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Rivet tools come in different configurations with different power profiles. While toolmakers have been focusing on developing a new generation of lighter, portable tools, structural blind rivet tools remain in high demand. There are no better tools for critical product assembly, maintenance, metalwork, truck and transit work, and setting industrial rivets.
Engineers and installers agree that you need the right industrial rivet tools to create a strong structural joint. When choosing the correct tool, consider the power-to-weight ratio, traction power rating, operating air pressure requirements, stroke length, ease of use, and flexibility to use different nose assemblies to accommodate specialty structural rivets.
Tool clearance is also a vital consideration. You must check the distances from the rivet centerline to nearby walls or projections to ensure the tool will fit where needed. In some cases, a nosepiece extension can resolve the issue if you have limited space. Another strategy is to use the tool flush with the workpiece and set the rivet from the unobstructed side.
The expert technicians at Bay Supply have advised customers on these and other issues for years. We can also suggest various ways to balance tools and accommodate pintail removal.
Here are some details about the consistently top choices in high-powered rivet tooling:
Huck 2024
The Huck 2024 is ideal for installing blind fasteners with a diameter of ¼ inch or less. The 2024 is an established workhorse with an ergonomically designed handle, plated piston rods, and an in-line piston for greater efficiency. It uses 90 psi air pressure, with a pull capacity of 3,993 pounds and a 0.850-inch stroke, making it ideal for one-pull placement of structural rivets, such as Monobolt, Magna-Lok, and HuckLok. Huck also offers an extended piston version (2024L) and an optional vacuum-assisted pin collection system (2024V).
Huck 2022
Huck also offers the 2022 long-stroke pneumatic hydraulic riveter. It’s a lightweight, high-speed rivet tool suitable for both production and repair applications. The 2022 is also designed to handle rivets ¼ inch or smaller and features an in-line, long-stroke piston that can set up to 30 rivets per minute. It also has an ergonomic handle that weighs only 5.4 pounds, with a pull capacity of 3,477 pounds. A universal nose assembly that can accommodate standard and structural 3/16- and ¼-inch rivets is available separately.
Cherry GH743
The Cherry GH743 pneumatic power rivet tool is a heavy-duty riveter designed explicitly for use in truck and transit applications. The riveter is made in America and features a high power-to-weight ratio, complemented by a superb ergonomic design, including an air trigger button that reduces operator fatigue. It features a long stroke for single-pull operation, even for long-length rivets, and is compatible with the Avdel Cherry Q Rivet, Monobolt, Avdelmate, and other structural and multi-grip-style rivets.
FAR RAC171
The RAC 171 hydropneumatic riveter from FAR is one of the best large-diameter riveters on the market. The tool requires 85-90 pounds of air pressure, has a 1-inch stroke, and delivers 4,000 pounds of clamping force, making it suitable for the most demanding architectural blind rivets. The tool is designed to create a vacuum that holds the rivet in place, allowing the operator to have a free hand during installation.
The riveter also automatically collects the spent mandrel for easy disposal, resulting in a cleaner work environment. It can set aluminum, stainless steel, and steel rivets from 3/16 inch to ¼ inch, as well as structural rivets, such as the Farbolt, Monobolt, and Magna-Lok.
POP PB3400 Cordless
Cordless rivet tools have been gaining popularity as battery technology continues to improve, delivering more power and shorter recharge times. The POP PB3400 is a cordless powerhouse featuring a 20V DeWalt Li-ion battery for use with 3/16- to ¼-inch blind rivets. This riveter has a pull force of 4,047 pounds, a 1.180-inch strike, and it weighs only 5.3 pounds.
These are just some of the high-powered rivet tools used for structural blind rivet installations. Bay Supply has a complete catalog of rivet tools with different specifications for any application, and the experts at Bay Supply are always available to help you find the right tool for any job. Visit the Bay Supply Marketplace to see which blind rivet tools are available, and feel free to request a quote.
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