Set blind rivets in 3 easy steps
The comprehensive guide to a strong riveted joint
Setting blind rivets is the ideal fastening solution when access to the joint is only possible from one side. They are used in numerous industries, from automotive to general manufacturing.
But how do you set blind rivets correctly?
Here you will learn how to create a secure and strong connection in three easy steps with our blind riveting instructions.
Contents
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Preparation and selection of the right blind rivet
Step 2: Insert the blind rivet and position the blind rivet tool
Step 3: Carry out the riveting process and check the connection
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
What can blind rivets be used for?
Examples from practice
Conclusion
The step-by-step guide
Step 1:
preparing and selecting the right blind rivets
Before you start setting the blind rivets, it is important to select the appropriate components:
Blind rivet type:
Select the blind rivet according to the materials you want to join. Aluminium, steel or stainless steel blind rivets are suitable depending on the application.
Rivet diameter:
The diameter of the blind rivet should match the drill hole to ensure an optimal connection.
Drill hole preparation:
Make sure that the hole is clean and free of burrs. The drill hole size should ideally be about 0.1 mm larger than the rivet diameter.
Example: For a blind rivet with a diameter of 4.8 mm, the drill hole should be 4.9 mm.
Step 2:
Insert the blind rivet and attach the blind rivet tool
Insert the selected blind rivet into the prepared hole. Make sure that the blind rivet is inserted in the correct direction into the drill hole.
Place the blind rivet tool on the mandrel of the blind rivet. GESIPA® offers a wide range of manual, battery-powered or hydro-pneumatic blind rivet tools.
Make sure that the blind rivet tool is applied straight to ensure optimal processing.
Step 3:
Execute the riveting process and check the connection
Activate the blind rivet tool. This deforms the blind rivet head and creates a firm connection. The mandrel breaks automatically at the predetermined breaking point as soon as the required setting force is reached.
If necessary, remove the broken mandrel from the blind rivet tool and check the connection for firm seating and correct deformation.
Tip: With innovative blind rivet setting tools such as the GESIPA® Bird® Pro series, you can set blind rivets particularly efficiently and ergonomically.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Wrong
hole size:
If the hole is too big or too small, the blind rivet will not hold properly. Make sure you use the recommended diameters.
Incorrectly applied blind rivet tool:
If the blind rivet tool is not held straight, the rivet sleeve may not be deformed evenly. Always hold the tool straight.
Unsuitable
materials:
Always use a blind rivet that is compatible with the materials being joined to ensure a strong connection.
Incorrect nosepiece:
If the nosepiece is not suitable for the riveting tool, the blind rivet may not be set correctly or may be damaged. Use the GESIPA® nosepiece finder to determine the right nosepiece for your setting tool and the blind rivet to ensure that the rivet is set correctly.
What can blind rivets be used for?
Blind rivets are indispensable in many areas and can be found more often than you might expect in everyday life. In particular, riveting is often the only way to permanently join two workpieces in places that are difficult to access. Whether in metal construction, solar technology or facade installation – blind rivets provide a reliable and stable solution for a wide range of applications.
Securely fastening number plates
Even in places that vibrate or are subject to heavy wear, blind rivets work reliably.
With the right blind rivet tool and suitable mandrel, a permanent connection is created that securely fixes the number plate
Installing banisters
Blind rivets are an efficient and secure way to fasten stair and balcony railings. They provide a stable connection, even in hard-to-reach places. With the right blind riveting instructions and high-quality pliers, blind rivets can be set with particular precision.
Securely fastening transport rollers
Blind rivets provide a stable connection for securely fastening transport rollers to box bases. With the right blind riveting instructions, high-quality blind rivet tools and the right mandrel, assembly is quick and reliable – even with heavy loads.
Examples from practice
Solar applications
A company in the solar industry used blind rivets to fasten mounting rails for photovoltaic modules to aluminium frames.
By using GESIPA® blind rivets, it was possible to create a weather-resistant and durable connection. Since access to both sides of the profiles was often restricted, setting blind rivets proved to be the ideal solution for mounting the solar panels efficiently and safely.
Curtain wall facades
A metal construction company used blind rivets to fasten facade panels to a large office building.
By using high-quality GESIPA® blind rivets, the fitters were able to guarantee a secure and durable connection without having to work from the back of the facade. This significantly accelerated the assembly process and ensured a visually appealing, stable construction.
Conclusion
Setting blind rivets is particularly easy with the right tools and good preparation.
By choosing the right blind rivets and high-quality blind rivet tools from GESIPA®, you can be sure of achieving stable, long-lasting joints.
If you have any further questions about blind riveting technology or require advice on our products, we will be happy to help!
