Rivets: A Fastener That Does Much More Than You Think(custom cnc Bella)
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In Manufacturing and Construction
Rivets are extensively used in manufacturing and construction for assembling metal parts and structures. Their ability to join metals while allowing some flexibility makes them ideal for these applications.
Aircraft - Rivets are the preferred fastener in aircraft construction. The fuselage, wings, and other components are assembled using thousands of rivets. They can withstand vibration and extreme temperature changes experienced during flights. Different types of rivets like solid, blind, and drive rivets are used in aircraft building.
Bridges - Structural steel girders used in bridges are joined together using high-strength structural rivets. They form strong, rigid connections between bridge components. Riveting provides vibration resistance critical for bridge safety.
Ships - Marine grade rivets withstand saltwater corrosion and are ideal for shipbuilding. The hulls of ships, boats, offshore platforms etc. are riveted for structural integrity. Large head rivets are commonly used for better grip and load distribution.
Cranes - The fabrication of crane booms, pillars, cross-braces and other parts involves extensive riveting. Rivets allow some flexibility to prevent metal fatigue induced failures. High strength rivets withstand enormous loads experienced during crane operations.
In Consumer Products
The versatility and reliability of rivets also make them useful for assembling many popular consumer products we use in daily life.
Jeans - Rivets reinforce stress points like pocket corners in jeans and jackets. This prevents tears and detachment from frequent use. Rivets on jeans are more of a design element today but serve a functional purpose. The copper rivets maintain conductivity to prevent static charge buildup.
Backpacks - Nylon and canvas backpacks use rivets to connect straps, reinforce seams and attach components like buckles. This provides strength to carry heavy loads. Rivets don't damage the fabric unlike sewing. Plastic backings stop the rivets from poking through.
Outdoor gear - Rivets assemble hiking boots, tents, outdoor furniture etc. They don't loosen or fall off like screws when subjected to vibrations during treks or windy conditions. Rivets also add to the aesthetics with their attractive domed heads.
Hardware - Drawers, cabinets, electronic enclosures use rivets for low cost, expedient assembly. The reusable nature of rivets allows non-destructive disassembly for repairs or modifications. Pop rivets are ideal for assembling sheet metal hardware cases.
In Repairs and Maintenance
The instant fixing provided by rivets also makes them invaluable for repairs and maintenance across many equipment.
Vehicles - Rivets are commonly used to replace worn out, rusted or damaged screws and bolts on vehicle bodies and frames. The riveting process is faster than nuts/bolts and provides a more durable repair. Pop rivets allow easy riveting for DIY repairs.
Appliances - Mechanics often use rivets while repairing appliances like washers when original fasteners are not available. Rivets substitute odd sized screws on stove parts, electric motors etc. They provide a quick fix and durable replacement.
Machinery - Missing or worn out screws on industrial machinery can lead to breakdowns. Riveting vital joints and linkages provides an instant repair solution. Rivets also replace temporary fasteners used during machinery assembly or repairs.
Piping - Plumbers rely on using rivets for sealing leakages and reconnecting broken pipes, flanges. The head of the rivet compresses the material being joined to create a water-tight seal. Stainless steel rivets provide corrosion resistance too.
Innovation in Rivet Technology
With growing applications, rivets continue to evolve in terms of materials, design and installation methods.
- New super alloys like titanium, nickel and aluminum are being used to make lightweight but strong rivets for aircraft, racing cars etc. Coatings like Teflon further reduce friction and improve performance.
- Self-piercing rivets cut through the material being joined during installation - eliminating the need for pre-drilled holes. This improves efficiency in mass production.
- Breakmand rivets feature a pre-weakened shank that snaps off automatically at a preset tension. This ensures uniform clamping force for reliable joints.
- Specialized power tools enable quick and consistent setting of hundreds of rivets in factories. Automated robotic arms can install rivets in hard-to-reach areas with precision.
- Innovations like stave rivets and multi-grip rivets simplify installation in composite materials. This expands rivet applications in the automotive and construction industry.
The modest yet mighty rivet has come a long way from ancient civilizations to modern day technology. With continuous advancements in materials, design and processes - rivets will continue playing a pivotal role across numerous applications in the future. Their versatile nature and reliability make rivets the preferred choice for assembling, repairing and innovating all kinds of products and structures around us. CNC Milling
