Rivets: A Guide to Measurement and Application

Rivets are used in manufacturing and construction, quietly holding together countless structures, machines, and products. These small, unassuming fasteners play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and durability of various assemblies. From aerospace engineering to automotive manufacturing, rivets find application in diverse industries. However, despite their ubiquity, understanding rivets and their measurement might seem like a daunting task to the uninitiated. In this blog post, we delve into the world of rivets, exploring their types, applications, and most importantly, how to measure them accurately.

Rivets are mechanical fasteners used to permanently join two or more materials together. They work by creating a permanent mechanical connection between the materials through deformation. Typically, a rivet consists of a cylindrical shaft with a head on one end. When installed, the shaft is passed through pre-drilled holes in the materials to be joined, and the end of the shaft is deformed to form a second head, securing the materials in place.

Common Types of Rivets

1. Solid Rivets: These are the simplest type of rivets, consisting of a solid shaft and head. They are commonly used in applications where high strength and reliability are required, such as aircraft construction.
2. Blind Rivets (AKA Pop Rivets): Blind rivets are installed from one side of the object and do not require access to the opposite side. They are widely used in situations where only one side of the workpiece is accessible for installation.
3. Tubular Rivets: Tubular rivets are hollow and come in two main variations – semi-tubular and tubular. Semi-tubular rivets have a partially hollow shaft while tubular rivets have a completely hollow shaft. They are often used in applications where a watertight seal is required. They are commonly used in the manufacturing of machinery.
4. Split Rivets: Split rivets consist of a cylindrical shaft with a split end. These are commonly used in applications where the rivet needs to be installed quickly and securely, such as in the assembly of leather goods and luggage.

Measuring Rivets

Accurate measurement of rivets is essential to ensure proper fit and performance in the intended application. When measuring rivets, the following parameters are typically considered:

1. Diameter: The diameter of a rivet refers to the width of the shaft. This is a critical measurement as it determines the size of the pre-drilled hole required for installation.
2. Length: The length of a rivet is measured from the underside of the head to the end of the shaft. It determines how securely the materials will be joined together.
3. Head Style: Rivets come with different head styles, such as round, countersunk, and pan heads. The choice of head style depends on the specific requirements of the application.
4. Grip Range: For blind/POP rivets, the grip range refers to the maximum thickness of materials that can be joined together using the rivet.

Rivets may seem like simple fasteners, but their importance in various industries cannot be overstated. Proper measurement and selection of rivets are crucial to ensuring the integrity and reliability of the final assembly. Whether you’re building an aircraft, assembling automotive components, or crafting leather goods, understanding the intricacies of rivets and how to measure them accurately is essential for success. So, the next time you encounter a rivet, take a moment to appreciate its role in holding the world together. Check out the rivets that we have available online here!