What are Structural Rivets?
Structural rivets are high-strength blind rivets. A tool pulls the mandrel to expand the body in a snug hole, then a lock keeps the mandrel captured inside the rivet. The retained mandrel and locked core increase shear and tensile performance for tough joints.
When should I choose structural vs standard blind rivets?
- Pick structural for higher shear or tensile requirements, vibration-prone joints, or when specifications call for a mandrel-retained design.
- Pick standard (open end, large flange, countersunk, tri-fold) for general fastening, appearance needs, or soft-material load spreading without structural ratings.
Do structural rivets retain the mandrel?
Yes. Structural designs use an internal/mechanical lock to hold the mandrel after break. This helps keep clamp force and improves resistance to pullout and shear.
What drill size should I use for structural rivets?
Use a snug, clean hole and deburr both sides. Typical pairings are shown below; confirm the exact drill for the series you select.
| Nominal rivet diameter | Recommended hole size (in) | Common drill size |
|---|---|---|
| 1/8 in | 0.129 to 0.133 | #30 |
| 5/32 in | 0.160 to 0.164 | #20 |
| 3/16 in | 0.192 to 0.196 | #11 |
| 1/4 in | 0.257 to 0.261 | Letter F |
Notes: Keep the hole just over the body diameter, drill square to the surface, and deburr both sides for consistent setting.
Where are structural rivets used?
- Vehicle bodies, trailers, and container fabrication
- Heavy equipment panels and frames
- Construction and industrial enclosures with high load or vibration
- General fabrication requiring retained-mandrel designs
How to choose size, material, and head style
- Grip range: match the rated range to the total stack thickness. If you are near the limit, step to the next range.
- Material: stainless for corrosion resistance, steel for economy strength, aluminum for lower weight where allowed by the joint design.
- Head style: dome for general use, large flange to add bearing on thin or soft sheet, countersunk for a flush surface (match the countersink angle).
Installation and best practices
- Measure total stack thickness; select a rivet whose grip range covers it.
- Drill to the size above, then deburr both sides. Verify the correct nosepiece for the mandrel size.
- Seat the head flat against the work and support the joint. Pull the mandrel until it snaps and locks.
- For splash resistance, pair correct hole sizing with closed-end styles or a compatible sealant at the head interface when needed.
Common issues and quick fixes
- Loose or rocking joint, outside the grip range. Re-select the correct range or diameter.
- Rivet spins, hole oversized. Step up diameter or verify drill size and deburring.
- Head not seating, burrs or angled drilling. Re-drill square and deburr both sides.
Why buy Structural Rivets from AlbanyCountyFasteners.com
- Mandrel-locking structural designs in popular diameters and grip ranges
- Stainless options focused on corrosion resistance
- Fast shipping with contractor-friendly pack sizes
- USA-based support for sizing, drills, and installation
FAQs
Brief answers to help you select and install structural rivets correctly.
What makes a rivet “structural”?
A mandrel-retaining lock in the core and a design aimed at higher shear and tensile performance compared to standard blind rivets.
Are structural rivets stronger than tri-fold or standard open end?
Yes. Structural designs target higher strength. Use tri-fold for soft materials where load spreading matters more than peak strength.
Do structural rivets seal water?
Not automatically. Choose a closed-end structural style or add a compatible sealant when sealing is required.
What drill size should I use for 3/16 in structural rivets?
#11 is common for many 3/16 in series. Always confirm for your exact part number and deburr both sides.
What tools do I need?
A compatible blind rivet tool with the correct nosepiece for the mandrel size. Verify pull capacity for larger diameters.