Open-End vs Sealed Blind Rivets
Open-end and sealed blind rivets both create permanent joints using access from one side of the assembly. The main difference is the rivet body's design and its ability to limit leakage through the fastener.
Choose the type that suits your sealing requirements, then check the material, grip range and strength against the complete joint.
What Are Open-End Rivets?
Open-end rivets have a body that is open at the blind end before installation. They are widely used for general-purpose fastening where the rivet itself does not need to provide a sealed barrier.
The mandrel breaks during setting, leaving a portion within the installed rivet according to its design. An open-end rivet should not be assumed to seal against water or other fluids.
When to Consider Them
Open-end rivets can be a practical, economical option for sheet metal fabrication, furniture, equipment assembly and general manufacturing where leakage through the fastening point is not a concern. Available materials, sizes and head styles vary by product range.
What Are Sealed Rivets?
Sealed rivets, also called closed-end rivets, have a closed blind end that helps prevent fluids passing through the rivet body. They are useful where fastening points form part of a barrier against moisture or contaminants.
When to Consider Them
Closed-end designs may be appropriate for vehicle panels, outdoor cabinets, electrical enclosures, refrigeration equipment and other assemblies where leakage control matters. Suitability depends on the rivet's specification, material and service conditions.
A Sealed Rivet Does Not Automatically Mean a Sealed Joint
Closing the rivet body addresses one potential leak path. Fluid can still pass between the rivet head and panel, around the hole or through gaps elsewhere in the assembly.
Depending on the application, additional sealant, a pre-applied seal or another sealing method may be required. Check any published sealing limits and test the finished assembly under its expected operating conditions. Do not assume a closed-end rivet alone provides a particular enclosure protection rating.
How to Choose
- Sealing: Is leakage through the fastening point acceptable, or must it be controlled?
- Materials: Are the rivet body and mandrel compatible with the panels and environment?
- Grip range: Does the specified range include the combined material thickness?
- Strength: Do the published ratings support the joint's requirements?
- Installation: Are the hole dimensions, tool and nosepiece suitable for the rivet?
- Exposure: Check moisture, temperature and chemical compatibility where relevant.
Which Type Is Right for Your Application?
Choose an open-end rivet when you need general-purpose fastening without a sealing requirement at the rivet. Consider a sealed rivet when you need to control leakage through the fastener body, while also addressing the surrounding joint.
Neither design is automatically stronger or more corrosion-resistant. Compare the technical data for the individual products rather than relying on the open-end or sealed label alone.
Need Help Selecting a Rivet?
Contact Rivetnut Technology Systems with your panel materials, combined thickness, load requirements and sealing conditions. These details help identify a suitable rivet and installation approach for your assembly.