What Are Rivets and How Do They Work?

Rivets are a common form of fastener that find use in various industries, including construction, automotive, and aerospace, to join materials together securely. These mechanical fasteners are known for their durability and ability to permanently hold materials in place without requiring welding or adhesives, which makes them quite beneficial for a number of assemblies. In this blog, we will provide a brief overview of what rivets are and how they work to provide valuable insights into their applications and benefits.

While coming in different forms based on the type, the most basic rivets consist of a smooth, cylindrical shaft with a head on one end. The installation process for these tubular rivet components involves inserting the fastener into a pre-drilled hole in the materials to be joined. Once in place, the tail end of the rivet is deformed with the help of tools, creating a second head that holds the materials together. This deformation process, known as riveting, ensures a tight and secure bond that can withstand significant stress and strain.

One of the most common types of rivets is the solid rivet, which is made from a single piece of metal and is widely used in applications where strength and reliability are crucial. To install a solid rivet, the tail end is hammered or pressed to form a head, effectively clamping the materials together until the rivet is broken. Solid rivets are often found in the construction of bridges, aircraft, and heavy machinery, where they provide robust and long-lasting joints that are very tamper-proof.

Another popular type of rivet is the blind rivet, which is also commonly known as a pop rivet for branding. Blind rivets are designed for applications where only one side of the joint is accessible, making them ideal for situations where traditional riveting methods are impractical. Differing from solid rivets, blind rivets consist of a hollow shaft with a mandrel running through the center. During installation, the blind rivet is placed in the hole before the mandrel is pulled through the shaft, causing the tail end to expand and form a head. The mandrel is then snapped off, leaving a secure joint. Blind rivets are commonly used in automotive and aerospace industries, as well as in household appliances and electronic devices.

Split rivets are another type of rivet that features a shaft with a split or slit. These rivets are designed to be self-piercing, meaning they can be driven through materials without pre-drilling a hole. When the split rivet is hammered or pressed into place, the divided sections of the shaft spread apart, forming a head and securely fastening the materials. Split rivets are particularly useful for joining soft materials, making them frequently used in the manufacturing of clothing, bags, and accessories.

Depending on the type of rivet one is using, installation may require the use of specific tools and equipment. For solid rivets, tools such as hammers, rivet sets, and pneumatic rivet guns are commonly used to deform the tail end of the rivet and form a secure joint. Blind rivets, on the other hand, require specialized rivet guns or pullers that can pull the mandrel through the shaft and break it off cleanly. Because of the major differences in how each type is installed, one should always be sure that they have the right tools on hand to get the job done.

Rivets offer several advantages over other fastening methods, such as their strength and reliability. Riveted joints are known for their ability to withstand heavy loads and vibrations, making them suitable for applications where safety and durability are vital. Rivets also provide a permanent fastening solution that does not loosen over time, unlike screws or bolts. Additionally, rivets distribute the load evenly across the joint, reducing the risk of material fatigue and failure.

In conclusion, rivets are essential mechanical fasteners used to join materials securely in various applications. Understanding the common types of rivets, such as solid rivets, blind rivets, and split rivets, helps in selecting the appropriate type for specific needs. Whether used in construction, automotive, aerospace, or other industries, rivets play a crucial role in ensuring the structural integrity and durability of assemblies.

Owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, Broadline Fasteners is a leading purchasing platform for those seeking competitive procurement solutions on all desired fasteners and hardware. Whether you require new, used, obsolete, or hard-to-find options, our selection is unrivaled with over 2 billion items ready for purchase. We encourage you to explore our website at your leisure, and upon coming across products of interest, always be sure to request quotes with our online service. Those who would like to get in touch with staff for any inquiries or requests can call or email at any time, as we are available around the clock for service. Experience all that we have to offer today when you take the first step of procurement on Broadline Fasteners.