How to Rivet Sheet Metal

Sheet metal riveting tool

A rivet is an easy, economical and permanent way to bind two or more sheets of metal together. The original rivet head is called the factory head, and the secondary head made after "popping" the rivet is called the shop head or the buck-tail. Keep in mind that pop rivets are not a permanent solution, but they will keep the metal in place long enough to add a permanent solution.

Things You'll Need

• Sheet metal Rivets Riveting tool Drill Metal drill bit

Instructions

1. 

   Choose the appropriate rivet size and capacity for the project--for example, 1/8-inch diameter and 1/2-inch capacity.

2. Drill a 1/8-inch hole through one or more sheets of metal that need to be riveted (up to 1/2 inch thick).

3. Insert a rivet into the hole. Place the rivet stem into the riveting tool. Pump the tool handle until the rivet "pops."

4. Remove the rivet stem from the rivet and the riveting tool.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish