How to choose rivets: material, diameter and length

To choose a rivet you have to decide four things, in this order: the type (blind rivet or rivet nut), the material, the diameter and the length. The diameter is that of the hole you can drill. The length depends on the total thickness to be clamped. The material must be matched to that of the parts to avoid corrosion: aluminium on aluminium, stainless steel on stainless steel. If you need a thread in thin sheet, you do not want an ordinary rivet but a rivet nut.

The types

• Blind rivets. The most common case: they are pushed into the hole, the riveter snaps off the mandrel and the body expands. In the collection you will find, for example, the Bossong RIV AL-AC 9010 B and RIV AL-AC 9002 BG, and the round-head aluminium rivets.
• Aluminium, copper and stainless steel rivets. The body changes according to use: aluminium for light sheet, copper where compatibility with copper is needed, stainless steel for damp or outdoor environments.
• Rivet nuts. They create a threaded seat in thin sheet. The Fervi 0376 series covers the steel, stainless steel and aluminium versions, with threads from M3 to M12.
• Male/female rivets. A threaded variant in the collection: check the sizes and use on the data sheet.
• ALG line rivets. For example the ALG rivet Fischer.
• Assortments. Boxes with several diameters and lengths, useful for a workshop that does not know in advance what it will need.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

Body and mandrel material. Aluminium, copper or stainless steel for the body; galvanised steel or A2 stainless steel for the mandrel. The body is matched to the part, the mandrel provides the holding strength.

Diameter. In the collection there are diameters from 3 to 4.8 mm in various combinations. It is also the diameter of the hole to drill.

Length. From 5-6 mm up to 25 mm. It is chosen on the total thickness to be clamped, with a little margin for deformation.

Thread (rivet nuts). From M3 to M12. Choose the size of the screw you will be fitting.

Pack size. The pieces per pack and the packaging matter for orders and stock.

Common mistakes

• Mixing different metals. Aluminium and steel in contact in a damp environment corrode.
• Rivet too short or too long. Too short: it will not hold. Too long: it deforms badly.
• Hole too large. The rivet works badly and the fastening is loose.
• Using an ordinary rivet where a thread is needed. A screw in thin sheet works loose.
• Not checking the riveter. The nosepiece must match the size of the rivet.

Frequently asked questions

What hole diameter should I drill?

The one specified for the rivet: you will find it on the product data sheet.

How do I choose the length?

Measure the total thickness of the parts to be joined and choose a length suited to that range, as specified for the rivet.

Aluminium or stainless steel?

Aluminium for light sheet in normal environments, stainless steel for damp outdoor use or stainless steel parts.

Can I use the same rivet for different metals?

It is best to avoid combinations that promote corrosion, especially outdoors. If in doubt, choose a rivet of the same metal as the parts, or a stainless steel one.

How many rivets should I use?

It depends on the load and the length of the joint. The closer together they are, the stronger the joint, but you must not weaken the sheet with holes too close to the edge.

To choose the right rivet, see the rivets collection and ask the AMES technicians for a quote or advice.