Adhesive vs Rivet vs Screw: Main Comparison

Define the Mounting Priorities

Ask these questions first

• Can the equipment be drilled legally and safely?
• Does the manufacturer provide approved mounting points?
• Must the tag be removable?
• Will the equipment vibrate?
• What temperature will the mounting experience?
• Which cleaners, oils or chemicals may contact it?
• Is the surface painted, coated, plastic, stainless steel or aluminium?
• Could moisture become trapped behind the tag?
• Would removal damage a valuable or certified surface?
• What happens operationally if the tag falls off?

Industrial Adhesive Mounting

Adhesive-backed metal tags use a selected double-sided tape, acrylic-foam tape, transfer adhesive or another engineered bonding system.

Main advantages

• No drilling into the machine
• No visible fastener heads
• Load distributed across a larger bonded area
• Can help isolate direct contact between dissimilar metals
• Fast installation on approved surfaces
• Suitable for thin tags without mounting holes

Main limitations

• Depends on the integrity of the equipment surface or paint
• Sensitive to contamination and poor preparation
• May require time before reaching its developed bond strength
• Edges can lift when peel forces are concentrated
• Removal may leave residue or damage coating
• Not every adhesive suits every temperature, chemical or material

Surface Requirements for Adhesive Mounting

Suitable surfaces are generally:

• Sound and securely attached to the equipment
• Clean
• Dry
• Free from oil, dust, release agents and loose oxidation
• Sufficiently flat for good adhesive contact
• Compatible with the selected adhesive

Painted and powder-coated surfaces

The adhesive bonds to the coating rather than directly to the underlying machine. If the paint is weak, chalking, peeling or contaminated, the complete bond may fail even when the tape remains attached to the paint.

Textured surfaces

Deep texture reduces the real contact area. A thicker conformable adhesive may help in selected cases, but the exact surface should be tested.

Low-surface-energy plastics

Some plastics are difficult to bond with ordinary adhesive systems. A specialised tape, primer or different mounting method may be required.

Recently painted equipment

Confirm that the coating has fully cured according to the paint supplier. Solvents or additives migrating from a coating can affect adhesion.

Recommended Adhesive Installation Process

1. Confirm surface compatibility.
   Identify the paint, powder coating, plastic or metal and obtain the adhesive supplier’s recommendation.
2. Inspect the surface.
   Reject loose paint, corrosion, heavy texture, silicone contamination or damaged areas.
3. Clean using the approved method.
   Follow the adhesive manufacturer’s cleaning instructions and allow the surface to dry.
4. Abrade or prime only when specified.
   Do not alter a coated or certified surface without approval.
5. Apply tape without contamination.
   Avoid touching the exposed adhesive and prevent wrinkles or trapped debris.
6. Position the tag accurately.
   Use a guide because repositioning may weaken or damage the adhesive layer.
7. Apply firm and uniform pressure.
   Use a suitable roller, platen or controlled hand tool over the full bonded area.
8. Allow the bond to develop.
   Follow the product-specific time and temperature instructions before exposing the tag to service loads or cleaning.
9. Inspect the perimeter.
   Confirm that corners and edges are fully seated without visible gaps.

Peel, Shear and Edge-Lifting Forces

Shear-style loading

Adhesive mounting generally performs more favourably when forces act parallel to the bonded surface and are distributed over the available area.

Peel-style loading

A force concentrated at one corner or edge can begin lifting the tag progressively. This can occur when:

• A cleaning cloth catches a corner
• The tag overhangs a curved panel
• The plate is bent or warped
• A tool or cable strikes the edge
• Water or dirt collects behind a lifted corner

Reduce edge-lifting risk

• Use rounded tag corners
• Keep the plate fully supported
• Avoid installing across panel joints
• Select an adhesive that suits the substrate and environment
• Apply sufficient pressure across the full area
• Position the tag away from frequent contact

Removing Adhesive-Mounted Tags

Adhesive-mounted tags can often be removed, but removal should not be assumed to be quick, clean or damage-free.

Possible removal effects

• Adhesive residue
• Paint lifting
• Gloss or colour difference beneath the tag
• Scratches from removal tools
• Damage to plastic panels
• Distortion of thin metal tags

Plan replacement before installation

When tags are expected to change frequently, a screw-mounted plate, tag holder or replaceable carrier may be more practical than a permanent adhesive system.

Do not apply excessive heat automatically

Heating may affect paint, plastic, seals, electronics or the adhesive. Follow the equipment and adhesive manufacturer’s removal instructions.

Rivet-Mounted Metal Asset Tags

Blind rivets are inserted through aligned holes and installed from the accessible side of the assembly. The rivet body expands or forms on the rear side to clamp the components.

Main advantages

• Mechanical retention
• Installation possible with one-side access using suitable blind rivets
• Generally permanent
• Clear evidence of removal or replacement
• Fast production installation with correct tools
• Not dependent on paint adhesion across the full tag area

Main limitations

• Requires approved holes
• Removal normally damages the rivet
• Incorrect holes or grip range can cause a loose joint
• Drilling can expose bare metal
• Blind-side clearance is still required for the formed rivet body
• Rivet and panel materials require corrosion review

Selecting a Rivet

Selection factors include:

• Rivet body diameter
• Required hole diameter
• Total grip thickness
• Rivet body material
• Mandrel material
• Head style and diameter
• Available blind-side space
• Equipment-panel strength
• Vibration and environmental exposure
• Corrosion and electrical requirements

Head size matters

A head that is too small may concentrate force around the tag hole. A larger-flange rivet may distribute force more widely but requires sufficient space and an appropriate joint design.

Tag thickness is only part of the grip

The grip range must include the tag and the equipment panel or mounting bracket being clamped.

Rivet Hole and Grip Requirements

Hole diameter

Follow the selected rivet manufacturer’s specified hole range. A hole that is too large or irregular can reduce clamping consistency and alignment.

Hole position

Keep sufficient material between the hole and the edge of the tag. Exact edge distance should follow the tag material, hole size and fastener design.

Drilling quality

• Use a controlled hole location
• Prevent swarf from entering machinery
• Deburr the hole
• Protect exposed metal where required
• Remove sharp edges
• Confirm no wiring or components are behind the panel

Do not use the tag as an uncontrolled drilling template

An approved template or jig provides more consistent spacing and reduces the chance of the drill damaging the finished tag.

Removing Riveted Tags

A blind rivet is normally removed by drilling or mechanically removing its head and body.

Removal risks

• Enlarging the machine-panel hole
• Scratching the surrounding paint
• Allowing metal chips into the equipment
• Damaging the tag or underlying panel
• Leaving part of the mandrel inside an enclosure

Replacement planning

When future tag changes are expected, consider rivet nuts, threaded inserts, an approved plate holder or screws instead of repeatedly drilling out blind rivets.

Screw-Mounted Metal Asset Tags

Screw mounting secures the tag using an existing or newly created threaded connection, a nut-and-bolt arrangement, threaded insert or other approved mounting point.

Main advantages

• Tag can normally be removed and replaced
• Suitable for repainting or equipment servicing
• Fast installation when mounting points already exist
• Washers can distribute load around the tag hole
• Security screws can discourage casual removal

Main limitations

• Threaded joints can loosen under vibration if not designed correctly
• Over-tightening can deform a thin tag
• Threads can strip or cross-thread
• Screw heads and washers occupy layout space
• Unapproved holes can compromise equipment integrity
• Removal may be too easy where theft or tampering is a concern

Thread and Mounting Options

Existing threaded hole

Often the preferred option when the machine manufacturer has provided a suitable mounting location.

Nut and bolt

Provides a controlled through-fastening arrangement when both sides of the panel can be accessed and sufficient clearance exists.

Threaded insert or rivet nut

Can create a reusable thread in suitable thin sheet where only one-side installation access is available. Engineering approval and correct installation tools remain necessary.

Self-tapping or thread-forming screw

May be suitable for selected sheet-metal or plastic panels, but it should not be inserted into equipment without confirming panel thickness, material, internal clearance and the manufacturer’s requirements.

Existing machine fastener

Do not loosen a structural, sealing, guard, grounding or safety-related fastener merely to add an identification tag.

Vibration and Screw Loosening

Equipment vibration, cyclic loading and joint movement can contribute to loss of clamp force or fastener loosening.

Possible controls include:

• Correct fastener size and material
• Approved tightening procedure
• Suitable washer or flange arrangement
• Thread-locking patch or compound
• Prevailing-torque nut
• Mechanical locking feature
• Inspection and retightening plan

Do not choose a locking product by habit

Locking methods differ in temperature capability, chemical resistance, removability and reuse. Follow the fastener or locking-system supplier’s technical recommendation.

Do not publish a universal torque

Suitable tightening depends on the screw, thread, material, lubrication, washer, insert and equipment design.

Washers, Screw Heads and Tag Clearance

Washers may help:

• Distribute clamp force
• Reduce local deformation around a tag hole
• Protect a decorative tag surface
• Support an oversized or slotted hole when correctly specified

However, washers also occupy space

Keep the washer and screw head clear of:

• QR Code quiet zones
• Data Matrix symbols
• Serial numbers
• Company logos
• Rounded corners
• Tag edges

Countersunk fasteners

Countersinking can create a flatter appearance but removes tag material and requires sufficient tag thickness and a correctly matched head angle. It is not automatically suitable for thin asset tags.

Tamper Resistance and Evidence

Tamper resistant does not mean tamper proof

Determined removal remains possible. High-security applications may require a controlled asset register, inspection seals, embedded identification or another security system.

Dissimilar Metals and Galvanic Corrosion

When two different metals are electrically connected in the presence of a conductive liquid, one material may corrode faster.

Possible combinations requiring review

• Stainless-steel tag on aluminium equipment
• Aluminium tag with stainless-steel rivets
• Stainless tag with carbon-steel screws
• Copper or brass tag on aluminium
• Zinc-plated fastener in a wet or chemical environment

Possible controls

• Select compatible materials
• Use an approved insulating layer or washer
• Prevent moisture retention
• Use suitable coatings and fastener finishes
• Seal exposed holes where appropriate
• Obtain corrosion advice for coastal or chemical environments

Water Ingress and Enclosure Integrity

Adhesive mounting

Avoids penetrating the enclosure but can trap water behind an incompletely bonded plate when edges lift or the panel is curved.

Rivet and screw mounting

Drilled holes may affect water resistance, dust protection, insulation or certification. Suitable sealing fasteners, washers or approved sealants may be necessary.

Electrical enclosures

Do not drill an electrical cabinet merely to mount an asset tag without confirming the enclosure rating, internal clearances and equipment-owner approval.

Pressure and process equipment

Never drill into tanks, pressure-containing parts, pipes, jackets or sealed process surfaces without formal engineering approval.

Temperature Considerations

Adhesive

Confirm both the installation temperature and the continuous and short-term service temperatures. A product that bonds well at room temperature may not suit a hot machine enclosure or cold-storage environment.

Rivets and screws

Mechanical fasteners can also be affected by thermal expansion, material-strength changes, coatings and different expansion rates between the tag and equipment.

Thermal cycling

Repeated heating and cooling can stress adhesive edges, loosen threaded joints or change the clamping of dissimilar materials.

Do not mount near unknown hot surfaces

Measure or obtain the expected surface temperature before choosing the tag, adhesive or fastener.

Oil, Chemicals and Cleaning

Possible exposures

• Machine oil
• Cutting fluid
• Alcohol-based cleaner
• Detergent
• Alkaline wash
• Acidic cleaner
• Solvent
• Pressure wash

Adhesive considerations

Chemicals can affect the adhesive edge, equipment coating or surface preparation. Confirm exposure type, concentration, temperature and duration.

Mechanical-fastener considerations

Chemical exposure can corrode fasteners, washers, exposed holes and the interface between the plate and machine.

Cleaning action matters

A cloth, brush or pressure jet repeatedly catching the tag edge can be more damaging than occasional chemical contact.

Mounting Method by Equipment Surface

Curved and Uneven Equipment Surfaces

Flat tag on a curved surface

The centre may contact while the edges remain unsupported, or the edges may contact while the centre bridges above the surface.

Possible solutions

• Use a smaller tag
• Pre-form a suitable thin metal tag
• Use a shaped mounting bracket
• Select a conformable adhesive where appropriate
• Use approved mechanical mounting
• Move the tag to a flatter location

Do not force a thick plate around a tight curve

Spring-back can create continuous peeling force on adhesive or stress around fastener holes.

Permanent vs Removable Installation

Permanent installation may suit:

• Long-life machinery
• Regulated internal asset control
• Outdoor equipment
• Tags where tamper evidence is important

Removable installation may suit:

• Equipment that is repainted regularly
• Interchangeable machine modules
• Rental equipment
• Tags expected to receive updated technology
• Identification plates requiring periodic replacement

The asset number should normally remain stable

Replacement of the physical plate should not automatically create a new asset identity. Record the replacement in the asset database.

Hybrid Mounting Methods

Some applications may combine adhesive with screws or rivets.

Possible purposes

• Adhesive holds the tag in position during fastening
• Adhesive reduces vibration or rattling
• Mechanical fasteners provide backup retention
• An insulating layer separates dissimilar metals
• A seal reduces moisture entry behind the tag

Hybrid does not automatically mean stronger

Poorly selected adhesive can prevent the tag from seating correctly, while over-tightened fasteners can compress or displace the adhesive unevenly.

Define the primary retention method

The drawing and installation procedure should state whether the adhesive or mechanical fasteners carry the required retention function.

Design the Tag for Its Mounting Method

Adhesive-mounted tag

• Maximise usable bonding area
• Use rounded corners
• Keep the tag flat
• Avoid unnecessary holes
• Prevent unsupported overhang

Rivet-mounted tag

• Confirm the hole diameter
• Provide sufficient edge distance
• Allow rivet-head clearance
• Confirm the number and spacing of holes
• Allow for installation-tool access

Screw-mounted tag

• Confirm the screw size and head type
• Allow washer clearance
• Consider slots only where adjustment is necessary
• Avoid excessive slot length that permits movement
• Confirm tool access for installation and removal

Protect QR Codes, Serial Numbers and Quiet Zones

Mounting hardware must not interfere with machine-readable or human-readable identification.

Keep clear of:

• QR Code quiet zones
• Data Matrix clear areas
• Barcode bars
• Serial-number characters
• Logo details
• Critical safety instructions

Allow for tool movement

A screwdriver, drill or rivet tool can scratch nearby markings if the layout leaves insufficient working clearance.

Check with the actual hardware

A digital drawing may show only the hole diameter and not the larger screw head, washer or rivet flange.

Choose the Installation Position

The position should be:

• Visible during inspection
• Accessible to the intended scanner
• Protected from frequent impact
• Away from moving parts
• Away from high heat
• Away from liquid-collection areas
• Clear of service doors and handles

Do not cover:

• Manufacturer serial plates
• Certification labels
• Safety warnings
• Emergency instructions
• Inspection stickers
• Ventilation openings
• Controls
• Guard fasteners

Record the approved position

Use a photograph or installation drawing for consistent placement across multiple machines.

Installation Safety on Machinery

Drilling, riveting and screwing can expose workers to moving machinery, stored energy, electrical systems, pressurised sections and sharp metal swarf.

Before installation:

• Obtain approval from the equipment owner
• Review the machine manual and warranty conditions
• Identify electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic and thermal energy
• Follow the organisation’s isolation and lockout/tagout procedure
• Confirm authorised personnel and required permits
• Check for hidden wires, pipes and components
• Protect electronics and moving parts from drilling swarf
• Use suitable personal protective equipment

Asset tags are not safety lockout tags

A permanent equipment-identification plate must not replace an energy-isolation tag, warning label, inspection certificate or operating instruction.

Test the Complete Mounting Method

Test on the actual equipment surface

A clean sample panel may not represent aged paint, contamination, vibration, heat or texture on the real machine.

Test after representative exposure

Inspect the tag after cleaning, temperature cycling, vibration or other conditions expected in service.

Customer-defined acceptance

Where formal retention, corrosion, enclosure, vibration or safety performance is required, obtain the applicable engineering specification and test method.

Installation Quality-Control Checklist

1. Confirm the equipment identity.
   Match the tag number and machine before installation.
2. Confirm the approved location.
   Compare the machine with the installation photograph or drawing.
3. Inspect the tag.
   Check the metal, engraving, holes, backing and code readability.
4. Inspect the machine surface.
   Look for contamination, damage, curvature and hidden installation risks.
5. Isolate the equipment where required.
   Follow the approved site procedure before drilling or working near hazards.
6. Install using the approved method.
   Follow the adhesive, rivet or fastener supplier’s instructions.
7. Inspect final seating.
   Confirm no lifted edges, loose fasteners, deformed tag or exposed sharp edges.
8. Scan the code.
   Confirm that it opens or decodes the correct equipment record.
9. Photograph the completed installation.
   Save evidence of the position and condition.
10. Update the asset database.
    Record the installer, date, location and mounting method.

Inspection, Maintenance and Replacement

Adhesive-mounted tags

• Check for lifting corners
• Check for trapped water or dirt
• Check for movement when lightly inspected
• Check for coating failure beneath the adhesive

Rivet-mounted tags

• Check for looseness or spinning rivets
• Check for corrosion around holes
• Check for cracked or enlarged tag holes
• Check for missing or damaged rivet heads

Screw-mounted tags

• Check for loose or missing screws
• Check washers and locking features
• Check for stripped threads
• Check for corrosion or paint damage

Replace before the tag is lost

A controlled replacement process should retain the same asset identity and document the reason for replacement.

Common Mounting Failures

Recommended Mounting Method by Application

What Affects the Price?

Asset-tag cost factors

• Metal type and thickness
• Tag dimensions
• Rounded corners
• Hole quantity and diameter
• Engraving or marking method
• Variable asset numbers and codes
• Adhesive backing
• Rivets, screws, washers or inserts
• Installation template or jig
• Surface-testing requirement
• Packaging by machine or location

Installation cost factors

• Site location
• Equipment access
• Isolation and permit requirements
• Surface preparation
• Drilling or thread preparation
• Number of installation locations
• Completion photographs and records
• Travel and working-hour restrictions

Supply and installation should be separated clearly

The quotation should state whether tags are supplied with mounting components only or installed on site.

Information Needed for an Accurate Quotation

Recommended Selection and Installation Workflow

1. Audit the equipment.
   Record the surface, curvature, environment, vibration and available mounting area.
2. Confirm installation restrictions.
   Determine whether drilling, tapping or opening the equipment is allowed.
3. Define permanence.
   Decide whether the plate should be difficult to remove or easily replaceable.
4. Select the mounting direction.
   Choose adhesive, rivet, screw, holder or an approved combined method.
5. Select the tag construction.
   Confirm metal, thickness, dimensions, corners and holes.
6. Check material compatibility.
   Review adhesive compatibility, fastener material and galvanic-corrosion risk.
7. Create an actual-size prototype.
   Test hardware clearance, text readability and code scanning.
8. Test the complete assembly.
   Use a representative machine surface and expected environmental exposure.
9. Approve the location and method.
   Record the installation position, tools and procedure.
10. Produce and match the tags.
    Maintain the approved asset spreadsheet and packaging sequence.
11. Install safely.
    Follow equipment-owner approval, isolation and lockout/tagout procedures.
12. Complete final inspection.
    Check seating, fasteners, code readability and equipment condition.
13. Update the asset record.
    Save the installation date, photograph, mounting method and installer.

What Image Magic Recommends

Important Mounting, Durability and Safety Note

Frequently Asked Questions