Rivets: An Essential Fastening Method in Manufacturing(die cast zinc Gregary)

  • Time:
  • Click:13
  • source:MAJA CNC Machining
Rivets are a type of mechanical fastener used to join multiple materials together. They have been an important component in manufacturing and construction for centuries. In this article, we will explore what rivets are, their different types and materials, benefits over other fasteners, and their wide-ranging applications and uses across industries.
What are Rivets?
A rivet is a cylindrical fastener that gets installed by inserting two component parts into holes in the materials being joined and mechanically deforming the inserted shank. This creates a permanent joint by cold working.
The two main components of a rivet are:
- Head: The head is the top part of the rivet that is wider than the shank. It provides the bearing surface and countersinks into the material.
- Shank: The shank is the long body of the rivet that goes through the holes in both materials. When deformed, it creates permanent tension.
Rivets work by placing the rivet shank through aligned holes in two or more materials. Then a riveting hammer or rivet gun applies a strong force that mashes the tail end of the shank. This expands the shank and compresses the materials together. The rivet head supports the materials being joined from the other side.
Types of Rivets
There are several types of rivets used for different applications:
- Solid/Blind Rivets: Most common type with pre-formed head.Installed from one side when access is limited.
- Structural Rivets: Used for high-strength critical joints. Require access to both sides for installation.
- Drive Rivets: Have shallow domed heads. Used for softer materials like plastic and sheet metal.
- Split Rivets: Split-pin tail that expands when setting the rivet. Allows fastening of dissimilar thickness materials.
- Tubular Rivets: Hollow with large heads. Used for low strength non-critical joints.
Rivet Materials
The rivet material needs to match the strength, corrosion resistance, temperature tolerance, and appearance demands of the application. Common materials include:
- Aluminum: Lightweight, strong, and corrosion resistant. Widely used for aircraft and electronics.
- Steel: Very strong but prone to corrosion. Often electroplated or stainless steel. Used for high-stress applications.
- Copper: Excellent corrosion resistance and conductivity. Used in marine settings and electronics.
- Plastics: Light duty usage. Nylon or polypropylene for flexibility. PVC for chemical resistance.
- Monel: Excellent corrosion resistance. Used for marine and chemical environments.
- Titanium: Very strong but lightweight. Used in aircraft and aerospace applications.
Benefits of Rivets
There are several advantages that make rivets a preferred choice over other fastening methods:
- Permanent: Once set, the mashed shank cannot come loose under vibration or load.
- Strength: The rivet shank fills the entire hole for maximum fastening strength.
- Reliability: Proven reliable technology with very low failure rates when properly installed.
- Quick: Manual, hammer, or pneumatic setting allows rapid installation.
- Material Versatility: Suitable rivet materials allow fastening dissimilar or brittle materials.
- Appearance: Smooth finished look without protruding threads.
- Cost: Relatively inexpensive compared to other permanent fasteners.
Rivet Applications and Uses
Rivets have thousands of uses across practically every manufacturing sector thanks to their versatility, strength, and ease of installation. Some of the most common applications include:
Aircraft and Aerospace
Rivets are the preferred fastener for airplane assembly. The light weight but high strength makes rivets ideal for wings, fuselage, and other components where reliable fastening is critical. Corrosion resistant aluminum and titanium rivets are very common.
Machinery Manufacturing
Industrial machinery often uses steel rivets for permanently joining parts under high vibration loads. The reliability also prevents loosening over years of service.
Automotive Manufacturing
While welds and bolts are common, auto makers rely on rivets for high volume dashboard, console, door panel, and seat assembly. Drive rivets efficiently fasten plastic and sheet metal components.
Appliances
The manufacture of appliances like washers, dryers, and refrigerators involves joining thin sheet metal, making rivets the optimal choice. The permanence also prevents loosening during transportation.
Electronics
Electronics assembly frequently uses small aluminum or plastic rivets. They quickly secure components inside cases where access is limited and a permanent method is needed.
HVAC Ductwork
Heating and cooling ducts are often assembled using aluminum or stainless steel rivets. They maintain fastening integrity even with vibration from air flow and fans.
Plumbing
Copper rivets are common for joining pipes, drains, gutters, and other plumbing components. Their corrosion resistance withstands water exposure while keeping a solid hold.
In Summary
Rivets have proven themselves as a versatile, strong, and reliable fastening method across countless applications. Their permanent hold, material options, assembly speed, and cost continue to make rivets a top choice for manufacturers, craftsmen, and designers alike. As technology evolves, rivets continue finding new uses while retaining their core benefits that have persisted for centuries. CNC Milling CNC Machining