Large rivet removal
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,324
Likes: 1
From: Ball Ground Georgia
Large rivet removal
There are several large flat headed rivets holding The cross roof bonding strip on. what is the best way to remove these rivets? they appear to be driven rivets as opposed to pop rivets.
Thread Starter
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 1,324
Likes: 1
From: Ball Ground Georgia
These are large and flat flush on the tops, grinding will get into the panel. I guess I can go to the underside and cut the mushroom off with a cutoff wheel. Tight fit and don't want to get into the birdcage metal with the wheel. Maybe an air chisel?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 999
Likes: 97
From: Captain Cook Hawaii
I have removed many rivets in my aircraft life. First know the diameter of the rivet. Second is to know the drill size. Third is to know the ream size. Fourth is to deburr and remove chips.
Example: A 3/16 rivet is drilled out using a 3/16 drill on the HEAD. You drill only enough to break the head from the shank. Close is ok because you can then use a chisel to lightly tap the head off. Once the head is removed a 3/16 punch is used with backing to drive the rivet out. [removing the head releases the purchase/clamping force] The hole is then reamed with a #10 drill. If you are going to do a lot of riveting let me know, I have an E3 RIVET GUN that I will loan you. There is a huge difference between a rivet gun and an air hammer. One more thing about the chisel for tapping the rivet head; take the chisel and slowly work one side of the taper on a grinder. Create a ramp at least 2 inches long. Hope this helps.
Brgds,
Rene
Example: A 3/16 rivet is drilled out using a 3/16 drill on the HEAD. You drill only enough to break the head from the shank. Close is ok because you can then use a chisel to lightly tap the head off. Once the head is removed a 3/16 punch is used with backing to drive the rivet out. [removing the head releases the purchase/clamping force] The hole is then reamed with a #10 drill. If you are going to do a lot of riveting let me know, I have an E3 RIVET GUN that I will loan you. There is a huge difference between a rivet gun and an air hammer. One more thing about the chisel for tapping the rivet head; take the chisel and slowly work one side of the taper on a grinder. Create a ramp at least 2 inches long. Hope this helps.
Brgds,
Rene
