Rivets | How Does Riveting Work?

Riveting is a cold deformation process used for rigid or movable joining of parts through another element that passes through and secures them, called a rivet.

The rivet is inserted through the holes in the material of the overlapped workpiece during the riveting process, and the rivet side is deformed to create a solid joint. When the rivet is placed into the hole, the rivet tail must be deformed using a rivet gun so that it expands and holds firmly in place.

Rivets are used in a wide range of projects, including airplanes, structural beams, electronic components, military equipment, furniture, software, sheet metals, and more. Many riveting machines are designed for manufacturing lines, enabling faster turnaround times and a higher level of automation.

A rivet is a type of mechanical fastener that attaches to the adjacent surfaces of components. Its fundamental principle is that the rivet acts as a single component, with both ends securing each piece of metal.

Riveting is semi-permanent, meaning that although it is designed to last a long time, it can be disassembled if needed.

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Basic description of how riveting works

• Preparation of parts: Before riveting, the pieces to be joined must be drilled to create holes for the rivet to pass through. These holes must be of the appropriate size for a proper fit.
• Insertion of the rivet: The rivet consists of a shaft and a head. The rivet shaft is inserted through the holes of the pieces to be joined.
• Rivet formation: The end of the rivet shaft that protrudes is shaped using a specialized tool, such as a riveter. The head is formed by deforming the end of the shaft, creating a larger head that prevents the rivet from slipping out.
• Securing the pieces: The rivet head creates a larger surface on the opposite side of the pieces, securely fastening them together. The rivet acts as a bolt, holding the pieces in place and distributing the load across its surface.

There are several types of rivets, and the exact riveting method can vary depending on the design and materials used. Additionally, some rivets require heat for installation, such as heat rivets used in the aerospace industry.

Riveting is a durable and reliable process, but in some modern applications, it has been partly replaced by other joining techniques such as stud welding and structural adhesives. However, riveting remains an important technique in many industries due to its simplicity and strength.

Advantages of rivets

• Rivets are more cost-effective compared to welding.
• Riveting can be performed in any position or location.
• The shear strength and fatigue resistance achieved are exceptionally high.
• Removing a rivet causes less damage compared to removing a welded joint.
• Some rivets provide resistance to environmental and chemical corrosion.
• No substantial damage occurs to protective coatings on the joined parts.
• It can be used for ferrous, non-ferrous, and even non-metallic joints.

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Disadvantages of rivets

• Riveting takes considerable time and requires extensive labor.
• The pieces to be joined must overlap or require a cover plate.
• Pre-drilling of holes is required.
• A non-watertight joint is created.
• Rivets increase weight, while holes reduce stability.
• Riveted joints are larger than welded connections.

Bolts are temporary joints designed to be replaced over time, such as in car bumpers that absorb impacts.

Quick Questions

• Which is better, welding or riveting?
  Both methods of joining have advantages and disadvantages, and the final decision should be based on the specific application and project requirements. Welded connections are simpler in design and require fewer parts and materials. However, welds contract and are more expensive and difficult to maintain. The Eiffel Tower, built in the 19th century using rivets, still stands today with minimal maintenance and occasional repainting.
• When is riveting an appropriate joining method?
  Riveting is appropriate when strong and durable but also reversible connections are needed, where installation simplicity, removability, and aesthetics are essential. In some applications, welding, structural adhesives, or even mixed methods may be more appropriate.

  The choice of the joining method should consider project specifications, performance requirements, and practical manufacturing considerations.

• How to choose the right rivet?
  Choosing the right rivet involves considering several factors, such as the application type, materials to be joined, strength and durability requirements, and environmental conditions. As a general rule, the rivet diameter should be at least three times greater than the thickness of the thickest sheet being joined.

Bearcat

Con más de 40 años de experiencia en el sector de la soldadura y las técnicas de unión Bearcat extiende sus conocimientos a todos los sectores industriales: automoción, ingeniería de ferrocarriles, ingeniería industrial, industria naval, obra civil.