Rivet Guns
A rivet gun is a tool used to install blind rivets in FRC. It works by pulling a mandrel through the rivet body, expanding it and locking materials together permanently.
Types of Rivet Guns
Hand Rivet Gun
- Manually operated with handles
- Most common in FRC teams
- Good for small to medium build volume
Pneumatic Rivet Gun
- Powered by compressed air
- Much faster and requires less effort
- Used in high-volume assembly during build season
How a Rivet Gun Works
- Insert rivet into the drilled hole
- Place rivet gun nose onto the mandrel
- Squeeze or activate the tool
- The mandrel is pulled, expanding the rivet
- The mandrel snaps off once fully set
Proper Use
- Ensure correct rivet size and grip range before installing
- Keep the gun aligned straight with the rivet
- Apply steady force until the mandrel breaks cleanly
- Make sure the rivet head sits flush against the material
Common Mistakes
- Pulling at an angle (can weaken the joint)
- Not fully setting the rivet
- Using the wrong nose piece for the rivet size
- Reusing partially set rivets
Maintenance
- Empty broken mandrels from the tool regularly
- Keep jaws clean for proper gripping
- Check nose pieces for wear or damage
Key Idea
Rivet guns turn a simple blind rivet into a strong, permanent joint. Proper alignment, correct sizing, and full actuation are essential for reliable FRC construction.