Using a hole rivet, also known as a pop rivet, involves a straightforward process of inserting the rivet into pre-drilled holes and using a rivet gun to create a secure fastening. Here's a detailed breakdown of the process:
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Hole Rivets
Preparation
- Drill Holes: Make sure you have drilled the proper size hole through the materials that you will rivet together. The hole should be slightly larger than the rivet's diameter.
- Select the Correct Rivet: Use a rivet that is appropriate for the thickness of the materials you are joining.
Riveting Process
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Insert the Rivet: Push the rivet through the aligned holes of the materials you wish to fasten together. The head of the rivet should sit flat on one side of the material.
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Position the Rivet Gun: Place the rivet gun's nozzle over the protruding stem of the rivet.
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Operate the Rivet Gun: According to the YouTube video "Pop Riveting for Beginners", repeatedly squeeze the handle of the rivet gun. This action pulls the stem of the rivet through the rivet body. This expands the back side of the rivet within the hole.
- Note: You will feel resistance, then the rivet stem will break or "pop" with a snap. The reference video notes: "So push down and I'm going to let up. I'm going to push down. Again. There we go that's. It"
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Inspect the Result: The rivet should be firmly in place. The pulled-off stem is discarded. The reference video says: "this is the piece that's discarded."
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Completed Joint: You will now have a finished, secure joint. The reference states: "And there we go there's our rivet."
Summary
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Drill Holes | Create holes in the materials you want to join. |
| 2. Insert Rivet | Place the rivet through the aligned holes. |
| 3. Position Rivet Gun | Place the nozzle of the rivet gun on the rivet stem. |
| 4. Operate Rivet Gun | Repeatedly squeeze the rivet gun's handle until the stem breaks. |
| 5. Discard Stem | Discard the broken-off piece of the rivet stem. |
Practical Insights
- Rivet Gun Choice: Use a rivet gun that is appropriate for the rivets you will use. There are different sizes and types of rivet guns available.
- Proper Fit: Ensuring the correct rivet size is important. Use a rivet that has a diameter slightly smaller than the hole, and that the body of the rivet is long enough for the material to be joined.
- Practice: If you are new to riveting, practice on scrap materials before working on your final project to get the feel for it.
