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The Revolution of Pop Riveting
The Revolution of Pop Riveting
Pop riveting is an effective method for securing materials when space is limited beneath the connection points. It offers a reliable alternative to traditional bolts and screws.
What is a Pop Rivet?
A pop rivet is designed to join two parts from the top, eliminating the need for access underneath. Originally developed by the manufacturer POP® for aircraft during the war, its use has since expanded to automotive, furniture, and appliance industries.
How does it work?
Pop rivets require a riveter that pulls the mandrel into the body, causing it to expand and create a tight seal underneath. Once secured, the mandrel snaps off, forming a permanent fixture.
This is the basic operation of pop rivets, but various types exist for different applications.
Before starting, it's crucial to determine the type and size of rivet needed for a secure bond. Measure the hole sizes to select the appropriate rivet size, and never force a rivet into an oversized hole. Consider the rivet length to ensure it doesn't interfere with components underneath. Additionally, assess the head type and the materials being secured, such as flat or dome shapes and varying head sizes.
Types of Pop Rivets
Numerous rivet types are available, each suited for specific jobs and offering different tensile strengths.
Open Ended Rivets
These hollow blind rivets come pre-assembled onto a headed pin or mandrel and are suitable for most industrial riveting applications.
Closed-End Blind Rivets
These rivets are fully sealed for applications requiring watertight integrity or when stem retention is critical. Once applied, they form a seal that prevents liquid or vapour passage at pressures up to 100psi.
Micro Rivets
Designed for small applications, such as thin metal sheets and printed circuit boards, these 2mm aluminium open-end rivets are ideal for microelectronics.
Pull Through
This type is used when clearance is limited and a flush surface is required, commonly found in the electronics industry.
Soft set
Open-end rivets suitable for more brittle materials, such as plastic furniture and lighting, while ensuring a firm connection.
What do you need to pop rivet?
- Drill
- Drill Bit - An appropriate size
- Pop Rivets
- Riveter - This can be a rivet gun or a lazy tong riveter
How to Rivet
Please note: This example uses a Mcculloch M40-450C with a Briggs and Stratton 9T502 Engine.
If the parts are already secured and, for instance, the recoil assembly needs removal from the housing, you will need to drill out the old rivets.
- Using a power drill, drill out the old rivets (it may help to secure the housing in a vice to prevent movement while drilling).
- Next, position the new recoil, aligning it with the holes to insert the new pop rivets.
- With a riveter, apply firm pressure on the rivet and press several times until the rivet is secure and the mandrel breaks, joining the parts. Repeat until all rivets are replaced.
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
References
No copyright infringement intended. All information is for informational purposes only. Copyright belongs to Stanley Engineered Fastening.
https://www.stanleyengineeredfastening.com/brands/pop
