What is Types of Rivets: Working Process, Uses,Materials and Application

What is Rivets?

Rivets are fasteners that are used to join two or more pieces of material together. They are typically made from metal, and they are inserted into pre-drilled holes in the materials to be joined.

How do rivets works?

Rivets work by creating a mechanical connection between the materials to be joined. The rivet is inserted into a pre-drilled hole, and then the end of the rivet is hammered or pressed until it expands and creates a tight fit. This forms a strong connection that can resist tensile and shear forces.

The Materials of Rivets

Rivets are typically made from metals, such as aluminum, brass,iron, or steel. However, they can also be made from other materials, such as plastic or even wood. The choice of material depends on the application and the strength requirements of the joint.

#1 Aluminum Rivets

Aluminum rivets are a popular choice for many applications because they are strong and lightweight. They are also resistant to corrosion, which makes them ideal for outdoor use. Aluminum rivets are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, and they can be used with a wide range of materials.

#2 Brass Rivets

Brass rivets are a strong and durable option for joining materials. the common half-round head rivet, flat head rivet, countersunk head rivet, half-hollow rivet, solid rivet, child and female rivet, step rivet and so on.

#3 Stainless Steel Rivets

Stainless steel rivets are made of a type of steel that contains chromium, Stainless steel commonly used to make half round head rivet, flat head rivet, countersunk head rivet, pull core rivet, hollow rivet, half hollow rivet. These are usually riveted pieces using self-deforming connections. (generally less than 8 mm with cold riveting, greater than the use of hot riveting.)

#4 Iron Rivets
Iron rivets, also called wrought iron rivets, are made of low carbon steel. They are harder and more brittle than other types of rivets, but they are also more resistant to corrosion. Iron rivets are typically used in applications where strength and resistance to corrosion are important. The great advantage of iron nails is that they are cheap.

#5 copper rivets

Copper is a soft materials, Copper rivets are made of a soft metal that is easy to shape and mold. Copper rivets are typically used in applications where a strong connection is not required. Copper rivets are easier to shape and mold than other types of rivets.

The surface finishes of rivets

The surface finishes of metal rivets are important for several reasons:

Aesthetics
Corrosion resistance
Adhesion
The three most common types of surface finishes for metal rivets are:

Plain: Plain rivets have a smooth surface with no coating. They are the cheapest option and are typically used in applications where corrosion resistance is not a concern.

Zinc: Zinc rivets have a zinc coating that provides excellent corrosion resistance. They are more expensive than plain rivets, but they are worth the extra cost in applications where corrosion resistance is a concern.

Stainless steel: Stainless steel rivets have a stainless steel coating that provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability. They are the most expensive option, but they are worth the extra cost in applications where corrosion resistance and durability are a concern.

Plating: Plating is a process in which a metal coating is applied to the surface of the rivet. Plating can be used for aesthetic or functional purposes. Common types of plating include zinc, nickel, and chrome.

Painted: Painted rivets have a paint coating that provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability. They are more expensive than plain or zinc-coated rivets, but they are worth the extra cost in applications where corrosion resistance and durability are a concern.

Rivet installation methods
There are two main types of rivet installation methods:

Hammering: Hammering is the most common type of rivet installation method. It is quick and easy, and does not require any special equipment. However, it can be difficult to achieve a tight fit with this method.

Pressing: Pressing is the other type of rivet installation method. It requires special equipment(rivet gun, setter), but it is very quick and easy to use. This method is typically used in applications where a tight fit is required.

The type of rivet installation method that you use will depend on your application and your equipment.

 Types of Rivets

There are many different types of rivets, and each one has its own unique purpose. Here are some of the most common types of rivets:

#1 Flat head rivet

Flat head rivets are the most common type of rivet. They have a flat head that sits flush with the surface of the material, making them ideal for applications where a smooth finish is desired.

#2 Tubular Rivet

Tubular rivet are hollow rivets with a cylindrical body. They are typically made from aluminum or steel, and they can be used in a variety of applications.

Semi tubular rivets: These rivets have a partially hollow center, which makes them stronger than hollow rivets. However, they are not as strong as solid rivets.

#3 Solid Rivet

Solid rivets are made from a single piece of material, typically steel or aluminum. They are strong and durable, making them ideal for applications that require a strong joint.

#4 Blind Rive

A blind rivet is a type of fastener that joins two pieces of metal together. It is similar to a bolt, but it does not require a nut to secure it in place. Blind rivets are often used in sheet metal work, because they are very strong and can be installed quickly.They are typically made from aluminum or steel, and they can be used in a wide range of applications.

Pop rivets is similar to a blind rivet. However, pop rivets have a hollow center, which allows them to be used in applications where blind rivets cannot. Pop rivets are often used in aircraft and automotive applications.

#5 Split Rivets

Split rivets are fasteners that are used to join two pieces of material together. They have a split shaft that allows them to be inserted into a hole without the need for a pre-drilled hole.

#6 Drive Rivets

Drive rivets are fasteners that are used to join two pieces of material together. They have a pointed end that is inserted into a hole, and then the end is hammered or pressed until the rivet expands and creates a tight fit.

#7 Flush Rivets

Flush rivets are fasteners that have a flat head that sits flush with the surface of the material.

Flush rivets are used for the outer surface, and countersunk head rivets are also used to ensure good appearance and eliminate aerodynamic drag.

#8 Countersunk rivets

Countersunk head rivet is a part that connects the riveted parts by its own deformation or interference in riveting. Countersunk rivets are installed using a special tool called a setter. The setter squeezes the countersunk rivet closed, which causes the two pieces of metal to be joined together.

Countersunk rivets are very strong and can be used in a variety of applications. Countersunk head rivets are widely used in automobiles, vehicles, mechanical and electrical products, building decoration and household appliances. Used for low strength requirements, thread diameter less than 10MM, screw into and tighten the occasion.

#9 Friction lock rivet
Friction lock rivets are a type of fastener that is similar to a blind rivet. However, friction lock rivets have a special locking mechanism that prevents the rivet from coming undone. Friction lock rivets are often used in applications where a high level of security is desired.

#10 Drive pin rivets

Drive pin rivets have a sharp point at the end, which allows them to be driven into hard material. Drive pin rivets are installed using a special tool called a setter. The setter squeezes the drive pin rivet closed, which causes the two pieces of metal to be joined together.

#11 Self piercing rivets

Self piercing rivets (SPR) are a type of rivet that is specifically designed to pierce through materials without the need for a pilot hole. This makes them ideal for use in applications where pilot holes would be difficult or impossible to create, such as with certain types of metals or plastics. SPRs are available in a variety of sizes and materials, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

#12 Bifurcated rivets
Bifurcated rivets (also called split rivets) are a type of rivet that has two legs that split in the middle, forming a “Y” shape. These rivets are often used in applications where it is important to have a secure connection, but where the materials being joined cannot be pierced.

Rivets Applications
There are many different types of rivets available on the market, each with its own unique benefits and applications.

Automotive manufacturing: Rivets are often used in the automotive industry to join together metal parts. They are especially useful in this application because they can be easily removed and replaced if necessary.

Construction: Rivets are commonly used in construction to fasten together metal beams and other structural elements.

Shipbuilding: Rivets have been used in shipbuilding for centuries. They are still used today to join together the metal plates that make up the hull of a ship.

Bags & clothing: Rivets can also be used to fasten together bags and clothing. They are often used in leather goods such as belts and wallets.

Furniture: Rivets are sometimes used in furniture construction, especially in metal furniture.

Jewelry: Rivets are sometimes used in the construction of jewelry.

How to choose the right rivet for your project?

When choosing a rivet, there are several things to consider, such as the type of joint, the materials being joined, the environment, and the load requirements. Here are some tips to help you choose the right rivet for your project:

#1. The first thing to consider is the type of joint that you need to create. There are three main types of joints:
Permanent joint: A permanent joint is a joint that is designed to be strong and durable. It is typically used in applications where the load requirements are high, such as in structural applications.

Semi-permanent joint: A semi-permanent joint is a joint that is designed to be strong, but not as strong as a permanent joint. It is typically used in applications where the load requirements are moderate, such as in electronic applications.

Temporary joint: A temporary joint is a joint that is designed to be weak and easy to break. It is typically used in applications where the load requirements are low, such as in Non-Structural applications.

#2. The next thing to consider is the materials being joined. There are three main types of materials:
Metals: Metals are strong and durable, making them ideal for applications that require a strong joint.

Plastics: Plastics are lightweight and easy to work with, making them ideal for applications that require a light-duty joint.

Composites: Composites are a combination of both metals and plastics, making them ideal for applications that require a strong and lightweight joint.

#3. The next thing to consider is the environment. There are three main types of environments:
Indoor: Indoor environments are typically clean and dry, making them ideal for applications that require a clean and dry joint.

Outdoor: Outdoor environments can be either wet or dry, making them ideal for applications that require a wet or dry joint.

Corrosive: Corrosive environments are those that contain chemicals that can corrode metal, making them ideal for applications that require a corrosion-resistant joint.

#4. The last thing to consider is the load requirements. There are three main types of load requirements:
Shear: Shear loads are those that act parallel to the surface of the material, making them ideal for applications that require a strong shear resistance.

Tension: Tension loads are those that act perpendicular to the surface of the material, making them ideal for applications that require a strong tension resistance.

Compression: Compression loads are those that act perpendicular to the surface of the material, making them ideal for applications that require a strong compression resistance.

Conclusion

Rivets are fasteners that are used to join two or more pieces of material together. There are several things to consider when choosing a rivet for your project, such as the type of joint, the materials being joined, the environment, and the load requirements. By following these tips, you can be sure to choose the right rivet for your project.