Rivets

Standard and Specialty Rivets for Every Application

You can use rivets for virtually any permanent join, no matter the material, appearance, or required strength.

Blind Rivets

Blind rivets fasten materials when only one side is accessible. Applications include automotive body panels and trim, metal roofing and HVAC ductwork, and consumer washers and dryers.

Solid Rivets

Solid rivets are high-strength and durable, suitable for heavy-duty uses such as aircraft fuselages and wings, metal hull plates in ships, bridges, and other structural steel frameworks.

Press-Fit Rivets

Press-fit rivets are pushed into pre-drilled holes and don’t require additional tools, saving time and making installation easier. Common projects include electronic circuit boards, automotive dashboards and interior panels, and lightweight furniture assembly.

Push-In Rivets

Push-in rivets snap into place easily and are often seen in temporary or removable installations like office equipment, electronic plastic enclosures, and display panels and signage.

Split Rivets

Split rivets have two prongs that spread apart upon installation and are ideal for soft or brittle materials found in upholstery and furniture assemblies, fabric- or leather-to-wood connections, and decorative crafts.

Mate Rivets

Mate rivets, or joining rivets, are aesthetic fasteners due to their smooth design and polished finish, making them ideal for lightweight, decorative fastening such as luggage and handbags, display panels and consumer electronics, and signage and lightweight enclosures.

Semi-Tubular Rivets

Semi-tubular rivets are easy to install due to a hollow shaft. They are preferred for the high-volume production of furniture hinges and brackets, automotive brake linings, and small appliances and toys.

Selecting the Appropriate Type of Rivet

When selecting the right type of rivet for your project, keep in mind the following factors:

• Strength and Load Requirements: Determine the mechanical stress the rivet will face.
• Application Environment: Consider factors like moisture, temperature, and exposure to chemicals.
• Grip Range and Material Thickness: Use a rivet with a grip range that matches the combined thickness of the materials being fastened to secure the joint properly.
• Installation Accessibility: Some rivet types are only suitable when you can access both sides of the joint. Otherwise, blind rivets are an ideal choice for one-sided installation.

Consider the rivet’s compatibility with the materials being joined. For instance, aluminum rivets are ideal for strong, lightweight connections, and stainless steel is more appropriate for corrosion-resistant materials in harsh environments.

Tools for Installing Rivets

The tools used to install rivets vary based on the type of rivet and the scope of the application:

• Blind rivets commonly require a rivet gun, available in budget-friendly manual, reduced-effort pneumatic, or portable cordless options.
• Solid rivets generally need heavier-duty tools like rivet hammers and bucking bars to create secure joints without damaging the material.
• Semi-tubular rivets are usually installed with automated riveting machines designed for high-volume production.
• Push-in and press-fit rivets rarely require specialized tools; manual presses and push tools are usually sufficient.

There are also specialized accessories, such as mandrel collectors, that integrate with pneumatic and cordless rivet guns to keep the workspace clean and safe.