How Are Rivets Measured?

You are not alone if you are wondering how to measure a rivet. A popular question asked by many knowing how rivets are measured depends on understanding rivets' common code descriptions and grip range.

In this article, we will help you figure out how to measure a rivet, including how to measure a rivet's size and length, plus some of the different types of rivets.

Different Types of Rivets

A rivet is a mechanical fastener or connector. Rivets are used for fastening objects in place and will come in many different shapes, sizes, materials, and finishes, as needed. There are many rivets, ranging from blind rivets, solid rivets, tubular rivets, drive rivets, split rivets, shoulder rivets, and more. Each rivet is different and made to benefit its unique fastening projects and applications, including light and heavy-duty applications, supporting shear and tensile loads, and watertight applications.

A few of the most common rivets include solid, blind, tubular, and metal piercing (including split rivets). Blind rivets, also known as pop rivets, can be installed entirely from one side and don’t need access to both sides of the material. Solid rivets have solid shafts with a head on one end and are used in applications requiring safety and dependability. In comparison, semi-tubular rivets have a shallow hole in the tip of the shaft.

How to Measure a Rivet

When measuring a rivet, it's essential to understand and break down its code description, which includes various letters and numbers used to specify rivet material type, head type, diameter, length, and industry specifications. For example, breaking down the rivet code description ABL6-8A:

• The first letter indicates the rivet material. In this case, the “A” stands for aluminum. Other common material codes will include “S” for steel, “C” for copper, and “SS” for stainless steel.
• The second letter describes the head style. This rivet has a “B” for button head. Some other head stylers include “C” for countersunk.
• The third letter is also the style type. In this case, it’ll be an “L” for a large flange head.
• The first numbers show the rivet’s diameter indicated in 32nds of an inch, like 4=4/32" or 1/8", 12=12/32" etc.
• The second number describes how to measure the rivet’s length indicated in 16ths of an inch, like 8=8/16" or 1/2", 10=1, etc.

Browse Our Rivets

ASMC Industrial offers a full range of rivets, from Blind Rivets, Clearance, Rivet Nuts, and Semi Tubular Rivets. Find the correct rivet you need based on your project, and rest assured that you’re getting the highest quality product at the best price. Find the rivet you need based on material, metric, size, grade, thread pitch, and more. Discover our expansive selection of rivets to accurately and effectively get the job on time, saving you time and money.