When a rotary riveting machine operates normally but cannot complete the riveting process, the cause is usually not a single factor, but rather an abnormality in riveting force, rivet head condition, workpiece suitability, or mechanical transmission. It is recommended to perform inspections in the following order, from simple to complex.
1. Insufficient Riveting Force
Hydraulic system failure: Low hydraulic oil level, worn pump, or clogged valves (due to debris accumulation) directly reduce output pressure. First check the oil level against the scale, inspect pipe joints for leakage, and clean the hydraulic valve block.
Pneumatic system issues: For pneumatically driven machines, damaged air hoses, loose connectors, or insufficient compressor output weaken driving force. Check whether the air pressure gauge reads the required value (typically 0.5–0.8 MPa) and verify circuit integrity.
2. Abnormal Rivet Head Condition
Wear or deformation: After prolonged high‑frequency use, the working end of the rivet head may develop pits or wear, causing pressure dispersion and incomplete forming. Regularly measure the head dimensions with a caliper or profilometer; replace it once the wear exceeds the limit.
Incorrect selection: Mismatched diameter or taper angle between the rivet head and the workpiece contour (e.g., using a flat head for a spherical or countersunk hole) reduces effective force application. For workpieces with special geometries, we can custom‑manufacture dedicated rivet heads based on customer drawings, ensuring uniform pressure transmission to the rivet center and avoiding failures caused by mismatched standard tools.
3. Workpiece Suitability Problems
Excessive material hardness: The rated pressure of the riveting machine may be insufficient if the workpiece or rivet is made of high‑hardness alloy steel (e.g., hardened 45# steel or stainless steel). Consider using a higher‑capacity machine or pre‑annealing the rivets.
Surface contamination or burrs: Oil, scale, or hole‑edge burrs increase resistance during tool descent. Clean the workpiece surface and deburr holes before riveting.
4. Mechanical Transmission and Guide Failure
Transmission component failure: Belt slipping, chain loosening, or gear wear interrupt power transmission. Inspect belt tension and tooth surfaces; adjust or replace as necessary.
Guide or slide blockage: Insufficient lubrication or accumulation of metal chips may cause sticking of the slider. Clean the guide surfaces and apply ISO VG 68 oil to restore smooth movement. If transmission parts are severely worn beyond repair, we can supply precision‑replacement components custom‑machined to drawings, helping restore original equipment performance.
Troubleshooting advice: Follow the sequence "riveting force → rivet head → workpiece → mechanical transmission" step by step, and compare readings against the machine manual's pressure and stroke standards. If the issue persists after all checks, record the symptoms and contact qualified service personnel for in‑depth diagnosis, avoiding disassembly of precision parts without proper guidance.
