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Buying a Hydraulic Riveter/Rivet Gun

Buying Guides - Air Tools

A rivet is basically a metal fastener, a versatile tool that finds varied mechanical applications, and a Hydraulic riveter is a machine that is used to fix the rivets. The rivet consists of a cylindrical rod that has a fused head at one end, which is broader than the diameter of the body of the rivet. The head is also broader than the hole into which the rivet would fit in. With the metal head flush against one surface of the material concerned, the rivet is held in place by the riveter, with the other end that juts out being clinched. Since a rivet may be subjected to a lot of strain, it is made of a reinforced material. Considering the rigid construction of the rivet, it can be tedious for a human operator to fix the rivets, especially when the total number of rivets used in a particular task may be large. This makes an appliance such as a hydraulic riveter a mandatory gadget in any large scale mechanical undertaking. Though manually operated, this machine is hydraulically powered. The device is compatible with a variety of rivets, such as aluminum, steel, and stainless steel. The hydraulic riveter supports even blind rivets. Blind rivets are hollow with a mandrel in the center. After being inserted into the concerned hole, the mandrel of the rivet is drawn within the rivet, expanding the end opposite the head. Hydraulic riveters are designed to work with rivets of different diameters and materials. They are generally used in industries such as automobile workshops, metal working units, as well as by mobile home builders. Some of the other applications of hydraulic riveters include aluminum, and fiberglass boats, heating/air-conditioning devices, lighting fixtures, trailers, construction, electrical/electronic gadgets, furniture, and vending machines.

Features and working of hydraulic riveters

The hydraulic riveter works by increasing hydrostatic pressure; a force of a particular magnitude on a small area is magnified when projected to a larger area. This apparatus, which could weigh as little as 28 ounces, and can generate more than 3,500 pounds of power, enabling even the most tenacious rivets to be inserted, pulled, and clinched. Judging by the immense pressures the device is subjected to; most hydraulic riveters have a pressure-releasing air valve that eases excess pressure, prolonging the life of the product while enabling uninterrupted operation of the gadget for longer periods.

The device is designed to clamp the rivets into the nosepiece, irrespective of the tool position, offering maximum shock absorption. A vacuum system retains the rivets in the nosepiece, even if the tool is pointing downwards. The head and nut assembly is adjustable to increase the efficiency of the stroke. The jaw system, too, incorporates an adjustable nose assembly, which can be adjusted to be compatible with rivets having sizes ranging from 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch. The jaw set can be either a two or a three piece construction, made of high-grade steel and subjected to a specific heat treatment to enhance strength and durability. A side-mounted air-inlet joint that is capable of swiveling increases the maneuverability of the device.

One of the most powerful desk top riveters today, is the hydraulic orbital riveter, which uses an air pressure of as much 1000 pounds per Square inch, generating a downward force of approximately 38,500 pounds. The tool stroke can be adjusted in increments of 0.03 mm, from around 1.52 mm to 76.2 mm.

What to look for in a hydraulic riveter

Most handheld hydraulic riveters work under the air pressure ranging between 90 to 120 pounds per square inch (PSI). The device should preferably be light and portable, but at the same time sturdy. An ergonomic design prevents overwork of the arms and back, and minimizes wear and tear. A rubber boot forms a cushion between the tool and the work surface, enhancing shock absorption. There are varying sized nose pieces shipped with the riveter, for differing rivet diameters; some of these dimensions are 3/16 inches, 5/32 inches, 1/8 inches, and 3/32 inches. Some of the hydraulic riveters incorporate a cylinder cap, with a vacant space within for the spare nose pieces. Most hydraulic riveters from recognized companies are required to comply with international standards, as far as quality, durability, strength, and most importantly, safety of the device are concerned. Some of the reputed companies manufacturing hydraulic riveters include Astro Pneumatic, Campbell Hausfeld, Chicago Pneumatic, Huck International, Marson, and Zipp Tool Limited.

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