Recommendation on Rivets (Probably blind) ?

Thanks Machineman. The jig idea is a definate.

Can you tell me much about the different properties of rivets. EG, why would I use an all aluminum vs all steel vs alum/steel? Differences in nail, monobolt, interloc, etc.

Thanks,

Folk...

I tried to email you but it didn't go. I am a shop teacher and I can help. Email me. Ron

Have a look at the rivet selection guide on

The economical tool that saves your fingers is a "lazy tom" see they call it a concertina rivetter.

Glenn

We use ATA cases everyday and I'm surprised that you can't get a case built for about what your materials and labor would be. Sure you can save money from Anvil / Star / R&R and Calzone (Owned by Anvil) but there are literally dozens of companies than make cases. Look at Georgia Case, Indy Case etc. The labor involved for doing one offs is more than enough of a headache to have someone make it for you. If you do go the route of making them yourself use at least 1/2" plywood not 3/8". The first time a fat roadie stands on your 3/8" case you'll understand why (or simply stacking heavy cases).

If you do decide to make these cases here are a few tips.

1) Use the best hardware you can find. IE stay away from overlatches or any latch that does not have a recessed dish for the locking hardware to ride in. If you have surface mount latches the latch will be torn off after a few gigs.. 2) 1/2" or thicker plywood and 13ply would be the better material to use. (I know it costs) You can even buy the plywood and laminate (fiberglass is better) premade thus saving you time and effort. 3) heavy duty through rivets with backing washers. You are going to use dense closed cell foam to line the case right? As long as you use DENSE foam (Ester 2000Lb Foam) the through style pop rivets will be fine but make sure you use a backing washer. And for your own sake use a pneumatic riveter. Even one case can have over 100 rivets so it is worth the money. 4) Get the heavy duty casters with roller bearings, steel hubs and poly surfaces. DO NOT but home depot casters or you'll end up replacing them after just a short time. Use the blue or red style polyurethane wheels as they don't tend to mark the carpets up. 5) If it is a multi use case and just carpet lined for cables and such use blind (or closed end) rivet. Smaller area to deal with on the back side. Use good Ozite style carpet and pay careful attention to your glue coverage.

There is a company that has all the components you need

and we buy components all the time from them.

Good luck on your project.

Pedroman

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I just *had* to look at that one. I work on English construction concertinas, and most do *not* use riveted reeds.

I now see why it has that name, at least. :-)

Enjoy, DoN.