Uses for Rivets in Manufacturing and Construction(type of casting April)
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Structural Rivets
Structural rivets from aluminum, steel and exotic alloys are a lightweight and reliable fastening method for aircraft, bridges, cranes and other high-stress applications. The rivet shank fills the hole and allows transfer of shear loads between structural members. Multiple rows of rivets are typically staggered to distribute stresses evenly across panels and frames. Countersunk rivets with flush exterior heads provide a smooth aerodynamic surface. Structural joints must be carefully designed for proper rivet diameter, spacing, edge distances and overlap. Proper installation technique with calibrated torque or pressure settings is critical on structural rivets to limit deformation while ensuring a tight clamp.
Self-Piercing Rivets
In the automotive industry, self-piercing rivets (SPR) are an efficient alternative to spot welding for joining sheet metal and other materials. SPRs do not require pre-drilled holes, driving the rivet through stacked panels to interlock them. This enables automated high-speed joining of dissimilar metals and polymers with mixed thicknesses. The self-piercing process also eliminates volatile fumes from welding and reduces heat distortion compared to spot welding. SPRs form a clinch as the tail expands, creating a strong mechanical interlock. Advanced SPR designs allow for reliable connections of lightweight materials and improved dent/crash performance.
Blind Rivets
Blind rivets provide a fastener solution when access is only available to one side of a joint. The rivet assembly inserts through the accessible side and is set with a rivet gun. As the stem is drawn into the rivet body, the tail expands to form a blind head on the inaccessible side. Blind rivets are ideal for attaching internal structures, insulation, fabrics and many interior components where cosmetic appearance is important. They come in standard open-end and closed-end dome head styles with grip ranges suited to sheet metal and other common materials. Blind rivets must grip the material(s) sufficiently to resist rotation and provide adequate static and fatigue strength.
Split Rivets
Split rivets (also known as metric rivets) have a split shaft that expands into a diamond shape when set to create a large bearing surface. The flanges provide high shear strength and vibration resistance while allowing some movement between fastened parts. Common applications include securing trim, moldings, nameplates, access panels and any components subject to alignment shifts. The rivet snaps into a chamfered hole and is set with a squeezing tool to roll the flanges outward. Split rivets are available with cylindrical, countersunk and flat head styles in a wide range of diameters and grip lengths.
Drive Rivets
Drive rivets consist of a partially threaded shank and hex head that is driven using an air hammer or other power tool. As the head impacts against the workpiece, thethreads roll outward to fill the hole and create locking grooves. The result is a securely fastened joint without any buckling or distortion. Drive rivets offer high shear strength combined with some vibration damping capability. They are ideal for attaching plates, brackets, handles and other hardware where access is limited to one side. Drive rivets come in common machine screw thread sizes with grip ranges suited to sheet metal assemblies.
Tubular Rivets
Tubular rivets have a hollow body and are often used for pivot points, hinges and attachments subject to rotation. The tubular body collapses on itself during installation to fill the hole. This forms a tight fit that accommodates rotating or swinging motion between parts. The rivets are chemically treated to resist corrosion and wear at the bearing surface. Tubular rivets provide little clamping force, so they are not optimal for joints requiring static strength. Common applications include fastening hinges, latches, handles, control arms and any parts where a rotational joint is needed.
Pop Rivets
Pop rivets are one of the most widely used rivet types due to their speed and convenience. The pop rivet assembly consists of a rivet body and a stem with a break-off head. The user inserts the rivet in the hole and pulls on the stem with a hand-held tool. This causes the body to expand and form a second head, while the stem snaps off at a notch. Pop rivets are ideal for attaching trim, signs, wire wraps, insulation and hundreds of thin sheet metal fastening tasks. They come in a huge range of sizes, materials and grip lengths. Advanced pop rivet designs increase shear strength and improve vibration resistance.
Rivet Nuts
Rivet nuts provide sturdy threaded mounting points, especially in sheet materials too thin to properly tap. They insert through the underside and are deformed with an installation tool to create an integrated nut. Rivet nuts allow parts to be bolted on securely from the accessible side using standard screws and bolts. The large flange provides excellent load distribution and pull-out resistance. Rivet nuts are commonly used to attach brackets, running boards, trim panels and hardware on vehicles or appliances when welding is not feasible.
In summary, rivets are a versatile mechanical fastening solution with many advantages across manufacturing and construction. They combine speed of installation with good static strength and vibration resistance. With the variety of rivet styles and materials available, engineers can select the optimal riveting solution for any application. Proper joint design and installation technique are key factors in achieving a secure, reliable riveted connection. From aircraft wings to auto bodies to building frameworks, rivets deliver a dependable, cost-effective fastening technology. CNC Milling CNC Machining