self piercing rivets

A self-piercing (or metal piercing) rivet is similar to a tubular rivet except that they are produced from a stronger material and can be heat-treated to increase piercing capability. Piercing rivets are manufactured from a variety of grades of carbon steel, aluminum and stainless steel materials.

Self-piercing rivets often replace spot welding and other "button" style clinch methods when a stronger fastened joint is required. Self-piercing riveted joints rely on the strength of the permanently fastened hardened rivet rather than the softer material being fastened or a difficult to inspect weld. Successfully clinched self pierce riveted joints are much easier to inspect (visually) compared to spot-welded or "button" style clinch methods. When properly installed, self pierced riveted joints will not come apart.

Why use self-piercing rivets?

High-speed assembly. Rivets feed automatically in impact Rivet Machines that cycle in approximately 3/10th of a second

No need for pre-drilled or punched work-piece holes

Does not destroy painted or coated work-piece finishes

Inexpensive perishable tooling is used

Provides strong permanent fastened joints that are easy to visually inspect. If the rivet has pierced and clinched work-pieces, the joint is good

If desired, the riveted joint can be air and watertight

Low cost of fastener

Easily adapted for automation