What is a Rivet?: Everything you Need to Know
Whether you’re new to the construction industry or you’re a DIY enthusiast, understanding every tool and component will come in handy for your next project.
Rivets are a beneficial tool in construction. These popular fixings allow you to join two materials together, which is handy for both small and large applications.
So, what are they used for, exactly, and why are they so common? Today, eFxings will discuss everything you need to know about rivets, including their design, benefits, and uses.
What is a Rivet?
A rivet is a permanent mechanical device used to join large structural components or small electronic components.
Rivets are often used to join different types of metal, commonly used in ancient shipbuilding and modern aircraft assembly. They feature a pin-like fastener that clamps down to bind different materials together.
How do Rivets Work?
A pre-drilled hole is created in both materials, into which the rivet is then placed to combine them.
Once inserted, a rivet gun is then used to pull the shaft of the rivet to expand and flatten its tail end. This process, also known as 'upsetting,’ creates a secondary head, clamping the materials together.
The Different Types of Rivets
Like many things, rivets come in various shapes and sizes, designed for different applications.
Understanding the applications and uses of each type can help you make the best choice for your project. Some of the most common rivets include:
Solid rivets
Solid rivets, or round rivets, are the most versatile and, therefore, the most commonly used in construction.
These offer excellent strength and durability, ideal for heavy loads such as bridge building, ship construction, and frameworks. However, these require access to both sides of the material being joined, as the tail end needs to be deformed when installed for secure fastening.
Blind rivets
Blind rivets, also known as pop rivets, are ideal for applications where access to only one side of the material is granted.
They consist of a mandrel drawn through the tubular rivet during installation. This action expands the rivet, joining the components together. Once the rivet has set, the mandrel pops off, providing a clean finish.
Blind rivets are best used for applications with sheet metal work, construction, and household appliances when access to the backside of the material is restricted.
Semi-tubular rivets
Semi-tubular rivets, also known as hollow rivets, are more prone to distorting during installation due to the partial hole at the tail end.
This makes them suitable for applications involving plastic, leather, or fabric, as less force is needed to set the rivet. Due to this, they’re commonly found in applications like electronics, furniture, and clothing manufacturing, where a secure but lightweight fastening is needed.
What are the Benefits of Rivets?
With their many advantages, rivets are a time-tested fastening solution, perfect for both professional and DIY projects.
Some of the key benefits include:
- Lightweight design: Rivets are extremely lightweight, especially when made from aluminium. This makes them beneficial in applications where weight is a concern, such as in the automotive or aviation industries.
- Strong and durable: In contrast to fasteners like screws or bolts, which can become loose with continuous usage or vibration, rivets stay intact and are difficult to undo. This makes them perfect for high-stress applications.
- Easy to install: Simple tools, such as a rivet gun, can be used to install rivets. Blind rivets, in particular, are made for easy application, as they only need access to one side of the material.
- Cost-effective: Rivets can significantly lower your project expenses. They are also low-cost and easy to install and offer great quality and strength.
- Permanent solution: Rivets can only be removed with specialised tools, making them a robust fastening. This tamper-proof component is especially beneficial when used for the construction of bridges, pipelines, and other infrastructure projects.
Choose Efxings for High-Quality Rivets
When it comes to fastening solutions, quality matters.
At eFixings, we offer a wide range of rivetsdesigned for various applications. These are ideal for both professionals and DIY applications and offer unmatched versatility.
From blind rivets to semi-tubular rivets, we’ve got everything you need for a lasting solution.