Rivet Guns

Regular maintenance and proper care of your Air Pop Rivet Gun is essential to ensure optimal performance and long service life. The following are detailed maintenance and care procedures:

1. Routine maintenance (check before and after each use)
🔹 Check for proper air pressure (90-120 PSI)
🔹 Check air line connections for tightness
🔹 Apply appropriate amount of air lubricant (ISO 32 grade air tool oil) in drops
🔹 Check if the jaws are normal
🔹 Clean Rivet Debris

2. Periodic maintenance (weekly or monthly maintenance)
🔹 Deep cleaning of the pneumatic system
🔹 Check O-Rings (O-Ring)
🔹 Checking the trigger and pneumatic valve
🔹 Check Nosepiece Size and Condition

Guidelines for Proper Maintenance and Care of Air Pop Rivet Guns
Maintenance TaskFrequencyAction Steps
Check air pressure and hose connectionsDailyEnsure 90-120 PSI, check for air leaks in hoses
Add pneumatic lubrication oilDailyUse ISO 32 air tool oil, 2-3 drops each time
Clean jaws and rivet debrisDailyUse compressed air or a small brush to remove dirt
Inspect O-ring sealsWeeklyCheck for aging or damage in seals
Clean pneumatic systemMonthlyDisassemble the tool, remove dust and metal particles
Replace worn jaws or nosepiecesAs neededReplace when jaws are worn or nosepieces are deformed

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Buy High Quality Air Pop Rivet Guns from Manufacturer

Maintenance and replacement of wearing parts for pneumatic rivet guns is unavoidable. If you don’t troubleshoot and replace them in time, your pneumatic rivet gun may not work. This will have a great impact on your riveting work.

A high quality pneumatic rivet gun is essential for safe riveting. If you would like to purchase a high quality pneumatic rivet gun for your project or business, please contact us!

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Custom Rivet Solutions for Your Project

How to Riveting Composites Material?

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Why Remove Self Piercing Rivets

For composites, the question of how to install them without damaging the material is a matter of concern, and Riveting offers an excellent solution.Riveting composites material allows for stable connections without damaging the surface of the material.

By reading this article, you will learn about the method of riveting composites, how to select rivets and practical applications.

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What are the methods of riveting composites?

Self Clinching Fastener

How to install self clinching nuts?

Self clinching fastener is embedded in the composite material by pressure or impact. It is suitable for hybrid joining of metals and composites. However, incorrect use may result in delamination of the composite or fiber breakage.

Riveting

How to Install Q Rivets

riveting is the mechanical deformation of rivets by tension to form a stable connection. Rivets can join many different composite and metallic materials. However, before using rivets, holes need to be drilled in advance. A large number of rivets are used in aircraft skins.

However, excessive riveting force can cause damage around the hole, so it is necessary to closely control the hole diameter (deviation ≤ 0.1mm) and riveting force.

Self Piercing riveting

How to Install Rivmate Blind Rivet(Self piercing rivet)

The use of self piercing riveting eliminates the need for pre-drilled holes, directly penetrating the material and riveting it with punching force.

Self piercing rivets are mainly used for short fiber composites or thermoplastic basic composites. Its advantages include reduced hole damage and high joining efficiency.

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How to Choose Rivets for Composites?

I. Rivet material selection

Common riveting materials for riveting composites are listed below:

  • Titanium alloy: Aircraft skins, hatches and other parts that require high lightweight and fatigue resistance.
  • Aluminum: low cost and light weight. Corrosion resistance and can be riveted to carbon brazing.
  • Nickel: suitable for riveting composite materials in high temperature environment.

Ⅱ. rivet structure type

Types of Pop Rivets

Blind Rivets: Its structure is characterized by the expansion of the tail to form a latch, suitable for unilateral operation. When riveting composite materials, you can choose titanium alloy or 5056 aluminum alloy, lightweight and tensile strength ≥ 500MPa. It is used more in the UAV fuselage, small-size composite parts connection.

Break Stem Rivets: The rivet mandrel breaks during riveting to form a high tensile strength connection. This type of rivet is very suitable for riveting high yield strength composite materials (such as IM7 carbon fiber / epoxy resin).

Shear-Type Rivets: Flat or countersunk head design, preferentially subjected to shear loads, used to join composites to metal laminations.

Ⅲ. rivet optimization design key technology

Surface Finishes

  • Anti-corrosion coatings: Titanium rivets can be aluminized or coated with PTFE to block galvanic coupling corrosion with carbon fibers.
  • Lubrication and drag reduction: Manganese Phosphate coating reduces the frictional drag of the riveted joint (coefficient of friction reduced by 30%).

Coupling shape optimization

  • Streamlined rivet head: reduces aerodynamic drag (for exposed aircraft connections).
  • Distributed grooves: promote uniform rivet expansion (especially for thick plywood).

Lightweighting program

  • Honeycomb core rivets: internal honeycomb structure reduces weight by 15%~20%, strength loss ≤5%.
  • Variable cross-section design: localized thickening of connecting segments to improve tensile/shear performance.

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Applications of Riveting Composites

There are numerous examples of riveted composites being used in aerospace and automotive manufacturing, where the core of the technology is to achieve lightweight, high-strength connections through optimized processes.

Aerospace

Why do Airplanes Use Rivets Instead of Welds?

Riveting can provide significant weight savings and stable connections for aerospace.

  • Aircraft fuselage and wings (Airbus A350/A380): Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composite (CFRP) + Titanium skeleton.
  • Spacecraft Fuel Tank (SpaceX Starship): Carbon Fiber/Epoxy Composite + Inconel Alloy Liner.
  • UAV structure (MQ-9 Reaper): carbon fiber/epoxy skin with aluminum honeycomb core riveted on one side.

Automotive Manufacturing

  • All-aluminum body (Audi A8/A6 e-tron): self-pierce riveted (SPR) + glued. Body torsional stiffness increased by 25%, 15% weight reduction in white body.
  • New energy vehicle battery box (Tesla Model Y): automated self-pierce riveting robot. Avoid welding heat affected zone (HAZ), vibration resistance improved by 30%.
  • Steel-aluminum hybrid body (Ford F-150 Lightning): high-strength steel rivets. Reduced processes, steel-aluminum connection strength up to 1.5 times that of conventional welding.
Self Piercing Rivets for Automotive Body Connections

Custom Riveting Solutions for Composites Project

Composites can provide high strength, light weight, wear and temperature resistance, but how to safely rivet composites has become a challenge. Composites are very susceptible to fiber tearing and delamination around the hole when drilling, and riveting technology, which does not require pre-drilling, is the perfect solution to this problem.

If looking for a reliable rivet supplier for your composite project, contact us!Rivmate is the leading rivet manufacturer and supplier for professional riveting solutions.

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Custom Rivet Solutions for Your Project

Is Riveting Permanent or Temporary?

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What is RivetingThe Comprehensive Guide to Riveting

Riveting is a mechanical connection. It provides a stable connection, so is riveting permanent or temporary?

By reading this guide, you will know clearly understand this question. Including the difference between permanent and temporary connections, applications of riveting as a permanent connection.

Table of Contents

What is Riveting?

Riveting form a locking structure by plastic deformation of the rivet, which cannot be separated in a non-destructive way after joining. Riveting is categorized into cold riveting and hot riveting. After the development of mechanization, pneumatic riveting gradually replace manual operation. Rivets are usually considered permanent connections. If you want to remove rivets, the only way to do so is by cutting or drilling.

Riveting Mast with Monel Rivets

Cold riveting is limited by the hardness and diameter of the material (usually ≤8mm); while hot riveting is more expensive due to the need for heating equipment. Rivets are usually considered permanent connections. If you want to remove a rivet, the only way to do so is by cutting or drilling.

Permanent Connection vs Temporary Connection

Permanect connection: basic concept

A permanent joint is a type of irreversible connection in mechanical engineering, where destructive operations are required to separate the parts after joining. It is used in industrial design for connection strength, sealing or long-term stability of the higher requirements of the scene, such as aerospace, automotive industry, building structures. Typical forms include Riveting, Welding, Adhesive Bonding and Press Fit.

Are Rivets Permanent or Semi Permanent?

temporary connection: basic concept

A temporary connection is a connection in mechanical engineering that allows for non-destructive disassembly and reusability, usually through mechanical forces (e.g., friction or threaded occlusion) to realize the fixation of components. It is widely used in scenarios that require frequent adjustments, maintenance or modular design, such as equipment assembly, maintenance and debugging, and test system construction. Typical forms include Bolts, Screws, Clamps, Pins and Snap-fits.

Rivets vs Bolts,The Difference of Riveting and bolting

Permanent Connection vs Temporary Connection

Comparison AspectPermanent Connections (Riveting, Welding, Adhesive Bonding)Temporary Connections (Bolts, Screws, Clamps)
DisassemblyRequires destructive methods (e.g., cutting rivets, grinding welds)Non-destructive, reusable
LifespanIrreversible, long-term fixReversible, suitable for periodic adjustments
Mechanical Performance◾ Superior vibration/fatigue resistance◾ Rigid (no loosening)
◾ Better sealing
◾ Preload-dependent (loosening risk)
◾ Stress concentrations
◾ Sealing requires gaskets
Process Complexity◾ Requires specialized tools (welders, riveters)
◾ Higher skill level
◾ Simple tools (wrenches, screwdrivers)
◾ Standardized processes
Cost Efficiency◾ Lower initial cost (no dedicated fasteners)
◾ Higher maintenance cost
◾ Higher component cost (bolts/nuts)
◾ Lower maintenance cost
Typical Applications◾ Long-term stability (bridges, aircraft fuselages, pressure vessels)
◾ High-vibration environments
◾ Frequent disassembly (robotic fixtures, test beds)
◾ Modular assembly (furniture, electronics)
Examples◾ Aircraft fuselage riveting
◾ Structural steel welding
◾ Automotive exhaust press fits
◾ Engine-to-frame bolting
◾ 3D-printed part assembly with screws
◾ CNC machine clamps
Sustainability◾ Hard to recycle due to destructive disassembly◾ Reusable components reduce waste

 

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Is Riveting Permanent or Temporary?

In practice, riveted joints are permanent connections. The main reasons for this are as follows:

  • Irreversibility: rivets in the installation through plastic deformation (such as nail head forging) to form a locking structure, once completed that can not be separated without damage.
  • Destructive disassembly: Separation of riveted parts requires the destruction of the rivet itself or the part being connected (e.g. drilling, cutting).
  • Designed for: Rivets are designed to provide permanent stability and excellent resistance to vibration.
  • Process Characteristics: Both cold and hot rivets form a permanent joint by deformation, regardless of the type of rivet (solid rivet, blind rivet).

Application of riveting as a permanent connection

Riveting, as a classic permanent connection, occupies an irreplaceable position in several key areas due to its fatigue resistance, material compatibility and lack of thermal influence.

I. Aerospace

Why do Airplanes Use Rivets Instead of Welds?

Large amounts of aluminum and titanium alloys are used in aircraft. These metals are sensitive to welding heat (which tends to cause embrittlement) and riveting produces no heat affected zone (HAZ). And the rivet array disperses vibration stresses for longer life. In addition to this, rivets can join dissimilar metal materials.

  • Aircraft skin: aluminum alloy/composite fuselage panels riveted to the skeleton (e.g. Boeing 737 fuselage using hundreds of thousands of rivets).
  • Engine nacelles: riveting high-temperature alloy components (e.g., titanium blade mounts).
  • Spacecraft structures: lightweight aluminum honeycomb panels connected to frames.

II. Automobile manufacturing

Self Piercing Rivets for Automobile Compartment Assembly

Compared with welding, riveting does not generate electric arcs or sparks, making it suitable for battery packs and other components with high safety requirements. And SPR in riveting is ideal for automated scenarios. It does not require pre-drilling, and the word operation takes less than 0.5s, which is suitable for assembly line operation.

  • Body-in-white frame: aluminum alloy frame mixed with steel plate riveted (e.g. Tesla Model Y using self-pierce riveting SPR).
  • Battery pack shell: sealed riveted aluminum alloy shell of lithium battery pack (taking into account strength and explosion-proof).
  • Roof and door: riveting of lightweight composite cover parts.

III. Construction

Buildings require high wind vibration resistance at connection points. And riveted nodes stress dispersion ability is better than bolts, reducing fatigue damage under long-term wind load. Sealed rivets prevent rainwater from penetrating into steel structure gaps.

  • Steel bridge: steel truss node riveted (such as the early riveted structure of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco).
  • High-rise building facades: riveting of glass curtain walls to aluminum frames.
  • Temporary structures: scaffolding connection nodes.
Why Use Blind Rivets in Metal Furring

IV. Rail transportation

In rail transportation, the connected fasteners need to be under high-frequency vibration for a long period of time, and the riveted connection has better resistance to loosening than bolts. And riveted joints do not damage the material fireproof coating (welding high temperature may erode the protective layer).

  • High-speed rail vehicle body: hybrid riveting of aluminum alloy frame and skin (combined with laser welding).
  • Rail vehicle interior: riveted fixing of fireproof sound insulation boards.
  • Subway doors: mechanical riveting of lightweight composite doors.

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Enhance Your Business with Rivmate

By reading this blog, I believe you have a clear understanding of “is riveting permanent or temporanry”. The removal of rivets requires the destruction of the original structure of the rivet, so riveting is a permanent connection. Riveting can provide a lightweight, stable connection to your project.

If you want to make your business more successful, contact us for professional riveting solutions.

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The Ultimate Guide to Rivet Body

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Steel Blind Rivets Body and Steel Blind Rivets Mandrel Materials

If a blind rivet does not have a rivet body, there is no way for it to form a stable connection. Therefore, the rivet body is the key to providing a permanent connection in a blind rivet.

By reading this ultimate guide, you will learn the basic definition of a rivet body, what it does, what it is made of, and how it is made. Let’s explore the mysteries of rivet body!

Table of Contents

What is Rivet Body?

Rivet body is the main structural part of the rivet, usually refers to the cylindrical shank part (shank), excluding the head (head) or tail deformation formed after riveting. It assumes the core function in the rivet structure.

Blind Rivet Body and Blind Rivet Mandrel

The working principle of the blind rivet is to form a fastening connection through the mechanical deformation of the rivet body. Therefore, the reliability and durability of the rivet body is very important, which is directly related to the overall safety of the riveted joint.

The Role of Rivet Body

1. Fixing and supporting the workpiece

  • Expansion to fill the hole: Blind rivet body is usually hollow structure, there is a mandrel inside. During installation, a special tool pulls on the mandrel, causing the end of the rivet body to expand and deform, tightly filling the holes in the workpiece to form a fixed end similar to an “umbrella handle”. This expansion creates radial pressure, clamping the workpiece on both sides and preventing loosening.
What is the Rivets Expand?

Resistance to mechanical loads:

  • Shear force: the expansion of the rivet body through friction and mechanical bite, to prevent the workpiece along the parallel plane of the sliding (such as chassis panels subject to vibration).
  • Tensile force: The “tab” formed at the expanding end of the rivet body snaps onto the back of the workpiece, preventing the connection from being pulled apart (e.g. tensile load on billboard frames).

2. Realization of unilateral installation

The design of blind rivet body solves the limitation that traditional rivets need to be operated from both sides. When installing, just pull the mandrel from one side of the workpiece, the tail automatically expands to form a fixed end, without the need to enter the back of the space, suitable for closed or narrow environment (such as pipeline walls, automobile compartments).

3. Applicability and material characteristics

Blind rivet body expands to accommodate different thickness combinations (by adjusting the nail body length). Therefore it is often used in sheet metal, plastic or composite materials.

In addition, the rivet body material is mostly aluminum, stainless steel or nylon, which is lightweight and corrosion resistant. Ideal for aerospace, electronic equipment housings and other scenarios.

Install Multi Grip Blind Rivets

If the rivet body is of closed design, then it can provide good water and air resistance.

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Rivet Body Material : Application Scenarios with Different Materials

The material of the Rivet Body directly affects its mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, weight and cost. In order to adapt to different application scenarios, there are a variety of materials for the rivet body.

  • Aluminum Alloy (5056, 2217)
  • Carbon steel (low or medium carbon steel)
  • Stainless steel (304, 316)
  • Monel
  • Copper
  • Nylon
FactorHigh-priority MaterialsExplanation
Strength DemandSteel, Titanium AlloyPreferred for high shear or tensile loads (e.g., bridges, heavy machinery).
Corrosion ResistanceStainless Steel, Titanium AlloyAvoid electrochemical corrosion in chemical/offshore environments.
LightweightAluminum Alloy, Titanium AlloyReduce structural weight in aerospace/automotive applications.
Cost ControlCarbon Steel, Aluminum AlloyEconomical choice for mass production or budget-limited projects.
Electrical Conductivity/Insulation RequirementsCopper (conductive), Nylon (insulative)Electrical connections or scenarios requiring current isolation.
Temperature AdaptabilityStainless Steel (high temp), Titanium AlloyStainless steel for high-temp environments (<800°C); nickel alloys (e.g., Inconel) for extreme temps.

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Manufacturing Process of Rivet Body

The manufacturing process of the rivet body directly affects its mechanical properties, durability and application scenarios. The following are typical production methods.

Cold Heading

Cold heading is formed by applying high pressure to metal wires in the cold state and extruding them using a die (e.g. cylindrical nail shanks and pre-heads). This step usually involves continuous molding using multiple stations to progressively shape the rivet profile.

Pop Rivet Manufacturer - Pop Rivet Cold Heading Machines

The core impact of Cold heading on the rivet body is as follows:

  • Increased shear strength (up to 15-20%)
  • Suitable for high volume production (hundreds of pieces per minute)
  • Material utilization of more than 95 percent

Machining

Machining is the cutting of bars or tubes on CNC lathes, finishing complex features such as outside diameters and head grooves. The tolerance accuracy of this technique can be as high as ±0.01 mm. but it leads to 30-50% material waste and high cost.

Heat Treatment

Heat treatment is divided into a total of four parts, according to the actual need to choose to use different combinations of parts. In the rivet body, quenching + tempering is often used to increase the hardness and strength of the steel rivet body (tensile strength up to 1000MPa or more). Therefore heat treatment is often used on rivets that require high strength.

Alloy 2117 Rivets Are Heat Treated

The core effects of heat treatment on the rivet body are as follows:

  • Strength-toughness balance: Improper quenching is prone to brittle fracture and requires strict control of the cooling rate (e.g. oil quenching or graded quenching).
  • Residual stress: Stress relief annealing is required after heat treatment to avoid cracking during installation.

Surface Treatment

On the rivet body, surface treatment is the most commonly used measure to increase the characteristics of the rivet body. The common types of processes are listed below:

  • Electroplating (zinc, cadmium): anti-corrosion, with a coating thickness of 5-15 μm.
  • Anodizing (Aluminum): Forms an oxide film that is resistant to abrasion and can be colored.
  • Dacromet coating: environmental protection against rust, suitable for high temperature environment.
Surface Treatment of rivet

The core impact of the surface finish on the rivet body is as follows:

  • Coefficient of Friction: Excessive plating may result in increased resistance to expansion during installation, affecting clamping force.
  • Corrosion Resistance Life: Galvanized plating can last up to 500 hours or more in salt spray environments, anodized aluminum is more resistant to chemical corrosion.

Parameter Composition of the Rivet Body

Rivet Body’s dimensional specifications are defined by a number of key parameters, often following international standards (e.g. ISO, ANSI) or industry specifications.

  • Rivet diameter: the nominal diameter of the cylindrical part of the rivet body (D), directly affecting the shear and tensile strength.
  • Rivet length: the total thickness of the connected parts covered by the nail bar before deformation.
  • Rivet head size: rivet head is usually divided into three types: dome head, countersunk head and large flange head. round head diameter is usually 2D-2.5D; countersunk head diameter needs to be matched with workpiece countersunk hole.
  • Grip Range: The total thickness of the workpiece to which the blind rivet can be effectively connected (e.g. 0.5mm-8mm).
How to Determine Rivet Diameter Rivet Diameter Guide
Nominal Diameter (D)Grip Range (T)Shank Length (L)Head Type
3mm0.5-5mm6mm, 8mm, 10mmRound Head / Countersunk
4mm1-8mm8mm, 12mm, 16mmRound Head / Large Flange Head
5mm3-12mm15mm, 20mm, 25mmCountersunk / Flat Head

Requirements for Rivet Body in Different Industries

The design requirements for Rivet Bodies vary significantly from industry to industry. This is mainly due to the working environment, type of load, regulatory standards and special working conditions.

  • Aerospace: High requirements for strength and lightweighting. Commonly used 7075 aluminum alloy and titanium alloy rivet body.
  • Automobile manufacturing: automobiles have high requirements for shock resistance. Therefore, the rivets with higher strength will be chosen. For example, galvanized steel rivets.
  • Construction: the rivets used in construction need to have a high bearing capacity and durability. Commonly used carbon steel and stainless steel rivet body.

Custom Rivet Body for Your Project

The rivet body plays an important role in the riveting process. The thickness of the material that can be riveted is achieved by adjusting the rivet body. If you know how to choose the most suitable rivet body for your project, please contact us. Rivmate is one of the top rivet manufacturers and suppliers in China, which can provide professional riveting solutions for you.

Please get the rivet samples for testing before placing a formal order!

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What Causes Loose Rivets and How to Avoid It?

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What Causes Loose Rivets and How to Avoid It

Rivets are permanent connections. However, rivets can come loose if they are not used properly. What are the causes of loose rivets?

By reading this guide, you will understand the consequences of loose rivets and how to avoid them from happening.

Table of Contents

Consequences of loose rivets

Loose rivets may seem like a small problem, but they can lead to structural failure, safety hazards and high maintenance costs. The consequences of loose rivets are mainly in terms of structural stability, safety risks and maintenance costs.

Consequences of loose rivets
  • Stress concentration and fatigue injury.
  • Risk of connection failure.
  • Impaired pneumatic performance.
  • Loose rivets may trigger a chain reaction and risk of sudden failure.
  • Increased maintenance costs.

What Causes Loose Rivets?

I. Material and design factors

Rivet material or structural defects

  • Nail core tension is insufficient or improper heat treatment, resulting in insufficient clamping force after riveting.
  • Rivet body hardness is too high, the expansion is not sufficient to form an effective locking.
  • The size or angle of the nail head is not reasonably designed, preventing the rivet tube from fully expanding.
Reasons for Rivet Shear Failure

Problems with connected materials

  • Material surface is uneven, oil or rust, reducing friction.
  • Rivet and material coefficient of thermal expansion difference, temperature changes lead to fluctuations in clamping force

II. Installation process issues

Improper riveting operation

  • Drill hole diameter is too large (beyond the rivet outer diameter of 0.1-0.2mm range), resulting in insufficient contact area.
  • Insufficient or excessive riveting pressure: insufficient pressure so that the rivet is not fully deformed, excessive pressure may damage the material.
  • Riveting angle deviation, resulting in lateral force generation.

Poor tool matching

  • Rivet gun power is not enough or claw wear, need to pull the rivet many times, resulting in uneven nail core breakage.
  • Not selected to match the rivet specifications of the gun head, such as external locking wire drawing rivets require special tools

III. External environmental factors

Vibration and Shock

  • Continuous vibration (e.g. engine, transportation) causes small displacements, gradually weakening the clamping force.
  • Sudden impacts (e.g. collisions) instantly exceeding the rivet’s tolerance limits.
What Causes Loose Rivets

temperature cycling

Frequent temperature changes cause material fatigue, which can lead to the risk of rivet failure. In outdoor metal structures, rivets may loosen due to temperature differences between day and night.

IV. Maintenance and quality control

Inadequate maintenance of tools

  • Rivet gun claws, springs or seals are worn out and not replaced in time, affecting the stability of the nail grip.
  • Compressed air contains moisture or impurities, resulting in unstable air pressure
Tips of Installing Countersunk Rivets

Lack of quality testing

Failure to regularly test rivet pull-off force or torque to detect potential defects.

V. Other special scenario factors

  • Corrosion or abrasion: long-term exposure to moisture or corrosive environments, the strength of the rivet is reduced.
  • Overloading: exceeding the rivet’s designed load-bearing capacity, accelerating loosening or fracture.

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What Remedies can be Taken After Rivets has come Loose?

Direct replacement of loose rivets

If the rivets are loose, lose head, shear off or miss rivets, need to directly replace or replenish the rivets.

Care should be taken when replacing:

  • Use gas cutting tool to cut off the old rivet head to avoid the vibration of wind shovel affecting the neighboring rivets.
  • Clean the nail hole and check the inclination of the hole wall, if more than 5 ° or affect the bolt fit, need to ream or use wedge washers.
  • After replacement, make sure that the new rivets have the same strength as the original structure, if necessary, expand the nail holes and use larger diameter rivets.

Replacement of high-strength bolts

C6L Lockbolt Rivet

In the repair of steel structure, rivets can be replaced by high-strength bolts, and the diameter of bolts can be converted according to equal strength. If there are no serious defects in the nail holes (such as wrong holes, elliptical holes), the bolts can be used directly; otherwise, they need to be reamed or add washers.

Glue or spacer reinforcement

  • Glue reinforcement method: use high-temperature, high-viscosity glue coated around the rivets, clamped to dry (for non-stressed parts).
  • Rubber pad reinforcement method: cut and rivet size matching rubber sheet, pad in the loose place to increase friction.

Regular inspection and maintenance

For structures subjected to power loads (such as plants and vehicles), periodically tap to check whether the rivets are skipping, if more than 10% need to be replaced. At the same time to avoid overloading or violent vibration, to reduce the rivets uneven force

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Custom Riveting Solutions for Your Project

Loose rivets not only threaten equipment safety, but also lead to high maintenance costs. Whether it is the high-frequency vibration scenario of aviation grade, the extreme temperature difference test of industrial equipment, or the micron-level error requirements of precision electronic components, we provide full-process customized riveting solutions:

  • Scientific material selection: matching stainless steel, titanium alloy, Monel and other materials to ensure the compatibility of the coefficient of thermal expansion of the rivet and the connected parts;
  • Technological innovation: combined with hydraulic riveting, frozen preload and other advanced technologies, precise control of clamping force and deformation, resistance to fatigue and impact;
  • Anti-loosening guarantee: integrated locknut, self-lubricating coating and fiber-optic stress monitoring technology to provide aerospace-grade long-term stability;
  • Full-cycle service: from failure analysis, tool matching to spectral inspection, we escort your project with NASM 1312 process standards.

Inquire today for exclusive solutions – extend the life of your structure by 30% and reduce O&M costs by 50% with artisan riveting technology! Contact us now!

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