How do I correctly rivet a patch plate over an accidental hole in high-pressure duct

Plain-English answer

1. Cut a patch plate out of matching metal gauge that extends at least 2 inches past the hole edge on all sides. 2. Apply a heavy bed of high-pressure silicone or mastic around the patch perimeter. 3. Drill matching pilot holes through the patch and duct wall using a bit sized exactly to your blind pop-rivets. 4. Use a pop-rivet gun to pull aluminum or steel rivets tight every 2 inches along the patch borders.

Field checklist

• Cut a patch plate out of matching metal gauge that extends at least 2 inches past the hole edge on all sides.
• Apply a heavy bed of high-pressure silicone or mastic around the patch perimeter.
• Drill matching pilot holes through the patch and duct wall using a bit sized exactly to your blind pop-rivets.
• Use a pop-rivet gun to pull aluminum or steel rivets tight every 2 inches along the patch borders.

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