When working with light finishing materials, small-format fasteners are often used. To fix thin metal sheets, chipboard or plastic panels, it usually does not make sense to use screws or nails, but staples are not always the best solution. The best way to do this is to use rivets. Provided that the step of introducing this hardware is correctly calculated, it is possible to ensure accurate and sufficient fastening in strength. The quality of the work will also be determined by the rivet gun used, which has different modifications and characteristics.
Introduction to manual rivet gun
This is the simplest kind of riveting tool, but this does not mean that it is ineffective in work. Such models usually have two handles and a pressure mechanism that works due to physical effort. A more sophisticated modification is a rivet gun with large handles. While using the normal version of the tool, the user can secure with one hand, in this case, the pressure is realized due to the effort from both hands.
Regarding the performance and usability of manualriveters, then here, indeed, not everything is clear. For serial long-term work with small hardware, this option may not be the best, since the operator's hand will quickly get tired. But unlike battery and network models, the manual riveter has no restrictions in terms of application conditions. It is wear-resistant in relation to mechanical influences, is not afraid of moisture, is easily cleaned from pollution and does not depend on energy sources.
Varieties of hand models
Usually, there is a classic version of the riveter, which was described above, devices with a swivel head and rocker-type modifications. The simplest version can also be enhanced by a ratchet mechanism, which facilitates the process of pressing the handles. Versions with a swivel head are advantageous in that they can be used in hard-to-reach places where there are difficulties in terms of guiding and positioning the hardware. The rocker rivet gun has only one handle, operating on the principle of a one-way scissor mechanism. That is, the compression is implemented not from different sides of the two handles, but in one direction. Just if we are talking about the serial fastening of a large number of elements, then this option will be the most convenient. For this reason, rocker modifications are often used in the construction industry and in production.
What are rivets for a riveter?
Riveting materials vary in size, material, and design. Concerningsizes, then the length of such hardware can be 6-20 mm, and in thickness - an average of 3 to 6 mm. The material of manufacture is represented by metals, including aluminum and steel. Aluminum rivets are considered less durable, but their use is justified when it comes to fastening thin wood and plastic panels. Almost any rivet gun can handle such fasteners, since the workflow requires little effort. Steel models can be used in the installation of metal sheets, so the gun must be selected with the appropriate power potential. In terms of design, rivets can be divided into threaded and exhaust rivets. Accordingly, the first option is a smaller variety of studs, and the second one resembles a small screw.
Operating instructions
Before starting work, make a hole with a drill at the point of future installation of fasteners. Then the rivet head is inserted into the prepared tool holder. After that, it is very important to ensure that the position of the hardware is perpendicular to the working surface. When positioning is completed, you can apply force through the working bodies of the riveter. As a result, a fixing head of the rivet should be formed from the outside, and a kind of ball-holder - from the inside. In order for the manual rivet gun to maintain its function stably, it must be properly maintained. After each working session, you need to clean, wash and dry the surfaces. Depending on the material of manufacture of the structure, it may be necessary andperiodic treatment with protective oils, which will protect the gun from rust and other negative processes.
How to choose a rivet gun?
Pay attention to different design characteristics. Of course, the main one should be the ability to support rivets of a certain format. Universal models in this regard are the most beneficial, as they allow you to work with a wide range of diameters - an average of 3 to 6 mm. It is also worth considering the implementation of the mechanism that captures the hardware. As experienced craftsmen note, it is advisable to choose a manual riveter with a three-lobed collet grip system that securely fixes the work item. It will also be useful to take into account ergonomic features. This applies to the number of bits in the kit, the material of the frame of the handles and the weight of the tool - the lighter it is, the easier it will be to perform serial operations.
Conclusion
The rivet fastening system as such is considered one of the best for several reasons. Its main advantage lies in the fact that with a minimum content of foreign material in the form of hardware, a high degree of fastening can be provided. Both from the outside and from the inside, only a small fastener point remains, which practically does not spoil the appearance of the surface. Unlike nails, screws and self-tapping screws, the rivet gun provides two-sided fastening of the material, on which the reliability of this technique is based. Another thing is that notit is always possible to technically implement this method. It is suitable for use only in those cases where it is possible to drill a preparatory hole and exit to the back of the working base.
