High Quality Rivets for CNC Machining(gear manufacturing Chloe)
- Time:
- Click:12
- source:MAJA CNC Machining
What are Rivets?
A rivet is a mechanical fastener that consists of two main parts - a cylindrical shaft and a head. Rivets are inserted into holes in two or more layers of material and the tails are upset, or deformed, to mechanically fasten the layers together. The upsetting of the tail expands it, creating a second head and clamping the layers together. Rivets come in a wide variety of styles, sizes and materials to suit different applications.
Benefits of Rivets for CNC Machining
Rivets offer unique benefits for CNC machined parts and products:
- Strength - Upsetting the rivet tail expands it, creating a very strong clamping force to hold materials together. This creates a secure, reliable connection.
- Vibration resistance - Riveted joints tend to withstand vibration better than other fastener types like screws. The upsetting process work hardens the rivet, increasing its strength.
- Weight savings - High strength-to-weight ratio compared to other fasteners. Using rivets can reduce weight in many applications.
- Flexibility - Many head styles, shank lengths, and materials are available to suit diverse applications and joint requirements.
- Automation - Rivet installation is highly suitable for automation and integration into CNC machining processes.
Key Properties of Quality Rivets
Several factors determine the quality and performance of rivets for CNC machined components:
Material Strength
Aircraft-grade aluminum, steel, stainless steel, copper, and specialty alloys are common rivet materials. The material must have adequate tensile strength, shear strength, and fatigue strength for the application. Aircraft rivets, for example, require high strength-to-weight ratios.
Hardness
The rivet shank and head should be suitably hard to resist deformation during installation and service. Hardness is especially important for the head, which must resist damage from installation tools and handling.
Ductility
The rivet tail needs to be ductile enough to deform and expand during installation, creating a secure head. Rivets that are too brittle may crack or fail to set properly.
Dimensional Consistency
Quality rivets will consistently meet size specifications for the shank diameter, head style, head height, shank length, grip length, and other dimensions. Consistency ensures proper fit and fastening.
Concentricity
A quality rivet has a shank that is concentric with the head to allow uniform deformation. Eccentricity can lead to uneven setting and lower strength.
Surface Finish
Smooth surface finishes without cracks, folds, or other defects reduce installation problems and improve fatigue life. Proper finishes also aid insertion and setting.
Rivet Styles for CNC Machining
Common rivet types used in CNC machined components include:
Solid Rivets - Most versatile and widely used, provides high strength. Available with flat, round, brazier, countersunk, modified brazier, and other head styles.
Blind Rivets - Installed from one side for fastening internal layers or when there is only access to one side. Expands sleeve to form second head.
Self-Plugging Rivets - Has a hollow stem that fills hole when set, creating a leakproof joint. Used extensively in aircraft.
Drive Rivets - Has pre-formed head andspecially shaped shank. Set by driving the rivet with high force to flare the tail.
Structural Rivets - Extra large and ultra-high strength rivets designed for critical structural joints. Used in aircraft, bridges, trucks, and heavy machinery.
Tri-Fold Rivets - Has three-lobe design that provides very high shear strength for maximum joint integrity.
Rivet Materials for CNC Applications
Common rivet materials include:
Aluminum - Light weight, high strength, and good corrosion resistance make aluminum ideal for aircraft and other critical joints. Various alloys available.
Steel - Low cost but high strength steel rivets suitable for industrial machinery, railcars, trucks, and marine applications. Must be plated/coated to resist corrosion.
Stainless Steel - Offers excellent corrosion resistance and high temperature capability. Used in harsh environments. Provides good shear strength.
Copper - Malleable and ductile material that deforms and sets easily. Primarily used for plumbing joints that require water tight seals.
Monel - Nickel-copper alloy with strength approaching steel but good corrosion resistance. Used in marine and other demanding environments.
Titanium - Extremely strong but lightweight rivet material. Used in aircraft, aerospace, and high-performance applications where weight savings are critical.
In summary, high quality rivets are essential for creating strong, reliable, and durable CNC machined components and products. Carefully selecting rivets based on critical properties and design needs is key to achieving optimal performance. With quality rivets, manufacturers can maximize the advantages of CNC machining processes. CNC Milling CNC Machining