Knowledge Base

Critical Factors for Proper Rivet Installation

To prevent panel damage during rivet installation and allow for thermal expansion in material assemblies, a standoff nose piece can be used to prevent the rivet head from bearing against the panel surface. The standoff nose piece will create a uniform space between the rivet head and the panel surface.

Below is a description of what a standoff nose piece is, how a standoff nose piece works, and how to verify a properly set rivet.

Standoff Nose Piece Description

The standoff nose piece, also known as Rivet Setting Nose Piece, is an attachment that is used during rivet installation to provide a controlled gap between the rivet head and the panel face. This gap will prevent the rivet head from being in direct contact with the panel face. A gap is intentionally created to accommodate thermal expansion.

Importance of Stand Off Rivet Installation

Benefits of installing a rivet with a standoff nose piece:

• Thermal movement of the panel in relation to the substrate will not transfer stress to the rivet.
• Panel deformation and/or surface damage will be prevented.
• The likelihood of cracking, distortion, and fatigue over time will be reduced.
• A consistent and repeatable method of installing a rivet will be ensured.

A potential problem with a rivet that doesn’t have a standoff nose piece is that the rivet may apply too much pressure to the panel face, potentially causing cosmetic or structural damage.

Recommended Standoff Distance

The recommended standoff distance for a rivet is 0.3 mm (0.012 inch) away from the panel surface.

The standoff distance will:

• Provide room for thermal movement.
• Prevent excessive pressure on the panel.
• Maintain the fasteners' performance and appearance throughout its lifetime.
  

How To Inspect the Standoff After Rivet Installation

Verify that the correct standoff was achieved after the rivet installation:

1. Measure the space between the rivet head and the panel using a 0.3 mm (0.012 inch) feeler gauge
2. Insert the feeler gauge into the space between the rivet head and the panel face
3. If the feeler gauge fits without requiring significant force, then the correct standoff has been achieved
4. Inspecting the standoff is a simple procedure to ensure that the rivet installation meets the design specifications and verifies that there is no excessive load on the panel.
   

Additional Best Practices for Installing Rivets with Standoff Nose Pieces

• Always install a standoff nose piece when installing rainscreen façade panels
• Check the standoff dimensions during quality inspections
• Avoid over-clamping rivets directly against panel surfaces
• Include feeler gauges as part of your regular inspection procedures
  

Summary

Installing a rivet with a standoff nose piece is a minor yet critical step in protecting panels from damage due to rivet installation and allowing for thermal movement in materials. Maintaining a 0.3 mm (0.012 inch) gap between the rivet head and the panel will help protect materials, increase longevity, and maintain consistent installation quality.