What happens if the rivet head is not removed after drilling?

Removing the rivet head after drilling is a critical step in the rivet removal process because it ensures that the remaining parts of the rivet can be easily extracted from the assembly. If the head is not removed, it can obstruct proper access to the remaining rivet shank and complicate the removal process. Using a punch to remove the rivet head allows for effective continuation of the disassembly process.

If the rivet head remains, it could lead to potential difficulties in accessing the rest of the rivet or lead to damage of the surrounding materials. Moreover, leaving the head in place may cause issues during the reassembly phase, as the leftover debris could interfere with the integrity or alignment of the new rivet or fastener being installed. This practice ensures that any remnants from the previous assembly are completely cleared out, maintaining the integrity of the new assembly process.

Thus, employing a punch to effectively remove the rivet head is the correct and appropriate action to take after drilling.