HOW BLIND RIVETS WORK

The standard blind break-mandrel rivet is comprised of two components, a rivet body and mandrel. The blind rivet is first placed into an installation tool, and is then inserted into the application. Activating the tool pulls the blind rivet's mandrel drawing the mandrel head into the blind-end of the rivet body. This action forms an upset head on the rivet body and securely clamps the application materials together. Finally the mandrel reaches its predetermined break-load, with the spent portion of the mandrel breaking away and being removed from the set blind rivet. Fast, easy-to-use blind rivets offer speed of assembly, consistent mechanical performance and excellent installed appearance, making blind riveting a reliable and economical assembly method.

The graph illustrates the mechanical function of a blind break-mandrel rivet during installation.

Dome Head Blind Rivet

The Dome Head Blind Rivet is the most widely available and commonly used head style. The dome head flange offers good bearing surface and is suitable for many applications. Dome Head blind rivets are available in 3/32", 1/8", 5/32", 3/16" and 1/4" ø in all materials.

Countersunk Head - 120° Blind Rivet

The Countersunk Head Blind Rivet is used in applications requiring a flush surface. Countersunk blind rivets are available in 1/8", 5/32", and 3/16" ø.

Material Compatibility of Blind Rivet

The Blind Rivet selected should be compatible with the materials being joined. Dissimilar materials can cause failure due to galvanic corrosion. GESIPA Blind Rivets are available in the following material combinations:

• Aluminum Rivet/Aluminum Mandrel
• Aluminum Rivet/Steel Mandrel
• Aluminum Rivet/Stainless Steel Mandrel
• Steel Rivet/Steel Mandrel
• Stainless Steel Rivet/Steel Mandrel
• Stainless Steel Rivet/Stainless Steel Mandrel
• Copper Rivet/Steel Mandrel
• Copper Rivet/Bronze Mandrel
• Plastic Rivet/Plastic Mandrel

Strength Requirements of Blind Rivet

The joint strength required will determine the diameter and spacing of the GESIPA Blind Rivet.

Material Thickness for Blind Rivet

Each GESIPA Blind Rivet is engineered for a specific range of material thickness for which it will be effective. This range of material or work thickness is the blind rivet’s "grip range".

Hole Size for Blind Rivet

Proper hole size is important to insure the integrity of the fastened joint. The recommended hole size and tolerances are shown in the technical data charts. Oversized holes can cause problems in blind riveted joints. A solution is to select a blind rivet which creates an oversized upset head (see Bulb-tite and Tri-fold rivets).