Tried and tested: Compact & powerful: Riveting with the cordless screwdriver

Only small rivet diameters can be processed with simple pop rivet pliers from the DIY store, especially as the monel rivets required for use in seawater require significantly more pulling force than simple aluminium versions. Models with lever or scissor action are therefore required. When working with 6.4 millimetre rivets, however, a lot of force is required even with such rather unwieldy professional tools.

For this reason, we tried out the professional rivet adapter from Projahn - it should also be able to handle thick rivets. The tool, which is made entirely of metal, makes a very solid impression. However, according to the instruction leaflet, it is not suitable for steel or stainless steel rivets with a diameter of more than 5 millimetres. As the Monel alloy is not listed in the instructions, we asked Projahn and received approval for testing.

The adapter is simply clamped into the chuck of the cordless screwdriver, then the machine is slowly rotated anti-clockwise until a soft click is heard. This opens the jaws inside the adapter and the rivet can be inserted. The riveting itself is carried out in clockwise rotation and requires hardly any force. For larger rivets, only the enclosed handle needs to be used to counteract the torque of the cordless screwdriver.

Compared to a similarly powerful scissor riveting tool, however, practically no effort is required. This also eliminates the dangerous slipping of the tool at the end of the riveting process if the mandrel breaks. To prepare the adapter for the next rivet, set the machine back to anti-clockwise rotation until you hear the click, then the mandrel remnant falls out.

In our test, aluminium and mono rivets from 4 to 6.4 millimetres in diameter could be processed very easily and quickly, and the lack of kickback and the handy dimensions alone make the blind rivet attachment far superior to scissor rivet pliers. Prices vary considerably, but start at around 50 euros. We award this practical tool five out of five stars.

Further information is available at: www.projahn.de