How to Remove a Rivet

This guide explains how to remove a rivet from a metal workpiece using three different methods: drilling, grinding, and hammer-and-chisel removal. Each method is demonstrated on a metal L-bracket secured in a bench vise, and the steps below describe the tools, technique, and inspection points for each approach.

Purpose

This procedure provides step-by-step instructions for removing rivets from metal workpieces using common workshop tools, so that the fastened pieces can be separated and the workpiece prepared for further processing or assembly.

Scope

This SOP covers three rivet removal techniques performed on a metal L-bracket with six rivets:

• Removal with a cordless drill
• Removal with an angle grinder
• Removal with a hammer and chisel (or flathead screwdriver)

Required equipment and PPE

• Metal workpiece with rivets (in this case, a metal L-bracket with six rivets)
• Bench vise to clamp the workpiece securely
• Cordless drill with a drill bit (demonstrated with a DeWalt 18V XR Li-ION drill and 5Ah battery)
• Angle grinder with a grinding disc
• Hammer
• Flathead screwdriver or metal chisel
• Appropriate safety gear (worn throughout all three methods)

Procedure

1

Secure the workpiece

Clamp the metal L-bracket securely in the bench vise before beginning any rivet removal method. Confirm that all six rivets are visible and accessible.

Method 1: Remove a rivet with a drill

4

Drill the rivet head

Position the drill bit on the center of the rivet head and begin drilling to separate the head from the workpiece. Keep the workpiece clamped securely in the vise throughout drilling.

Method 2: Remove a rivet with a grinder

6

Align the grinder with the rivet head

Point to the rivet head to be ground off, then align the grinding disc of the angle grinder with it before starting the grinder.

Method 3: Remove a rivet with a hammer and chisel

9

Position the chisel at the rivet edge

Hold the chisel or flathead screwdriver at the edge of the rivet head you wish to remove. Keep the workpiece clamped securely in the bench vise.

10

Shear off the rivet head

Strike the chisel or screwdriver with the hammer to shear off the rivet head. Keep your hands clear of the striking area during this action.

11

Clear remaining debris from the hole

Use the chisel or screwdriver to clear away any remaining metal fragments from the rivet hole by positioning the tool tip inside the hole to dislodge leftover material.

12

Continue with additional rivets

Repeat the position-strike-clear sequence for each remaining rivet: position the chisel, strike it with the hammer, and clear the debris.

14

Confirm all rivets removed

Verify the finished workpiece: all rivet heads should be removed, leaving clean holes and some tool marks. The L-bracket should remain clamped in the vise, with the workspace clear of loose tools.

15

Finish the process

Confirm that all rivets have been successfully removed using the hammer and chisel method. The workpiece is now ready for further processing or assembly.

Verification and summary

You have now reviewed three effective methods for how to remove a rivet: drilling, grinding, and using a hammer and chisel. For each method, confirm the following before moving on:

• The workpiece remains securely clamped in the vise throughout the process.
• All rivet heads are fully removed and the holes are free of debris.
• Appropriate safety gear is worn at all times, and hands are kept clear of the striking area when using the hammer and chisel.

Once all rivets have been removed and the workpiece has been inspected, it is ready for further processing or assembly.