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
