Mate Rivets, 2 piece tamper resistant fasteners 
Mate rivets, are the combination of two unique fastener components, which are designed to function together as mates. They are called “Rivet-Mates” by aDP Rivet who makes these sandwich type fasteners within their US facility. Mate rivets requires access to both sides of the application with a hole going through. This facilitates the Mate being inserted into the hole from one side, and the Rivet inserted from the opposite side. The rivet actually fits inside of the mates extra deep hole and when the rivet’s pulling nail is activated, it swells the rivet and locks itself into place. These two piece fasteners are capable of clamping materials up to 2″ thick. They offer a finished, similar appearance on both sides of the application. The tamper resistant feature is commonly used to fasten Highway and municipal signs since you can’t un-thread these. With a drill needed to remove mate rivets. These two piece fasteners are utilized in countless applications where tamper resistant, non-marring fasteners are desired.
There is one manufacturer who actually manufacturers 100% of the components involved in producing the finished 2 piece fastener. They assure the fit and function of their “Rivet-Mates” performance and shares their over 3000 customer feedback reviews online. Custom sizes are welcomed by this manufacturer as they control the entire design and production within their facility. Many of their products are available to purchase via their on line store. They offer two diameters of mate rivets. Their 3/16″ diameter is designed to fit into application holes up to 1/4″. The 1/4″ diameter is designed for application holes up to 5/16″ diameter and up to 2″ thickness.
You may find these in livestock pens and trailers. Horse stables and carriers use these as they provide a smooth finish on both sides of the application, making them safe for animals. Also used where security is an issue such as mail boxes, storage containers, municipal and commercial signs including street and highway sign applications.
When choosing a supplier for two piece mate rivets it is suggested asking for the raw material certifications and the manufacturers ability to provide lot or heat documentation. The raw materials used when making these products is vital to their performance and durability features. Some imported or “off shore” brands may not be made of the high alloy materials that provide the enhanced performance and durability. Over the years there have been numerous attempts to duplicate the fit and functional properties of mate rivets. Most alternatives do not achieve the design intent of the product due to “short-cuts” and substitute designs, which often do not produce the optimum fit and function performance. Think of the name as being part of the function of these 2 piece fasteners. There is a “rivet” and a “mate” and the critical fit between the two determines the function. aDP Rivet designs, builds and test their Rivet-mate 2 piece fasteners to assure the optimum performance.
