Uses for Rivets in Manufacturing and Construction(machining quotes Fabian)
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Rivets have been used since ancient times to join materials together. Originally made of metals like copper, iron and silver, modern rivets are manufactured from aluminum, steel, titanium and specialty alloys. Rivets provide a reliable, permanent and vibration-resistant fastening method. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Here are some of the main uses for rivets in industry and building applications.
Aircraft and Aerospace Applications
Rivets are extensively used in the aircraft and aerospace industries. Aluminum and titanium rivets are the preferred choice for airplane and spacecraft construction because of their light weight, strength and corrosion resistance. Rivets provide a strong, reliable fastening method for joining aluminum sheets and frames in airplane fuselages, wings and other components. The head of the rivet is flushed into the structure providing a smooth aerodynamic surface.
Rivets are also used throughout the interior of aircraft for joining seats, galleys, floor panels and other fittings. Specialty flush head rivets are used in these applications. Aerospace vehicles like rockets, satellites and space stations also make abundant use of rivets in their outer skin and internal structure. The reliable clamping force and vibration resistance of rivets make them ideally suited for aerospace environments.
Metal Fabrication and Machinery
In industrial machinery and metal fabrication, rivets provide a simple and economical fastening method. Steel rivets are commonly used to assemble heavy machinery, farm equipment, pumps, gears, cranes and factory equipment. Rivets provide a rigid connection that can withstand vibration and shock loads better than many other fastener types.
Rivets are commonly used for joining sheet metal cabinets, enclosures and housings. The production process is highly automated using self-punching rivets and automatic riveting machines. Aluminum and steel rivets maintain strong connections even when parts undergo flexing. This makes rivets well-suited for products that are subject to twisting or vibration forces.
Structural Steel Construction
Structural steel builders rely heavily on rivets to assemble beams, columns, trusses, bridges and framing. Steel rivets provide a reliable, permanent fastening method for joining I-beams, gusset plates, braces and corners in heavy structures. The railroad industry also uses enormous numbers of rivets in assembling railroad tracks, railcars and locomotives.
The hot riveting process welds the rivet into a single strong piece that is ideal for steel frame construction. The manual hot riveting process has largely been replaced by automated pneumatic tools and high strength structural epoxy bolts. However, steel rivets continue to be used extensively in demanding structural applications where vibration resistance is critical.
Shipbuilding and Offshore Platforms
Ships, barges and offshore drilling platforms require large numbers of reliable fasteners able to withstand exposure to saltwater corrosion. Steel rivets provide high clamping force and vibration resistance in the single piece construction method ideal for marine applications. Rivets are used throughout the shipbuilding industry in assembling sheet metal hulls, bulkheads, decks and cargo areas. Offshore oil platforms and port structures also rely on corrosion-resistant structural rivets.
Automotive Industry
Automotive plants make extensive use of rivets at various points in the manufacturing process. Self-piercing rivets are used for joining stamped sheet metal auto body parts such as doors, hoods and trunk lids. Rivets provide a fast, automated joining process. Specialty rivets are also designed for plastic car components and interior trim.
Mechanical automated riveting is preferred for auto assembly because of its speed and efficiency. Robotic riveting work cells can install up to several thousand rivets per hour. Rivets also accommodate flexibility in car body design better than welding which requires uninterrupted joints. The auto industry relies on the strength and vibration resistance of rivets for durable vehicle construction.
Appliances and Electronics
The appliance manufacturing industry utilizes rivets at many stages of production. Sheet metal stove, refrigerator and dishwasher cabinets and frames are assembled with rivets for fast production and reduced noise. Aluminum and steel rivets provide solid, permanent fastening of panels and parts that must endure vibration and movement over long periods of use.
Electronics enclosures, chassis and housings also utilize rivets for assembly and fastening of components. The precision clamping force and flush rivet heads are valued in electronics fabrication. Automated rivet setting machines produce very consistent results during high volume production. This helps lower costs while maintaining product quality.
Construction and Hardware
The building construction trade makes extensive use of rivets for assembling framing, roofing, siding, gutters and various structural components. One of the most common applications is hanging ductwork with metal straps joined by rivets. Riveting sheet metal is also faster than welding or bolting in many cases.
Blind rivets and pop rivets allow easy riveting in place for installation and repair work. Hardware stores stock an assortment of rivets suited for DIY home projects and construction. Some common applications include attaching plates, braces, brackets, panels, covers and trim pieces. Rivets come in a range of materials and finishes for interior and exterior use.
In summary, rivets serve an important role in manufacturing and construction across a broad range of industries. The versatility, strength and quick installation of rivets make them a preferred choice for permanent and reliable fastening. Continuing advances in automated riveting systems improve quality control and lower costs for high volume applications. Rivets will continue to be a key fastening technology moving forward. CNC Milling
