Industry knowledge
How does a blind rivet work?
A blind rivet, also known as a pop rivet, is a fastener used to join two or more materials together. It consists of two main components: a cylindrical body and a mandrel (or stem). Here's how a blind rivet works:
Preparation: To begin, a hole is drilled or punched through the materials to be joined. The hole diameter should match the size of the blind rivet.
Insertion: The
blind rivet is inserted into the hole from one side of the materials. The cylindrical body of the rivet is slightly larger in diameter than the hole, allowing it to fit snugly.
Application of force: A rivet tool is used to apply force to the mandrel end protruding from the blind rivet. This force causes the mandrel to deform.
Deformation: As the mandrel is deformed, it creates a bulge or "head" on the blind side of the materials. This head applies pressure to the materials, holding them together.
Separation: Once the mandrel is fully deformed, excess mandrel length is snapped off or removed. The remaining blind rivet body remains in place, securing the materials.
The key aspect of a blind rivet is that it can be installed from one side of the materials, making it suitable for applications where access to both sides is limited or impossible. The mandrel's deformation generates a mechanical fastening force that creates a reliable joint between the materials.
It's important to note that blind rivets are non-removable, as the mandrel is typically designed to break or be removed during the installation process.
What are the different types of blind rivets available?
There are several types of blind rivets available, each designed for specific applications and requirements. The most common types of blind rivets include:
Standard Blind Rivets: Also known as dome head or pop rivets, these are the basic type of blind rivets. They consist of a smooth cylindrical body and a mandrel. Standard blind rivets are versatile and widely used in various applications.
Large Flange Blind Rivets: These rivets have a larger flange on the blind side, providing increased load-bearing capacity and better distribution of the fastening force. They are suitable for applications requiring a larger surface area.
Countersunk Blind Rivets: Countersunk
blind rivets feature a flat or countersunk head design on the blind side, allowing for a flush finish when the materials being joined require a smooth surface.
Peel Blind Rivets: Peel rivets have a unique design with a split tail that creates a wide, flared "bulb" when the mandrel is pulled. This type of rivet is used when joining soft or brittle materials, as it exerts lower clamping force and minimizes the risk of damage.
Structural Blind Rivets: Also known as high-strength blind rivets, these rivets are specifically designed for applications requiring increased strength and load-bearing capacity. They are made from stronger materials and provide a more durable joint.
Grooved Blind Rivets: Grooved rivets have longitudinal grooves along their body, which helps distribute the clamping force evenly and reduces the risk of material damage. They are suitable for applications where a higher level of resistance to pull-out forces is needed.
Bulb-tite Blind Rivets: Bulb-tite rivets are designed with a larger, sealed bulb on the blind side. This type of rivet creates a water and airtight seal, making it suitable for applications requiring a moisture barrier.
Huck Blind Rivets: Huck rivets, also known as lock bolts or structural blind rivets, provide a more robust and vibration-resistant joint. They consist of a collar and a pin, which are mechanically locked together during installation.
These are just a few examples of the types of blind rivets available in the market. The choice of rivet type depends on factors such as the application requirements, material properties, load-bearing capacity, and desired aesthetic finish.