Rivets are a type of permanent fastener that secure two objects together. As a fastening technique, joining parts using rivets has been used since ancient times. Rivets are commonly employed in machinery, transportation and aviation in the construction of bridges and buildings. In modern times, rivets are used to secure a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and wood.
The process of fastening objects together with a rivet is simple, but strong and reliable. It involves driving a specially shaped pin, called a rivet, through holes in the pieces of material to be joined. On the end of the rivet is a head, which provides extra stability to the joint.
In most scenarios, the head of the rivet is covered so that it is flush or countersunk into its mating surfaces. The end of the rivet is usually conditioned with a hard alloy, with pressure-fitted nuts and bolts applied to it, to ensure the rivet stays in place.
When bolting material together, the head of the rivet is hammered to deform and expand the end, out of the bore in which it passes. By applying pressure in this way the shank of the rivet is held into the hole of the two items. This ensures they are joined firmly.
The condition of the head of a rivet is very important, as it is what provides much of the strength of the joint. Rivets must be seated flush or countersunk against the mating surfaces, to provide even distribution of pressure and to ensure the best possible connection.
Rivets offer a number of advantages over other common fastening techniques, such as wormscrews, self-tapping screws and bolts. If correctly installed and maintained, rivets offer a reliable connection that can withstand rigorous use and harsh conditions.
Re-tensioning of the rivet is not required, and uniformed distribution of load can deliver a secure connection that is resistant to corrosion, vibration, shock and long-term wear. This makes rivets an ideal choice in challenging environments such as transportation and offshore industries and can provide effective, reliable and long-lasting fastenings solutions.
As well as being inherently strong, rivets can also be formed and moulded into unusual shapes which further strengthens their bond. The hardness and shape of the head of a rivet can greatly affect the overall integrity of the connection. Rivets with hard alloy heads are especially useful, as the alloy provides a greater surface area and better resistance to wear, vibration and shock.
Alloys can also be used to condition the surface of the head of a rivet, resultant in improved protection against corrosion and wear and tear.
In conclusion, using rivets to secure objects is an age-old method that is still employed in many industrial processes today. When selecting rivets for a particular project, an intelligent choice can have a big impact on the quality and integrity of the joint. By selecting rivets with a hard alloy head, then applying pressure with fitted nuts and bolts, it is possible to deliver a secure and reliable connection that is capable of withstanding the most rigorous of use in the harshest of conditions.
