Blind Rivets

Blind rivets are used to fasten parts but only if a flat parallel surface exists for the rivet head and cinch, as well as there being the right amount of space needed for the rivet driver.  As the blind rivet is set, a mechanical feature that is fully self-contained is designed to expand the shank, which then secures any parts being connected.

Most often, blind rivets are installed in joints, which would only be accessible from one side.  In addition, blind rivets can be used for simplifying assembly, improving appearance, and cutting back on costs for joint assembly.  Typically, blind rivets would be used in certain situations such as when fastener removal is not required for maintenance, as a temporary fastener, for metal or other surfaces with high vibrations, in times when uniform clamping is needed, and as repair fasteners by untrained employees.

When buying blind rivets, you will find they come in a variety of options to include drive pin, mandrel, and threaded.  In addition, these rivets are designed with different style cores.  For instance, the filled style rivet has pin or mandrel to the point where it would be almost flush with the rivet head’s top. With this option, you would end up with high sheer strength.

Then, for a semi-filled type of blind rivet, it would contain just a short amount of mandrel. However, the hollow blind river has an empty core. For this, the rivet is ideal for situations when you need lightweight fasteners. In addition, the hollow blind rivet works exceptionally well in applications such as electronics.

When measuring the diameter of a blind rivet, this would be based on the shank. Then for grip range, this equates to the thickness of the material that the blind rivet can joint. For sealing, this would be based on the style of the blind rivet end, which is extremely important and should always be checked in operating conditions. Typically, the various manufacturers will provide all the needed information so you know exactly the type of blind rivet and its intended purposes.

To use the right length of the blind rivet, you would need to know the specific joint design information for allowable tolerances. This would include type, loading magnitude, thickness, joint configuration, and even the clearance of the hole. To ensure you get the blind rivet in place where it needs to be every time, a rivet gun is used.