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Rivets offer contractors numerous benefits: easy and efficient installation, lasting durability, and lower costs. However, when it comes to selecting the best rivets for your project, there’s no room for error. Choose the wrong size, and it will be impossible to install or the strength of the connection will be compromised. Choose the wrong material, and the rivets’ integrity may diminish with time. Below are points to consider when determining ones to buy

There are two main classifications of rivets, each with their own benefits. 

Blind rivets. As the name implies, the distinguishing characteristic of this type of rivet is the fact that contractors don’t need to access both sides of the fastened materials. To understand how it works, it’s important to know that there are two main parts to the fastener: the body (the widest component) and the mandrel (the longest component). The installer uses a riveting tool to push the rivet through a pre-drilled hole before drawing the mandrel out of the rivet so it acts like a cork on a bottle on the “blind side.” The exposed part of the mandrel then pops off to leave a clean look and strong connection.

Solid rivets. The older of the two types, solid rivets is more simplistic in their design. Access to both sides of the attached materials is required to hammer or “deteriorate” the ends for a tight clamp.

As with all fasteners, rivets come in a full range of sizes. Ultimately, the more surface area behind the substrate, the stronger the connection. Keep the following rivet measurement guidelines in mind:

Diameter. Considering that most rivets need pre-drilled holes, you must measure accurately or else installation will be impossible. Note that diameter measurements refer to the size of the shank rather than the mandrel. The most common sizing for the rivet diameter is 1/8th of an inch. 

Grip Range. Easily confused for the length of rivet, the grip range indicates the combined thickness of the fastened materials that the rivet is capable of connecting. Most rivets will offer diverse grip ranges; it’s best if your particular application thickness falls in the middle of this range rather than towards the minimum or maximum, if possible. 

Still unsure about the proper size rivet for your needs? Rs Electro can answer your questions and provide greater insights so you can move ahead with confidence.  

Contractors will have a surprising number of head shapes from which to choose, though the needs of the project may limit their options. For example, if they choose to use blind rivets, they’ll find that the most common head design available is the “dome.” Additionally, if flush installation is a priority, contractors can only choose from “countersunk-head rivets” which are flush with the top surface.

Ideally, the material and alloy of the rivet are the same as the items you’re attaching. However, if this is not an option, feel free to contact Rs Electro for guidance on which material to use. Avoid rivet materials that are highly vulnerable to corrosion and rust if you anticipate exposure to moisture.

Color will obviously not impact the performance of the rivet, but it does influence the overall attractiveness of the project. To see what sort of options are available, check out Rs Electro rivet color chart.