Riveting machine
A riveting machine is used to automatically set rivets in order to join materials together. The riveting machine offers greater consistency, productivity, and lower cost when compared to manual riveting.
Types
Automatic feed riveting machines include a hopper and feed track which automatically delivers and presents the rivet to the setting tools which overcomes the need for the operator to position the rivet. The downward force required to deform the rivet with an automatic riveting machine is created by a motor and flywheel combination, pneumatic cylinder, or hydraulic cylinder. Manual feed riveting machines usually have a mechanical lever to deliver the setting force from a foot pedal or hand lever.Riveting machines can be subdivided into two broad groups — impact riveting machines and orbital riveting machines.
Impact riveting
Impact riveting machines set the rivet by driving the rivet downwards, through the materials to be joined and on into a forming tool. This action causes the end of the rivet to roll over in the rollset which causes the end of the rivet to flare out and thus join the materials together. Impact riveting machines are very fast and a cycle time of 0.5 seconds is typical.Orbital riveting
Orbital riveting machines have a spinning forming tool which is gradually lowered into the rivet which spreads the material of the rivet into a desired shape depending upon the design of the tool. Orbital forming machines offer the user more control over the riveting cycle but the trade off is in cycle time which can be 2 or 3 seconds.There are different types of riveting machines. Each type of machine has unique features and benefits. The orbital riveting process is different from impact riveting and spiralform riveting. Orbital riveting requires less downward force than impact or spiral riveting. Also, orbital riveting tooling typically lasts longer.
The orbital riveting process uses a forming tool mounted at a 3 or 6° angle. The forming tool contacts the material and then presses it while rotating until the final form is achieved. The final form often has height and/or diameter specifications.
Pneumatic orbital riveting machines typically provide downward force in the range. Hydraulic orbital riveting machines typically provide downward force in the range.
Radial (Spiralform) riveting
Radial riveting is subtly different from orbital forming. In most cases however, where high-quality joints are demanded, the radial riveting technology is the appropriate procedure due to the low cycle time, the little force needed and the high quality results obtained.The riveting peen describes a rose-petal path. The rivet is deformed in three directions. Radially outwards, radially inwards, and overlying also tangentially.
Excellent surface structure of the closing head: with the radial riveting process, the tool itself does not rotate. The friction between tool and workpiece is thus at a minimum. The result is an excellent surface structure.
Low workpiece loading: Even bakelite or ceramic parts can be riveted. Lateral forces are negligible. Clamping is usually unnecessary.