If you regularly use rivets, you should consider investing in a set of rivet caps. Rivets have become a popular alternative to threaded fasteners. Rivets are permanent fasteners. They can withstand external forces like vibrations without loosening.
What Are Rivet Caps?
Rivet caps are protective covers that fit over the head of a rivet. While available in different styles, all rivets have a head. It’s the pre-formed section opposite of the tail. The head may be flat, round, truss or pan shaped. Rather than leaving the head exposed, you can finish it with a rivet cap.
Common materials in which rivet heads are made include:
- Stainless steel
- Aluminum
- Brass
How Rivet Caps Work
Rivet caps work by creating a protective, as well as decorative, barrier over the head of a rivet. They are simple and easy to use.
After installing a rivet, align the cap directly over the rivet’s head and push. Assuming it’s the right size and shape, the rivet cap should snap into place. Some rivet caps require the use of a tool, such as a rivet setter, but others can be installed using a hammer or mallet.
Tubular vs Split Rivet Caps
Some rivet caps are designed for tubular rivets, whereas others are designed for split rivets. Tubular rivets have a narrow and hollow shank or “tube.” When set, the shank flares out to create a permanent joint.
Split rivets, on the other hand, are characterized by a split shank. The shank isn’t a single piece. Rather, it branches out into two pieces — similar to a two-pronged fork. When set, the two prong-like extensions will wrap around the back of the object to create a permanent joint.
Benefits of Rivet Caps
Why should you use rivet caps exactly? They offer several benefits, one of which is protection from environmental contaminants. Rivets are commonly used in automotive, aerospace and various industrial applications where they are regularly exposed to moisture and chemicals. Rivet caps shield the underlying rivets with which they are used from environmental contaminants such as these.
Rivet caps also create a cleaner and more polished appearance for rivets. Plain rivets can look somewhat messy. With rivet caps, you can add a decorative touch to rivets that brings the entire section or product together. The caps will create a smoother and more uniform surface that enhances the rivets’ aesthetics.