Description

Semi-Tubular Rivet Sizes, Dimensions & Specifications

The tables below list standard oval head and truss head semi-tubular rivet sizes, including part numbers, rivet diameters, lengths, materials and finishes. Select a stocked size for your RFQ or send us your required diameter, length and head style. Custom sizes, materials and finishes are also available for OEM production.

What Is a Semi-Tubular Rivet?

A semi-tubular rivet is a permanent mechanical fastener with a manufactured hole in the tail end of its shank. During installation, the tubular end is rolled, flared or expanded to form a second retaining head.

Because only the hollow portion of the rivet needs to be formed, semi-tubular rivets generally require less installation force than comparable solid rivets. This can help improve production speed and reduce stress on the assembled components.

Semi-tubular rivets are also known as:

• Hollow-end rivets
• Tubular-end rivets
• Semi-hollow rivets
• Oval head semi-tubular rivets
• Truss head semi-tubular rivets

They are commonly selected for high-volume assemblies requiring a durable permanent connection, controlled clinching and efficient automated or press installation.

Oval Head vs. Truss Head Semi-Tubular Rivets

Oval head semi-tubular rivets have a rounded, finished head profile. They are commonly used when appearance, compact head size and a smooth exposed surface are important.

Truss head semi-tubular rivets have a wider, lower-profile head that distributes the clamping load over a larger surface area. They are often selected for softer materials, larger mounting holes or applications requiring greater bearing coverage.

When selecting a head style, consider:

• Required head diameter
• Available installation space
• Appearance of the finished assembly
• Material hardness
• Surface-load distribution
• Required joint movement
• Installation tooling

Materials & Finishes

Semi-tubular rivets are available in several materials to meet different strength, weight, corrosion-resistance and appearance requirements.

Steel semi-tubular rivets provide strength and economical performance for general industrial assemblies. Zinc plating may be added for improved corrosion protection.

Stainless steel semi-tubular rivets provide greater corrosion resistance and are suitable for appliances, equipment, outdoor assemblies and applications exposed to moisture. Stocked products include stainless steel 304, with other stainless grades available depending on requirements.

Aluminum semi-tubular rivets are lightweight, corrosion resistant and require relatively low installation force. They are commonly used with lightweight components and softer assembly materials.

Brass and copper semi-tubular rivets may be produced for applications requiring electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance or a decorative appearance.

Material and finish availability varies by rivet diameter, length, head style and production quantity.

How to Select a Semi-Tubular Rivet

For accurate product selection, specify the following information:

• Head style
• Rivet diameter
• Rivet length
• Material
• Finish
• Total material thickness
• Assembly-hole diameter
• Required clinch allowance
• Strength or joint-movement requirements
• Estimated production quantity

The rivet length must provide enough material beyond the assembly to form the required clinched head. The correct allowance depends on the rivet diameter, hole depth, assembly thickness and installation method.

If an existing part number is unavailable, send us a drawing, sample or dimensional requirements for review.

Semi-Tubular Rivet Installation

Semi-tubular rivets are commonly installed using a rivet press, orbital riveting machine, impact riveter or other production riveting equipment.

During installation, the factory-formed head is supported while a properly shaped setting tool expands or rolls the hollow tail. The formed tail creates a permanent mechanical joint without requiring threads, welding or separate nuts.

For consistent installation:

• Use the recommended assembly-hole diameter.
• Support the manufactured head with the correct anvil.
• Select tooling that matches the required clinch profile.
• Keep the rivet and tooling properly aligned.
• Apply controlled installation force.
• Confirm the required rivet length and clinch allowance.
• Test the installation before beginning production.

Installation force and tooling requirements vary according to rivet diameter, material, hole depth and the materials being assembled.

Semi-Tubular Rivets vs. Solid Rivets

Semi-tubular and solid rivets both create permanent mechanical joints, but their installation and performance characteristics differ.

Semi-tubular rivets have a hollow section at the tail and generally require less force to install. They are frequently used in high-volume production, hinges, pivots and assemblies containing softer or more delicate components.

Solid rivets have a completely solid shank and generally require greater setting force. They are often selected for rigid joints and applications requiring higher shear or structural strength.

The best option depends on the required joint strength, installation equipment, material thickness and whether the assembled parts must remain fixed or move around the rivet.

Typical Semi-Tubular Rivet Applications

Semi-tubular rivets are used in high-volume commercial and industrial assemblies, including:

• Hinges and pivot joints
• Appliances
• Automotive components
• Electrical equipment
• Brackets and linkages
• Furniture hardware
• Casters and wheels
• Ladders and folding mechanisms
• Hand tools
• Lighting products
• Toys and recreational equipment
• Metal and plastic assemblies
• General OEM manufacturing

Their lower setting-force requirement makes them especially useful when joining thinner, lighter or more easily damaged components.

Advantages of Semi-Tubular Rivets

Semi-tubular rivets offer several production and assembly benefits:

• Lower installation force than comparable solid rivets
• Fast installation for production assemblies
• Strong, permanent mechanical fastening
• Suitable for automated installation
• No threads or loose nuts required
• Available in multiple head styles
• Can be used for fixed or pivoting joints
• Available in several materials and finishes
• Custom dimensions can be produced for OEM applications

Factory-Direct Semi-Tubular Rivets & Custom Options

Imperial Rivets & Fasteners supplies factory-direct oval head and truss head semi-tubular rivets for industrial distributors, manufacturers and OEM production.

Stocked inch sizes are available in steel, stainless steel and aluminum. Custom manufacturing options may include:

• Custom rivet diameters
• Custom rivet lengths
• Special head diameters and profiles
• Modified hole diameters and depths
• Steel, stainless steel, aluminum, brass or copper
• Zinc, nickel and application-specific finishes
• Parts manufactured to drawings or samples
• Production-volume packaging

Select an available part number from the specification table and add it to your RFQ. For a size, material or head configuration that is not listed, send our sales team your drawing, sample or dimensional requirements.

Questions or Custom Requirements?

Contact our sales team at sales@imperialrivet.com or (630) 964-0208.