How to Assemble solid rivets?

Using a riveting tool to install solid rivets offers a more aesthetically pleasing result than manually hammering them, and it requires less effort. This makes it suitable for high-volume applications. Solid rivets are mechanical fasteners consisting of a smooth, cylindrical shank and a rounded head. They are commonly used in applications requiring strength and reliability, such as structural engineering and aerospace. Unlike threaded fasteners, solid rivets generally do not loosen over time.

While you can install threaded fasteners with a screwdriver, installing solid rivets may require a riveting tool. Solid rivets do not have a drive type, so they do not support Phillips or any other type of screwdriver. What exactly is a rivet tool? How does it work?

How a riveting tool works?

Whether a riveting tool is mechanical, pneumatic, or hydraulic, its operation is likely similar. They are called "riveting tools" because they compress the rivet. This compression causes the solid rivet to deform, securing it to the part.

To install a solid rivet, you typically drill or cut a hole in the component. You can then insert the shank of the solid rivet into the hole.

Rivet Setting Tool Basics

A rivet setting tool is a device used to compress and deform solid rivets. It provides a quick and easy way to install solid rivets. Instead of manually deforming the end of the solid rivet with a hammer, you can use a rivet setting tool.

Types of rivet setting tools include:

Mechanical: Mechanical rivet setting tools are the least expensive type and rely on manual operation. You need to pull the trigger to compress the rivet.

Pneumatic: Pneumatic rivet setting tools utilize compressed air. They serve the same purpose as mechanical rivet setting tools, but require less physical effort to use.

Hydraulic: There are also hydraulic rivet setting tools. Like other hydraulic tools and devices, they use pressurized fluid.

While most rivet setting tools operate similarly, some may differ. Nevertheless, you place the rivet setting tool over the solid rivet. When the trigger is pulled, the tool compresses the head and tail (the rear end of the shank) of the rivet. The tail then flattens, securing the solid rivet in place.

If you're unsure how to rivet a solid rivet, please contact us at Nuote Metals. We can also provide rivet solutions.