Expanding rivets, also known as expanding mandrel rivets or bulbing rivets, are a type of fastener commonly used in various industries for joining materials together. These rivets feature a mandrel that expands the rivet body upon installation, creating a secure and tight joint between the materials being fastened. Expanding rivets are ideal for applications where access to the backside of the workpiece is limited or impossible, as they can be installed from one side. They are widely used in automotive, aerospace, construction, and manufacturing industries for their reliability and ease of installation.
In the automotive industry, expanding rivets are frequently used for joining sheet metal, plastic, and other materials in vehicle assembly. These rivets provide a strong and durable connection, making them suitable for applications such as body panels, trim pieces, and interior components. The expanding mandrel inside the rivet body deforms and expands the rivet body as it is pulled, creating a bulge on the blind side of the workpiece. This bulge ensures a secure grip and prevents the rivet from pulling out or loosening under load, making expanding rivets a popular choice for automotive manufacturing and repair.
