Blind Rivets
Stainless, Aluminum & Steel; Dome, Countersunk, Large Flange & Closed End Styles.
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What are Blind Rivets Used for?
Blind rivets, often called pop rivets, are used to fasten two or more pieces together when you can’t reach the back side for a nut or bucking bar. They’re common in HVAC ducting, metal cabinets, gutters, automotive trim, trailers, and general fabrication. They also work well for field repairs, especially when you need reliable repair parts that can be installed with basic tools. Because these tubular fasteners expand during setting, they’re useful for thin materials where threads may strip or welds aren’t practical. Selecting the right grip range matters since it determines how well the rivet clamps the stack-up. For mixed thicknesses, an extra-wide grip range can help cover more variation while still setting properly. Choose the rivet material to match the application and exposure.
How to Install Blind Hole Rivets
Start by selecting a rivet size with the correct grip range for your material thickness, then create clean drilled holes to the recommended diameter. Insert the rivet into the hole until the head seats against the surface. With a rivet gun, pull the mandrel straight and steady so the blind end expands behind the workpiece. As the blind end expands, it clamps the materials together, then the mandrel snaps at a designed break point. Check that the head is fully seated and the joint is tight with no gaps. If you need a flush finish, choose a countersunk head and prep the hole accordingly. For stronger assemblies, steel blind rivets are a common pick, but match material to corrosion needs and the surfaces being joined.
Bulk Blind Rivets for Crafts and Manufacturing
Whether you’re running a production line or building one-off projects, buying in volume helps keep sizes consistent and reduces restocking headaches. Bulk blind rivets are useful for makers, maintenance teams, and manufacturers who set rivets daily in enclosures, brackets, panels, and light structural assemblies. Wholesale blind rivets purchasing can also support contract work where multiple jobs use the same diameter and head style. Keeping a few common head styles on hand, like dome, large flange, and countersunk options, lets you handle different surface needs without switching fastening methods. Stocking open end rivets is practical for general work, while closed-end styles help in applications where you want a sealed blind end to limit moisture entry. Bulk ordering also makes rework simpler when you need matching fasteners for repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are blind rivets?
Blind rivets are rivets designed to be installed from one side of the assembly. A mandrel pulls through the rivet body, causing the blind end to expand behind the material to clamp the pieces together. They’re widely used for quick, reliable fastening in thin materials.
What materials are blind rivets made from?
Blind rivets are commonly made from aluminum, steel, and stainless steel, with different mandrel material combinations available. Material choice affects strength and corrosion performance. For outdoor or wet environments, stainless is often preferred, while steel and aluminum cover many indoor and general-use applications.
What sizes and styles are available for blind rivets?
Blind rivets come in many diameters and lengths, with styles selected by head and body design. Options include dome heads, large flange, closed end, and open end rivets. You’ll also see specialty options like countersunk head designs for flush installs and different grip range ratings.
Are blind rivets functional or just decorative?
They’re functional fasteners used for real load and vibration conditions, not just appearance. Head styles can affect how the load is distributed, but the primary purpose is clamping materials securely. They’re often chosen when screws or threaded fasteners aren’t practical or accessible.
Are blind rivets available in bulk?
Yes. Bulk blind rivets are available in box and case quantities for shops and production use. If you’re ordering blind rivets for sale for recurring work, bulk purchasing helps standardize sizes, reduce downtime, and keep your rivet inventory consistent across projects.