1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Sealey SA31 Air/Hydraulic Riveter. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the tool to ensure proper handling and to prevent injury or damage.
The Sealey SA31 is a powerful air/hydraulic tool designed for setting both aluminum and steel rivets up to 3/16 inch (4.8mm). It features a trigger-operated mechanism, hardened steel jaw assembly, and a rivet shaft safety cap for efficient and secure riveting applications.
2. Safety Instructions
WARNING: Always observe basic safety precautions when using power tools to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury.
- Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear eye protection (safety glasses or goggles) and hearing protection. Gloves are recommended.
- Work Area: Keep your work area clean, well-lit, and free from clutter. Do not operate in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.
- Tool Condition: Inspect the tool for damage before each use. Do not use if damaged. Ensure all connections are secure.
- Air Supply: Ensure the air supply is clean, dry, and at the correct pressure (90 psi recommended). Disconnect air supply before changing accessories, servicing, or when not in use.
- Secure Workpiece: Always secure the workpiece firmly. Do not hold it by hand.
- Avoid Accidental Starting: Ensure the trigger is not depressed when connecting to the air supply.
- Maintenance: Maintain the tool with care. Keep it clean for better and safer performance. Follow lubrication instructions.
- Children and Bystanders: Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool.
3. Product Overview
Figure 1: Sealey SA31 Air/Hydraulic Riveter. This image displays the complete tool, featuring its red main body, silver nozzle assembly, trigger, and transparent spent mandrel collector at the rear.
Components:
- Nozzle Assembly: The front part of the tool where the rivet is inserted. Comes with four interchangeable nozzles for different rivet sizes.
- Trigger: Activates the air/hydraulic mechanism to set the rivet.
- Hardened Steel Jaw Assembly: Internal component responsible for gripping and pulling the rivet mandrel.
- Rivet Shaft Safety Cap / Mandrel Collector: A transparent cap at the rear that collects spent rivet mandrels, preventing them from scattering.
- Air Inlet: Connection point for the compressed air hose.
4. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | SA31 |
| Air Consumption | 4.2 cfm |
| Operating Pressure | 90 psi |
| Rivet Type | Blind Rivet |
| Rivet Capacity | Up to 3/16 inch (4.8mm) for Aluminium and Steel |
| Weight | 1.3 kg (2.87 lbs) |
| Noise Pressure | 75.1 dB |
| Material | Aluminum, Alloy Steel |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 287mm x 177mm x 90mm |
5. Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the riveter and all accessories from its packaging. Verify that all components listed in the "SET CONTAINS" section of the product description are present (1 x Piece, four riveting nozzles, two spanners).
- Air Supply Connection: Connect the riveter to a clean, dry compressed air supply capable of delivering 90 psi (6.2 bar) operating pressure and 4.2 cfm air consumption. Use an appropriate air hose and quick-connect fitting. Ensure the air line is free of moisture and debris.
- Nozzle Selection and Installation: Select the correct size nozzle for the rivet you intend to use. The rivet body should fit snugly into the nozzle. Screw the chosen nozzle firmly onto the front of the riveter. Use the provided spanners if necessary to tighten securely.
- Mandrel Collector: Ensure the transparent rivet shaft safety cap (mandrel collector) at the rear of the tool is securely attached. This collects the spent mandrels after riveting.
6. Operating Instructions
- Prepare Workpiece: Drill a hole in the workpiece that matches the diameter of the rivet body. The hole should be clean and free of burrs.
- Insert Rivet: Insert the rivet into the pre-drilled hole in your workpiece.
- Position Riveter: Place the selected nozzle of the riveter over the rivet mandrel, ensuring the rivet body is fully seated against the workpiece surface.
- Operate Trigger: Firmly press the trigger. The tool will pull the rivet mandrel, deforming the rivet body to create a secure joint. Continue holding the trigger until the mandrel snaps off.
- Release Trigger: Release the trigger. The tool will reset, and the spent mandrel will be ejected into the transparent collector.
- Empty Collector: Periodically empty the mandrel collector to prevent blockages and ensure proper operation.
7. Maintenance
- Daily Maintenance:
- Disconnect from air supply after use.
- Empty the mandrel collector.
- Clean the tool exterior with a dry cloth.
- Add a few drops of pneumatic tool oil into the air inlet before and after each use to lubricate internal components.
- Nozzle Care: Keep nozzles clean and free of debris. Replace worn or damaged nozzles immediately to ensure proper rivet setting.
- Jaw Assembly: If the tool begins to fail to grip or pull mandrels effectively, the jaw assembly may need cleaning or replacement. Consult a qualified technician or Sealey service center for this.
- Storage: Store the tool in a clean, dry environment away from extreme temperatures and corrosive materials.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tool does not operate or has low power. | Insufficient air pressure or volume; clogged air inlet; lack of lubrication; internal damage. | Check air supply pressure (should be 90 psi) and compressor capacity. Ensure air hose is not kinked. Clean air inlet. Lubricate tool. If problem persists, seek professional service. |
| Rivet mandrel does not snap off. | Incorrect nozzle size; worn jaw assembly; rivet too hard for tool capacity; insufficient air pressure. | Ensure correct nozzle is used. Check and replace jaw assembly if worn. Verify rivet material and size are within tool's capacity. Check air pressure. |
| Mandrels not collecting in safety cap. | Safety cap loose or detached; blockage in mandrel path. | Securely attach safety cap. Clear any blockages from the mandrel path and collector. |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries regarding your Sealey SA31 Air/Hydraulic Riveter, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Sealey website. Contact details for customer support are typically available on the manufacturer's website or product packaging.
Always use genuine Sealey replacement parts to ensure the continued safe and efficient operation of your tool.
