What is a rivet nose piece?
- Read time: 4 minutes
- Date: 04 Mar 2026
- Rainscreen & Façades
Which nose piece should I use?
Gesipa cordless riveters (such as Gesipa Accubird & Powerbird) are supplied with standard nose pieces and can accept others depending on rivet size and material.
Use the table below for standard blind rivets:
| Rivet diameter | Rivet material | Nose piece to use |
|---|---|---|
| 3.2mm | Aluminium/Stainless Steel | 17/20 or 17/22 |
| 4.0mm | Aluminium/Stainless Steel | 17/24 or 17/27 |
| 4.8–5.0mm | Aluminium | 17/29 |
| 4.8–5.0mm | Stainless Steel | 17/32 |
Tip: The number stamped on the nose piece (for example 17/24) is the key identifier – always match this to your rivet size.
Special rivet types
5.2mm Tri-Grip rivets – use 17/36BT nose pieces
7.7mm Tri-Grip rivets – use 17/48BT nose pieces
Always check the rivet type before selecting the nose piece. Special rivets may need specific nose pieces.
What is a stand-off nose piece and where is it used?
Some façade panel manufacturers require rivets to be installed using a stand‑off nose piece that is designed specifically to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction of façade panels.
This type of nose piece controls the final set position of the rivet so that a consistent 0.3 mm gap is maintained between the rivet head flange and the panel surface. By allowing the panel to expand and contract independently of the fixing point, the stand‑off nose piece helps prevent stress build‑up, distortion, surface cracking, and oil‑canning—common issues when rigid fixings restrain natural panel movement. This approach improves long‑term façade performance, visual consistency, and compliance with manufacturer installation guidelines.
Refer to the panel manufacturer’s installation guidelines for confirmation of stand off nose piece requirements.
Product Specifications:
| SKU | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | To suit rivets |
|---|---|---|---|
| R-SONP-14 | 32 | 27 | R AS LF (LAC) 4.0, R AS LF (LAC) 5.0 |
| R-SONP-15 | 32 | 27 | R AS LF (LAC) 4.8 |
| R-SONP-16 | 32 | 27 | R SS LF (LAC) 4.8, R SSA4 LF (LAC) 4.8 |
How to change a rivet nose piece (step by step)
Changing a nose piece is quick and simple.
What you need:
The nose piece wrench supplied with the tool
The correct replacement nose piece
1
Step One
Make the tool safe
Remove the battery from the riveter
Ensure there is no rivet in the tool
2
Step Two
Remove the current nose piece
Place the wrench on the flats of the nose piece
Turn anti-clockwise to loosen
Unscrew and remove it by hand
3
Step Three
Fit the new nose piece
Screw the new nose piece on by hand
Tighten gently with the wrench (do not over-tighten)
4
Step Four
Check before use
Refit the battery
Insert a rivet and test
Ensure the rivet pulls smoothly and snaps cleanly
Need help?
Contact Fixfast technical support by emailing [email protected] or calling on +44 (0)1732 882387
