Rivets Play an Important Role in CNC Manufacturing (bronze for sale Luther)

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Rivets may seem like simple fasteners, but they are an essential component in many products produced using computer numerical control (CNC) machines. From aircraft and automobiles to bridges and building structures, rivets hold together critical joints and connections. Understanding the role rivets play in CNC manufacturing can help engineers and technicians optimize their use.
What are Rivets?
A rivet is a mechanical fastener that consists of two main parts - a smooth cylindrical shaft and a head. The shaft is inserted into pre-drilled holes through the materials being joined. The rivet head is then flattened using specialized tools, creating a solid joint. The deformation of the shaft under the head is called the shophead. Rivets come in different materials, head shapes, diameters and lengths to accommodate various applications.
Common Types of Rivets Used in CNC
Several types of rivets are commonly used in computer-controlled machining and fabrication. Here are some of the most popular:
- Solid/Blind Rivets - Tubular rivets with a mandrel through the center. When installed, the mandrel is pulled to deform the rivet. Used where access is only available from one side.
- Structural Rivets - Used for high strength critical joints, especially in aircraft. Made of alloy steel, titanium and other high strength materials.
- Drive Rivets - Set by hammering the pre-formed head to deform the shaft. Used for non-critical applications.
- Monobolts - A type of structural rivet where the head and shank are cold forged together rather than mechanically joined. Extremely strong and reliable.
- Self-Piercing Rivets - Designed to pierce through sheet materials rather than requiring pre-drilled holes. Common in auto manufacturing.
- Pop Rivets - Quickly installed blind rivets commonly used for light sheet metal, upholstery, electronics and other low-strength applications.
Key Benefits of Rivets in CNC
There are several reasons rivets are heavily utilized in computer numerically controlled (CNC) production:
- Strength - When properly installed, rivets form very tight joints that have excellent shear and tensile strength. This allows thinner, lighter materials to be used.
- Reliability - Rivet joints have proven extremely reliable in heavy vibration environments like aircraft and machinery when properly designed and assembled.
- Balance of Cost and Strength - Rivets provide very high strength for low cost compared to alternatives like welding, bonding or bolting. Weight savings also compensate for higher labor.
- Easy Visual Inspection - Installed rivets are easily inspected to verify proper installation. Failed or loose rivets can be quickly identified through visual inspection and replaced.
- Weight Savings - Thousands of rivets may be used to assemble an aircraft or vehicle. Using rivets instead of heavy bolts or welds cuts down on weight substantially.
- Ease of Automation - Small rivets are highly suited for automated installation by CNC-controlled robots or machinery to improve precision and speed.
- Reversible Fastening - Rivets can generally be removed and reinstalled without damage to the base materials, allowing for disassembly, repairs and upgrades.
- No Additional Parts or Consumables - Unlike welds, screws or bonded fasteners, rivets do not require electricity, adhesives or additional parts other than the rivet itself.
How are Rivets Used in CNC Processes?
Modern CNC machining centers can produce, finish and install rivets with a high degree of automation. Here is an overview of how rivets are integrated into computer numerically controlled manufacturing:
- CNC machining - Industrial CNC lathes employing precision tooling are used to manufacture rivet shafts and heads from bar stock feed materia CNC Milling CNC Machining