Rivets and Riveting Tools

Hammer Drive Rivets

Solid rivets consist of a solid cylindrical shaft and a pre-formed head, requiring the tail to be plastically deformed via a bucking bar or pneumatic hammer to finalize the joint. This deformation process work-hardens the material, resulting in exceptional shear strength and a highly reliable, permanent structural connection. Conversely, hammer drive rivets are blind fasteners set by striking a central pin, which expands the tail radially for quick, non-structural assembly. Solid rivets are mandated in critical load-bearing aerospace structures and bridge construction, while hammer drive rivets are relegated to light trim and signage mounting.