Simple solution for joining metal without welding
FAQ
Can metal be glued together?
Yes, you can glue metals together. Modern adhesives offer strong bonds that are sufficient for many applications. Specialised adhesives that can bond metal parts effectively and permanently are used in industry and trade in particular. This technology has made considerable progress in recent years and enables connections that were previously only achievable using traditional methods such as welding or riveting.
However, riveting metals offers significant advantages over bonding, especially when it comes to structural applications. Riveting creates mechanical joints that are often more resistant to high temperatures, mechanical stresses and environmental influences than bonded joints. This method also makes it possible to achieve a more even load distribution across the joint, which improves the structural integrity and longevity of the design. As a result, many engineers and designers favour riveting when it comes to critical applications where safety and durability are paramount.
How does soldering differ from welding?
Soldering and welding are both processes that play an important role in metal processing, but they differ fundamentally in their application and properties. When soldering, you join metal parts by using a filler metal with a lower melting point than the parts to be joined.
This filler metal, often referred to as solder, is placed between the surfaces to be joined and heated until it melts and joins the parts as it cools. In contrast, when welding, you fuse the metal parts together directly by heating the joint to a temperature high enough to melt the metals. You often add an additional welding material to strengthen the joint. So while soldering is a method that works at lower temperatures by using a third metal, welding requires melting the base metals themselves, which usually involves higher temperatures and a direct connection of the workpieces.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of soldering compared to riveting?
The soldering process offers the advantage that you can achieve a tight and conductive connection, which is particularly important for electrical connections. Soldering also allows different metals to be joined and ensures a smooth surface at the joint.
However, soldering requires a certain heat resistance of the materials to be joined and can lead to weak connections if not used correctly.
In contrast, riveting is a mechanical joining technique that does not require heat. The advantage of riveting is that it guarantees high strength and reliability of the joint, regardless of the heat resistance of the materials. It is ideal for structural applications where safety and durability are paramount. Another advantage of riveting is its ease of use and the ability to undo connections if necessary. Even conductive connections are possible with special blind rivets.
Put an end to welding
In the world of craftsmanship and construction, joining metal is a basic skill that is used in countless projects. Traditionally, many immediately reach for a welder to create a permanent bond between metal parts. Welding uses heat and filler material to fuse metals together. This method is widely used and provides strong bonds.
However, welding comes with its own challenges and limitations. It requires specialised equipment, expertise and is not always practical in situations where access or ventilation is limited. Sometimes components must also not be exposed to heat or are damaged by exposure to heat.
However, there are alternative methods that make it possible to join metal together effectively without welding. Rivets or blind rivets offer one such solution. They allow craftsmen to join metal parts quickly, efficiently and without the need for heat or special environmental conditions.
Selecting the right rivet type
There are various types of blind rivets, which differ in head shape, shank length, diameter and material. Choosing the right type of rivet is crucial for the strength and durability of the joint.
Factors such as the strength of the materials to be joined, the mechanical requirements and the environmental conditions under which the joint must function should be taken into account when making the selection.
Step-by-step instructions for using blind rivets
The correct installation of blind rivets begins with the preparation of the metal parts. These should be free of grease, dry and free of impurities. Follow these steps to install blind rivets:
- Drill a hole through the parts to be joined. The hole should be approx. 0.1 mm larger than the diameter of the rivet body.
- Insert the rivet into the hole so that the setting head is in contact.
- Use a riveting tool to pull the mandrel of the rivet until the setting head presses firmly against the material and the shank expands to secure the parts.
- Test the joint for strength and correct fit.
Safety instructions for correct riveting
When riveting, it is advisable to wear safety equipment such as safety goggles and ensure that the tool is properly maintained. Make sure you use the correct technique to avoid injury and material damage.
The guide to joining metal easily
Welding is a common method of joining two metals together. However, we will show you how you can produce such a joint with less effort - without compromising on quality.
Contents
- Put an end to welding
- Advantages of blind rivets
- Choosing the right type of rivet
- Step-by-step guide to using blind rivets
- Safety instructions for correct riveting
- Typical areas of application for blind rivets
- Conclusion
- Frequently asked questions
Advantages of blind rivets
Rivets are fastening elements that consist of a rivet mandrel (pin) and a hollow rivet (head). The blind rivets are inserted into the metal parts to be joined through pre-drilled holes and then formed on both sides of the component to create a mechanical connection. Blind rivets are particularly advantageous as they can be installed from only one side of the metal parts. This is particularly useful in situations where access to the workpiece is limited.
Blind rivets offer several advantages over welding and other joining methods. They do not require heat, which reduces the risk of deformation or damage to the material. They are also easy to install, making them ideal for DIY projects, repairs and constructions where time and resources are limited. Blind rivets are also available in a variety of sizes and materials, allowing them to be used in different projects and with different materials.
Typical areas of application for blind rivets
Blind rivets have a wide range of applications, from the automotive or general industry, where they are valued for their light weight and high strength, to the craft or DIY sector, where their simplicity and efficiency are paramount.
They are ideal for fastening sheet metal, assembling frame structures and many other applications where a reliable metal connection without welding is required.
Conclusion
The use of blind rivets as a method of joining metal without welding offers numerous advantages. Not only is it efficient and versatile, it is also accessible to craftsmen of all levels of experience.
Thanks to their ease of use and the ability to achieve strong connections with minimal equipment, blind rivets open up new possibilities for DIY projects, repairs and professional constructions alike.
The technique of riveting requires less specialised knowledge than welding and allows materials to be joined together quickly, securely and permanently. With the right choice of rivet types and basic equipment, craftsmen can create robust joints that meet the requirements of their projects.
Blind riveting demonstrates that strong, durable metal joints do not always have to be the result of complex welding processes. Instead, they can be achieved through the simple but effective process of riveting.
Blind rivets are therefore not only an alternative to welding, but in many cases the first choice for craftsmen looking for a quick, reliable and uncomplicated solution. They encourage people to try out new techniques and push the boundaries of traditional metal joints. With the right tools and a little practice, any craftsman can master the art of riveting and take their projects to the next level.
