Types of Rivets and Industry Uses

Rivets are used to join two or more parts together permanently. There are a few different types of rivets but all of them use a tail, which is a smooth cylindrical shaft, that gets placed in a hole to grip the two parts together. It is important to know what grip range you require. The grip is the total thickness of the two materials being joined together. Rivets are known for their reliability and durability which is why they are commonly used in construction, aviation and automotive.

Types of Rivets

Solid Rivets – Solid rivets are the most common type of rivet and are used in a variety of applications. They are made of a solid piece of metal and are inserted into a pre-drilled hole. They are then hammered or pressed down until the end of the rivet is flush with the surface of the material being fastened.

Blind Rivets – Blind rivets are used when the back of the material being fastened is not accessible. They consist of a mandrel, which is pulled through the body of the rivet, causing it to expand and fasten the two materials together. This type of rivet requires a specialized tool for installation.

Tubular Rivets – Tubular rivets are hollow and have a head at one end and a tail at the other. They are used in applications where the materials being fastened are soft and cannot withstand the pressure of solid rivets.

Drive Rivets – Drive rivets are similar to solid rivets, but they have a smaller head and are driven into place using a hammer or drill. They are commonly used in automotive and construction applications.

Industry Applications of Rivets

Construction – Rivets are commonly used in the construction industry to fasten steel and other metal structures together.

Automotive – Rivets are used in the automotive industry to fasten body panels, chassis components, and other parts together.

Aviation – Rivets are used in the aviation industry to fasten the skin of aircraft to the frame, as well as other components.

Marine – Rivets are used in the marine industry to fasten boat hulls and other components together.

Rivet Materials

The specific needs of the project will determine which material should be used. You must factor in the strength, corrosion resistance, conductivity, weight and of course, cost. The most common materials for rivets are steel or aluminum. Some rivets have different materials for the body and mandrel. For example, a blind rivet may have a steel mandrel with an aluminum body. The material options for rivets are listed below. Please note certain types of rivets may only be available in specific materials.

1. Steel – Steel is a popular material for rivets because it is strong, durable, and inexpensive for common sizes. Steel rivets are commonly used in construction, automotive, and industrial applications.
2. Aluminum – Aluminum rivets are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and have good conductivity. They are commonly used in the aerospace industry, as well as in the manufacturing of consumer products such as bicycles and sports equipment.
3. Copper – Copper rivets are used in applications where electrical conductivity is important, such as in the construction of electrical equipment or circuit boards.
4. Brass – Brass is a corrosion-resistant metal that is often used for decorative purposes in addition to its functional properties. Brass rivets are commonly used in the manufacture of furniture, clothing, and other consumer products.
5. Stainless Steel – Stainless steel rivets are highly resistant to corrosion and are often used in marine and industrial applications where exposure to harsh environments is a concern.
6. Titanium – Titanium rivets are strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for use in aerospace and other high-performance applications. This is a less common material which results in a higher price.

Overall, rivets are a reliable and durable type of fastener that are used in many applications across a variety of industries. Each type of rivet has a unique design, material, and use. Whether you are in the construction, automotive, aviation, or marine industry, rivets are an essential component for fastening materials together permanently.