FAB-LOK® Panel Rivets: The Ultimate Solution for Light Duty Blind Metal Panel Installation

In industries where strength, reliability, and streamlined installation matter most; such as HVAC, metal buildings, and trailer manufacturing. The FAB-LOK^® Panel Rivet has earned a reputation as the go-to choice for blind metal fastening. Combining the strength of a rivet with the benefits of an expansive, vibration-resistant installation, FAB-LOK^® Panel Rivets offer a powerful and lasting solution.

What Are FAB-LOK^® Panel Rivets?

FAB-LOK^® Panel Rivets are a type of blind panel rivet engineered to securely join metal panels or metal-to-wood substrates, particularly where only one side of the material is accessible. The fastener consists of two primary components:

• A slotted aluminum sleeve (or body)
• A carbon or stainless steel drive screw

When installed, the steel screw expands the slotted aluminum sleeve, forming a solid mechanical connection that resists pull-out and vibration.

Key Features and Benefits

• Blind Installation Capability: Perfect for joining components where only one side is accessible.
• Exceptional Shear and Tensile Strength: The mechanical expansion provides strong load-bearing performance in high-vibration environments.
• Vibration and Corrosion Resistance: The combination of aluminum and steel construction ensures long-term reliability even in harsh conditions.
• Wide Grip Range: FAB-LOK^® fasteners accommodate a variety of material thicknesses, reducing the need for multiple fastener sizes on job sites.
• Quick, Clean Installation: With the proper drive tool, these fasteners install rapidly without the need for back-up access or complex procedures.

Common Applications

FAB-LOK^® Panel Rivets are widely used in:

• Steel structural connections on buildings exposed to intense internal vibrations from machinery or significant external forces like high winds, jet engine blasts, and seismic activity
• Fastening steel structural elements in buildings subject to frequent expansion and contraction due to temperature fluctuations
• Repairing loose or separated steel panels where structural integrity needs to be restored
• Blind fastening in insulated or inaccessible areas, such as cold storage panels or enclosed cavities
• Metal roofing systems, including applications with MBCI Metal Roof and Wall Systems
• Sheet metal fastening tasks, such as securing low-voltage wiring to ductwork or attaching signage to metal building exteriors
• Solar panel installations, particularly where durable, vibration-resistant fastening to metal structures is critical

Their popularity in these areas is driven by their ability to offer tamper resistance, excellent grip in thin or layered materials, and superior long-term holding power.

Installation Made Easy

Installation requires only a standard Adjustable Torque Screwgun and the FAB-LOK® Drive Tool. As the screw is driven into the slotted rivet body, it pulls the rivet tight and expands the body against the backside of the panel, creating a secure and tamper-resistant bond. Many installers appreciate that this process avoids the need for heavy-duty rivet tools or welding.

Why Choose Fab-Lok from Tanner Bolt?

At Tanner, we stock a wide range of FAB-LOK^® Panel Rivets with various grip ranges, diameters, and head styles. With fast shipping, competitive pricing, and expert support, we ensure contractors and OEMs get the fastening solutions they need—when they need them.