Blind rivets are mainly used in applications where there is no access to the rear (blind side) of the joint. Rivets consist of a rivet body and a mandrel, pre-assembled and ready to use. A riveting tool draws the mandrel, causing the body to deform and clamp down on the joint. Once it meets the face of the blind side the mandrel snaps, and a tight joint is created. Blind rivets can replace nuts and bolts, screws and welds.