Rivet Guns
Without the rivet gun (or 'nut riveter'), most engineering and production tasks would take an extraordinarily long time. These handy power tools are used wherever there's rivets to be fastened or unfastened - so in other words, just about everywhere.
Cromwell stocks an extensive range of high-quality rivet guns, from trusted brands used by professionals around the globe.
What are rivet guns?
The rivet gun is a handheld power tool, powered by a battery pack or a robust air compressor depending on the model. Rivet guns come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they most commonly look like an electric screwdriver with a smaller head. Other rivet guns look similar to a wrench or clamp, but with a rivetter attachment on the end.
Why a rivet gun?
Rivets are extremely common throughout production, assembly, manufacturing, and engineering jobs as a potent alternative to welding. Large assembly or engineering projects use thousands upon thousands of rivets, making rivet guns a must-have in these situations.
Since rivet guns have become more and more affordable in recent years, their popularity has skyrocketed amongst DIYers and hobbyists who work with rivets. By using a rivet gun to take the hassle out of riveting, professionals and hobbyists alike have more time to focus on the project at large.
When are rivet guns used?
• Riveting - They are most effective when riveting. They can be used on aluminium, stainless steel, and plastic rivets.
• Metalworking / Sheeting - Another important riveting application, rivet guns are used to join large metal sheets.
• Automotive - For those who work in garages, rivets are used for all kind of automotive applications - making rivet guns a must-have.
If you're looking for the perfect tool for your job, feel free to ask our experts for specialised advice.
Types of rivet gun
When choosing a rivet gun, you'll be faced with two main options - electric or pneumatic. Each power source comes with its own benefits:
Electric rivet guns - Electric rivet guns offer excellent portability and pick-up-and-go functionality. They're more than suitable for most general applications, or for light workshop usage. Keep in mind that large battery packs do add extra weight and bulk to your rivet gun.
Pneumatic rivet guns - Pneumatic rivet guns are powered by a robust air compressor that's separate to the rivet gun. As a result, pneumatic rivet guns are small and lightweight, but extremely powerful and tethered to the compressor.
Cromwell stocks a wide range of rivet guns, suitable for all kinds of applications. If you need help picking the best one for you, talk to our experts for personalised advice.
Considerations when choosing a rivet gun
• Air Compressor - Ensure the air compressor you buy is powerful enough to keep a pneumatic rivet gun running effectively.
When it comes to air compressors, it's better to have too much than too little. Larger air tanks keep your rivet gun performing effortlessly over longer periods of time.
• Weight - The weight of your rivet gun directly impacts the manoeuvrability, noise, and accuracy when in use. Heavier rivet guns can cause fatigue when used for long periods of time.
• Length - There's somewhat of a balancing act to be had with the length of a rivet gun. On one hand, professionals value rivet guns with long handles as this enables them to work in hard-to-reach places. On the other hand, too long a handle results in a clumsy experience and can make the rivet gun heavier.
FAQs
Can you use a rivet gun for rivnuts?
Yes, however depending on the type of rivet gun you have, you may need an insert.
Where rivet gun is used?
To use a rivet gun, place the head of the gun on the rivet head. The energy from the gun then drives in (or out) the rivet automatically.
Why does my rivet gun keep jamming?
Rivet guns can jam when metal shavings accumulate in the tip of the tool. These shavings become impacted and can prevent the rivet gun from working effectively. To avoid this, ensure your rivet gun is properly cleaned and maintained after every long session.
