rivetting

Rivetting is a method of permanently joining two or more pieces of material, typically metal, by inserting a rivet through aligned holes and deforming the rivet shank to form a second head on the far side. The resulting joint relies on the clamping force produced by the expanded rivet and is commonly used where welding or threaded fasteners are impractical or undesirable.

There are several rivet types. Solid rivets consist of a shaft with a fixed head; after insertion, the tail is deformed to form the second head. Blind rivets have a mandrel that is pulled from the accessible side to expand the body and seal the joint. Tubular and semi-tubular rivets provide alternatives for specific load paths and thicknesses. Flush rivets are designed for low-profile assemblies.

Installation methods vary by rivet type. Solid riveting requires access to both sides and uses a rivet gun or hammer and bucking bar to upset the tail. Blind riveting works from one side with a rivet gun; the mandrel is pulled to form the second head and seal the joint. Hot riveting heats rivets and members to improve ductility for larger joints.

Rivets are made from steel, aluminum, copper, and titanium, chosen to match strength, weight, and corrosion resistance. The practice has a long history in shipbuilding, bridges, and aerospace, where reliable joints are critical and welding may be impractical. Modern manufacturing uses rivets in maintenance or in assemblies where disassembly is required.

Advantages include high shear strength, simplicity, and the ability to join dissimilar materials. Disadvantages include permanent joints, potential corrosion, and the need for precise hole sizing and alignment. Standards and methods are governed by industrial codes and organizations such as ASTM and ISO, with requirements varying by application.