POP Rivets, also known as blind rivets, are a quick and easy fastening solution for a variety of applications. These versatile fasteners are designed to provide a secure hold without the need for access to the backside of the material being fastened. They are easy to install with basic tools and can be used to fasten a wide range of materials, including metal, plastic, and composites. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of using POP Rivets, the different types available, and how to properly install them. Whether you’re a professional contractor, DIY enthusiast, or just need to make a quick repair, POP Rivets are an excellent choice for your fastening needs.
POP Rivets: Understanding the Workings
POP Rivets, also known as blind rivets, are a type of fastener that are used to securely join two pieces of material together without the need for access to the back side of the material. They are commonly used in a variety of applications, including automotive, construction, aerospace, and manufacturing.
POP Rivets consist of two main parts: the mandrel and the rivet body. The mandrel is the long, thin rod that runs through the center of the rivet. The rivet body is the portion of the rivet that is visible on the surface of the material. It is typically made of aluminum, steel or stainless steel.
To install a POP Rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The mandrel is then pulled through the rivet body, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold.
The strength of the connection is determined by the diameter and the material of the mandrel, as well as the material and thickness of the two pieces of material being joined. The mandrel is designed to expand the rivet body to a specific diameter that will fill the hole in the material and create a tight grip.
POP Rivets are commonly used in situations where access to the back side of the material is limited. They are also used in situations where a traditional nut and bolt fastening would be too time-consuming or difficult to install. POP Rivets are a quick and easy solution for fastening two pieces of material together.
It’s also worth noting that there are different types of POP Rivets such as single-grip, multi-grip, and structural rivets, each having its specific characteristics and purposes. The proper installation technique is important to ensure maximum strength and security of the joint.
The Parts Of A Blind Rivet
A blind rivet, also known as a POP rivet, is a type of fastener that is used to join two pieces of material together without the need for access to the back side of the material. Blind rivets are composed of three main parts: the mandrel, the mandrel head, the rivet pin, and the rivet head.
1. Mandrel
The mandrel is a key component of a blind rivet, also known as a POP rivet. It is a long, thin rod that runs through the center of the rivet. The mandrel is typically made of aluminum, steel, or stainless steel.
The mandrel is responsible for providing the clamping force that holds the two pieces of material together. When the mandrel is inserted through the pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material and the tail is pulled through the body of the rivet, the mandrel expands the body of the rivet, creating a secure hold.
The mandrel is designed to expand the rivet body to a specific diameter that will fill the hole in the material and create a tight grip. The strength of the connection is determined by the diameter and the material of the mandrel, as well as the material and thickness of the two pieces of material being joined.
When the blind rivet is installed, the mandrel is inserted through the pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold.
2. Mandrel Head
The mandrel head is the end of the mandrel that is inserted into the body of the rivet. It is a small cylindrical or dome-shaped head that is located at the end of the mandrel. The mandrel head is responsible for expanding the body of the rivet, creating a secure hold.
When the mandrel head is inserted into the body of the rivet, it pushes against the internal walls of the rivet body, causing it to expand and grip the material being fastened. The mandrel head is designed to be slightly larger than the hole in the material so that when it expands the rivet body, it fills the hole and creates a tight grip.
The mandrel head is an important part of the rivet as it is the one that physically expands the rivet body, creating a secure hold. In some cases, the mandrel head is designed to have multiple grips, which allow the rivet to expand and grip the material at different points, providing a more secure hold.
It’s also worth noting that, when the mandrel head is pulled through the rivet body, the mandrel shank breaks off, leaving the mandrel head inside the rivet body, which ensures that the rivet will not come loose.
3. Rivet Pin
The rivet pin is the part of the blind rivet that is inserted into the hole in the material being fastened. It is also known as the rivet body. The rivet pin is typically made of aluminum, steel, or stainless steel, and it comes in different sizes, shapes, and colors.
The rivet pin is inserted into the pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The mandrel is then inserted through the center of the rivet pin, and the mandrel head is pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet pin and the other is inside the material.
The rivet pin is designed to expand when the mandrel head is pulled through it, creating a secure hold. The shape and size of the rivet pin determine the strength of the connection. The size of the rivet pin is chosen based on the thickness of the material being fastened, and the shape of the rivet pin can affect the overall strength and stability of the fastened joint.
The rivet pin also provides a smooth and finished surface on the material after the installation, which is important in some applications where the appearance of the joint is important.
It’s also worth noting that there are different types of rivet pins such as open-end, closed-end, and countersunk. Each type has its specific characteristics and purposes, and it’s important to choose the right rivet pin for the specific application.
4. Rivet Head
The rivet head, also known as the button head, is the visible part of the blind rivet on the surface of the material being fastened. It is typically made of aluminum, steel or stainless steel, and it comes in different sizes and shapes.
The rivet head is the end of the rivet pin that is inserted into the material. The rivet head is designed to provide a smooth and finished surface on the material after the installation, which is important in some applications where the appearance of the joint is important.
The size and shape of the rivet head can affect the overall strength and stability of the fastened joint. Rivet head size is chosen based on the thickness of the material being fastened. The shape of the rivet head can also affect the overall strength and stability of the fastened joint. Countersunk rivet head, for example, creates a flush surface with the material, making it ideal for applications where a smooth surface is required.
The rivet head is also responsible for providing a grip point for the tool used to pull the mandrel through the rivet body. Some rivet heads have a hole or a slot to facilitate easy installation with a specific tool.
It’s also worth noting that there are different types of rivet heads such as dome, countersunk and large flange heads. Each type has its specific characteristics and purposes, and it’s important to choose the right rivet head for the specific application.
What Are The Different Types Of Blind Rivets?
Blind rivets, also known as POP rivets, are a versatile type of fastener that are used to securely join two pieces of material together without the need for access to the back side of the material. There are several different types of blind rivets available, each with specific characteristics and uses.
1. Single-Grip Rivets:
Single-grip rivets, also known as standard blind rivets, are the most common type of blind rivets. They have a single mandrel head that is designed to expand the rivet body to a specific diameter, creating a tight grip.
This type of rivet is best used for general-purpose fastening and is suitable for most materials. Single-grip rivets are available in a variety of materials such as aluminum, steel, and stainless steel. They come in different sizes and lengths and are suitable for use with materials of varying thicknesses.
To install a single-grip rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold.
Single-grip rivets are commonly used in a wide range of applications such as automotive, construction, aerospace, and manufacturing. They are a versatile fastening solution that is easy to install and provides a secure hold.
2. Multi-Grip Rivets:
Multi-grip rivets, also known as multi-grip blind rivets, have a mandrel head that is designed to expand the rivet body at multiple points, providing a more secure hold.
These rivets are often used in situations where a higher clamping force is required such as in the automotive, construction, and aerospace industries. They are also suitable for use with materials of varying thicknesses, as the multiple points of expansion allow for a better grip on the material.
Multi-grip rivets work similarly to single-grip rivets, but the mandrel head is designed with multiple points of expansion to provide a more secure hold. To install a multi-grip rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold.
Multi-grip rivets are commonly used in situations where a high clamping force is required such as in automotive, construction, aerospace, and manufacturing. They are a versatile fastening solution that is easy to install and provides a secure hold. It’s important to note that multi-grip rivets have a larger head than single-grip rivets, which can cause clearance issues in some applications.
3. Structural Rivets:
Structural rivets are a type of blind rivet that is designed for high-strength applications. They are made of materials such as aluminum, steel, or stainless steel and are suitable for use with materials of varying thicknesses.
Structural rivets have a mandrel head that is designed to expand the rivet body to a specific diameter, creating a tight grip. This type of rivet is best used in situations where a high-strength, permanent bond is required such as in the construction industry, aerospace, and heavy-duty machinery.
The structural rivets have a larger head compared to other blind rivets and also have a higher shear and tensile strength. They can withstand higher loads and provide a more secure hold than standard blind rivets. They are also suitable for use in situations where high vibration or dynamic loads are present.
To install a structural rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold.
It’s important to note that structural rivets have a larger head than standard blind rivets, which can cause clearance issues in some applications. And also that the appropriate size and material of the structural rivet must be selected based on the specific application and the material being fastened.
4. Open-End Rivets:
Open-end rivets, also known as open-end blind rivets, are a type of blind rivet that is designed for use in situations where the back side of the material is not accessible. They have a mandrel head that is designed to expand the rivet body to a specific diameter, creating a tight grip.
Open-end rivets are commonly used in situations where the backside of the material is not accessible and the mandrel shank is visible. This type of rivet is best used in situations where a high-strength, permanent bond is required such as in the construction industry, aerospace, and heavy-duty machinery.
To install an open-end rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold.
It’s worth noting that open-end rivets have a similar installation process as the standard blind rivets, but the mandrel shank is visible on the backside of the material. This type of rivet is commonly used in situations where the back side of the material is not accessible and the mandrel shank is visible. It’s important to choose the right size and material of the open-end rivet based on the specific application and the material being fastened.
5. Closed-End Rivets:
Closed-end rivets, also known as sealed blind rivets, are a type of blind rivet that is designed for use in situations where the back side of the material is not accessible, and the mandrel head is sealed inside the rivet body.
This type of rivet is used in situations where a smooth finish on both sides of the material is required, and where the mandrel shank is not visible. They are also best used in situations where a high-strength, permanent bond is required such as in the construction industry, aerospace, and heavy-duty machinery.
To install a closed-end rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body, and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold.
It’s worth noting that closed-end rivets have a similar installation process as the standard blind rivets, but the mandrel head is sealed inside the rivet body. This type of rivet is commonly used in situations where a smooth finish on both sides of the material is required, and the mandrel shank is not visible. It’s important to choose the right size and material for the closed-end rivet based on the specific application and the material being fastened.
6. Countersunk Rivets:
Countersunk rivets, also known as flush head rivets, are a type of blind rivet that is designed to provide a flush surface with the material, making it ideal for applications where a smooth surface is required. They have a dome-shaped head that sits flush with the surface of the material after installation.
These rivets are mostly used in situations where the appearance of the joint is important, such as in the architectural, aerospace, and automotive industries. They are also suitable for use with materials of varying thicknesses.
To install a countersunk rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body, and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold.
It’s worth noting that countersunk rivets have a similar installation process as the standard blind rivets, but the head of the rivet is designed to sit flush with the surface of the material after installation. It’s important to choose the right size and material of the countersunk rivet based on the specific application and the material being fastened.
7. Large Flange Rivets:
Large flange rivets, also known as oversized head rivets, are a type of blind rivet that is designed for use in situations where a larger head is required for added strength or for decorative purposes. They have a large flange or head that is designed to provide additional strength or as a decorative element.
These rivets are mostly used in situations where a larger head is required, such as in the architectural, aerospace, and automotive industries. They are also suitable for use with materials of varying thicknesses.
To install a large flange rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body, and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold.
It’s worth noting that large flange rivets have a similar installation process as the standard blind rivets, but the head of the rivet is designed to be larger than the standard rivets. It’s important to choose the right size and material of the large flange rivet based on the specific application and the material being fastened. It’s also important to check for clearance issues as the larger head might cause obstruction in some applications.
8. Grooved Rivets:
Grooved rivets, also known as ribbed rivets, are a type of blind rivet that has a groove in the mandrel shank, which allows for greater resistance to pull-out and vibration. The grooves on the mandrel shank increase the surface area of the mandrel, which provides a stronger grip on the material, making it more resistant to vibration and pull-out.
These rivets are commonly used in situations where high vibration or dynamic loads are present such as in the automotive, aerospace, and construction industries. They are also suitable for use with materials of varying thicknesses.
To install a grooved rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body, and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold.
It’s worth noting that grooved rivets have a similar installation process as the standard blind rivets, but the mandrel shank has a groove that increases the surface area of the mandrel, providing a stronger grip on the material. It’s important to choose the right size and material for the grooved rivet based on the specific application and the material being fastened.
9. Self-Plugging Rivets:
Self-plugging rivets, also known as self-sealing rivets, are a type of blind rivet that is designed to seal the hole in the material being fastened. They have a sealant in the mandrel that is designed to create a seal around the mandrel shank.
These rivets are commonly used in situations where a seal is required to protect against moisture or other environmental factors such as in the automotive, aerospace, and construction industries. They are also suitable for use with materials of varying thicknesses.
To install a self-plugging rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body, and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold. The sealant inside the mandrel will then expand and create a seal around the mandrel shank, sealing the hole in the material.
It’s worth noting that self-plugging rivets have a similar installation process as the standard blind rivets, but they have a sealant in the mandrel that is designed to create a seal around the mandrel shank. It’s important to choose the right size and material of the self-plugging rivet based on the specific application and the material being fastened. It’s also important to check the compatibility of the sealant with the material being fastened.
10. Sealed Rivets:
Sealed rivets, also known as sealed blind rivets, are a type of blind rivet that has a sealant in the mandrel that is designed to create a seal around the mandrel shank. They work similarly to self-plugging rivets, but the sealant is typically applied to the mandrel before installation, rather than being pre-inserted into the mandrel.
These rivets are commonly used in situations where a seal is required to protect against moisture or other environmental factors such as in the automotive, aerospace, and construction industries. They are also suitable for use with materials of varying thicknesses.
To install a sealed rivet, the sealant is applied to the mandrel before installation. The mandrel is then inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to break off. This breaks the mandrel into two pieces, one of which is inside the rivet body, and the other is inside the material. The mandrel inside the rivet body then expands, creating a secure hold. The sealant on the mandrel will then expand and create a seal around the mandrel shank, sealing the hole in the material.
It’s worth noting that Sealed rivets have a similar installation process as the self-plugging rivets, but the sealant is applied to the mandrel before installation. It’s important to choose the right size and material for the sealed rivet based on the specific application and the material being fastened. It’s also important to check the compatibility of the sealant with the material being fastened.
11. Snap-Rivets:
Snap rivets, also known as snap-fit rivets, are a type of blind rivet that is designed for easy installation and removal. They have a unique design that allows them to be snapped into place and then locked securely in position. They can be easily removed by unsnapping the mandrel from the rivet body.
These rivets are commonly used in situations where easy installation and removal are important such as in the automotive, aerospace, and construction industries. They are also suitable for use with materials of varying thicknesses.
To install a snap rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then snapped into place, locking the mandrel in position. The mandrel can then be removed by unsnapping it from the rivet body.
It’s worth noting that snap rivets have a unique design that allows them to be snapped into place and then locked securely in position. They can be easily removed by unsnapping the mandrel from the rivet body. They are suitable for applications where easy installation and removal are important but the strength of the joint might not be as high as other types of rivets.
12. Tension Rivets:
Tension rivets, also known as tension-locking rivets, are a type of blind rivet that is designed to provide a secure hold by creating tension on the material being fastened. They have a mandrel that is designed to be pulled through the body of the rivet and then locked in place, creating tension on the material.
These rivets are commonly used in situations where a high clamping force is required such as in the automotive, aerospace, and construction industries. They are also suitable for use with materials of varying thicknesses.
To install a tension rivet, the mandrel is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the two pieces of material that are being joined. The tail is then pulled through the body of the rivet, causing the end of the mandrel to lock in place. This creates tension on the material, providing a secure hold.
It’s worth noting that tension rivets have a unique design that allows them to create tension on the material being fastened. They are suitable for applications where a high clamping force is required but the installation process might be more complex than other types of rivets.
Applications Of Blind Rivets
Blind rivets have a wide range of applications and are used in various industries such as:
- Construction: Blind rivets are commonly used in construction for fastening metal sheets, wood, and other building materials. They are also used to secure metal frames, roofing, and siding.
- Automotive: Blind rivets are used in the automotive industry for fastening body panels, interior trim, and other components.
- Aerospace: Blind rivets are used in the aerospace industry for fastening aircraft components, such as wings and fuselages.
- Marine: Blind rivets are used in the marine industry for fastening boat and ship components, such as decks and hulls.
- Electronics: Blind rivets are used in the electronics industry for fastening circuit boards and other electronic components.
- Medical: Blind rivets are used in the medical industry for fastening medical equipment, such as x-ray machines and MRI scanners.
- Furniture: Blind rivets are used in the furniture industry for fastening furniture components, such as chairs and table legs.
- Industrial: Blind rivets are used in various industrial applications such as in the manufacturing of heavy machinery, appliances, and other equipment.
In general, Blind rivets are versatile fastening solutions because they can be used in a variety of applications, materials, and thicknesses. They are also easy to install and remove, making them a popular choice in many industries.
Advantages Of Pop Rivet
Pop rivets, also known as blind rivets, have a number of advantages, including:
- Easy to install: Pop rivets are easy to install and can be used in tight spaces or locations where access is limited. They can be installed with a variety of tools, such as a manual or pneumatic rivet gun.
- Strong and durable: Pop rivets are a strong and durable fastening solution. They can be used to join a wide range of materials and are suitable for use in a variety of environments.
- Versatile: Pop rivets are versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications, including construction, automotive, aerospace, marine, electronics, and more.
- Cost-effective: Pop rivets are a cost-effective fastening solution. They are relatively inexpensive and can be used in large-scale projects.
- Variety of types: There are many types of pop rivets available, such as sealed, multi-grip, structural, open-end, and closed-end rivets, which can be chosen based on specific application needs.
- Speed: Pop rivets can be installed quickly and efficiently, making them a good option for high-volume production and assembly lines.
- Appearance: Some types of pop rivets, such as countersunk and closed-end rivets, can provide a smooth finish on both sides of the material, which is important for some applications.
- Easy to remove: Some types of pop rivets, such as snap rivets, can be easily removed by unsnapping the mandrel from the rivet body.
Disadvantages Of Pop Rivet
Pop rivets, also known as blind rivets, have a few disadvantages, including:
- Limited strength: Pop rivets are not as strong as some other fastening methods, such as solid rivets, and may not be suitable for high-stress applications or heavy loads.
- Limited access: Pop rivets are not suitable for use in situations where access to the back side of the material is required, as they can only be installed from one side.
- Limited thickness: Pop rivets are not suitable for use with very thick materials, as the mandrel may not be long enough to reach through the material.
- Limited materials: Pop rivets are not suitable for use with some types of materials, such as plastic and rubber, as they may not be able to grip the material securely.
- Limited resistance to vibration: Some types of pop rivets, such as standard blind rivets, might not be as resistant to vibration as other types like grooved rivets
- Limited resistance to corrosion: Some types of pop rivets, such as standard blind rivets, might not be as resistant to corrosion as other types like sealed rivets.
- Limited aesthetic: Some types of pop rivets, such as standard blind rivets, might not be as visually pleasing as other types like countersunk rivets.
- Limited reusability: Some types of pop rivets, such as standard blind rivets, might not be reusable as the mandrel breaks off during the installation process.
FAQs.
What are pop rivets?
Pop rivets, also known as blind rivets, are a type of fastener that are used to join two pieces of material together. They consist of a mandrel and a hollow body that is inserted through a pre-drilled hole in the material. The mandrel is then pulled through the body, causing the end to break off, which locks the mandrel in place and secures the joint.
What materials can be used with pop rivets?
Pop rivets can be used with a wide range of materials, including metal, wood, and plastic. However, they may not be suitable for use with some types of materials, such as rubber or materials that are too thick.
What are the different types of pop rivets?
There are several types of pop rivets, including standard blind rivets, sealed rivets, multi-grip rivets, structural rivets, open-end rivets, closed-end rivets, countersunk rivets, large flange rivets, grooved rivets, self-plugging rivets, snap-rivets, and tension rivets.
What are the advantages of using pop rivets?
Pop rivets have several advantages, including easy installation, strong and durable hold, versatility, cost-effectiveness, variety of types, speed, appearance, and ease of removal for some types.
What are the disadvantages of using pop rivets?
Pop rivets have a few disadvantages, including limited strength, limited access, limited thickness, limited materials, limited resistance to vibration and corrosion, limited aesthetics, and limited reusability.
How are pop rivets installed?
Pop rivets are installed by inserting the mandrel through a pre-drilled hole in the material, pulling the tail of the mandrel through the body of the rivet, and causing the end of the mandrel to break off, which locks the mandrel in place and securing the joint.
Can pop rivets be removed?
Some types of pop rivets, such as snap rivets, can be easily removed by unsnapping the mandrel from the rivet body. However, standard blind rivets, once installed, cannot be removed as the mandrel breaks off during the installation process.
Can pop rivets be used in outdoor applications?
Some types of pop rivets, such as sealed rivets, are designed to provide protection against moisture and other environmental factors and can be used in outdoor applications. However, it’s important to check the compatibility of the sealant with the material being fastened. Standard pop rivets may not be suitable for outdoor use as they may not be as resistant to corrosion.
Can pop rivets be used in high-vibration applications?
Some types of pop rivets, such as grooved rivets, are designed to provide additional resistance to vibration. However, standard pop rivets may not be suitable for high-vibration applications as they may not provide enough resistance to vibration.
Is there a size limit for pop rivets?
Yes, there is a size limit for pop rivets, as the mandrel may not be long enough to reach through the material if it is too thick. It’s important to choose the right size of pop rivet for the specific application and the material being fastened.
Can pop rivets be painted?
Yes, pop rivets can be painted, but it’s important to ensure that the paint is compatible with the material of the pop rivet and the material being fastened.
