Product Review: Stainless Steel Blind Rivets

Blind rivets might be small, but when it comes to joining sheet metal, ducts, or panels, reliability matters. That’s why we stock these Stainless Steel Blind Rivets in a range of sizes. They’re easy to install, grip securely, and hold up under tough conditions, which makes them a great fit for both workshop use and on-site installations.

We often recommend these to customers working in HVAC, sheet metal fabrication, and general construction, especially when there’s only access to one side of the materials being joined.
Works well if you’re fastening ducting flanges, fixing brackets, or assembling lightweight frames. These rivets offer a strong, corrosion-resistant join that doesn’t loosen over time.

Available sizes (all supplied in packs of 500):

• 3.0 × 6 mm
• 3.0 × 12 mm
• 3.2 × 8 mm
• 3.2 × 16 mm

These sizes cover most of the common requirements in ducting and light metalwork. If you’re unsure which one to use, we can help match the right length and grip range to your project.

Why these rivets get re-ordered again and again

Here’s what makes them so useful in everyday jobs:

• Made from stainless steel – Resistant to rust, ideal for use in damp or outdoor environments
• Blind design – Can be installed from one side only (perfect for tight spaces or ducts)
• Consistent clamping force – Creates a strong and stable joint that won’t vibrate loose
• Neat finish – Leaves a clean, professional result with minimal tool marks
• Fast to install – Works with standard rivet guns, manual or pneumatic

We’ve seen them used in everything from ducting systems and extraction hoods to vehicle panels and even lightweight frameworks in building maintenance.

A few pointers before you start

Blind rivets are simple, but choosing the right length and diameter is key to a solid hold. The rivet needs to be long enough to pass through both materials with enough length left to form the bulb (or mushroomed back) during installation.
If you’re working with softer materials like aluminium or plastic, you might want to go for a wider head or a different grip range, we’re happy to advise if needed.
Also, make sure your rivet gun is rated for stainless steel, as it requires a bit more force than aluminium.

Written by Enya Kerry – Office Manager at Ducting Express

With over four years of experience and W201 and P601 certifications, I help customers daily with practical advice on fixing, mounting, and joining components across all sorts of ducting and fabrication work. Not sure what size rivet you need? Drop us a message and we’ll point you in the right direction.