Rivets - Technical explanation and application
What is riveting?
Riveting is a proven joining process that is traditionally used and is still widely used today. Riveting involves permanently joining two or more components, often sheet metal, together. The process usually begins with drilling or punching holes in the parts to be joined. A rivet is inserted through these holes and then fixed in place by forming - usually by expanding the rivet head - to create a stable connection.
Types of Riveting
There are different types of rivets that are used depending on the application:
- Solid rivets: The classic rivet that firmly joins both workpieces by forming. It offers very high stability and strength.
- Blind rivets: Ideal for applications where access is only possible from one side. Blind rivets are often used in hard-to-reach areas and still provide a reliable connection.
- Hollow rivet: These rivets have a hollow shank and are used where the mechanical requirements are not so high, for example in lighter structures.
Advantages of Riveting
High strength
Rivet connections are extremely resilient and can withstand high mechanical loads. This makes them particularly suitable for safety-critical applications.
Versatility
Rivets can be used for a variety of materials, including metals, plastics and even special applications such as leather.
Removability
Depending on the application, some rivet types can be removed and the connection renewed, which is particularly advantageous for repairs.
Corrosion resistant
Corrosion-resistant materials can be used in the riveting process so that the joints retain their durability and stability even in extreme environmental conditions.
An additional advantage of rivet connections is their ability to dampen vibrations and noise. This is particularly important in the automotive industry and for machinery, as rivets are able to absorb vibrations caused by mechanical loads. This reduces the noise level and extends the service life of the connected parts.
Fields of Application
Riveting is used in many industries as it provides an extremely reliable and durable connection. Typical fields of application include:
- Aerospace: In aircraft, all connections must withstand extreme loads and vibrations, which is why riveting is frequently used.
- Bridge construction: The high mechanical strength of riveted joints is utilized in load-bearing structures that require long service life and high safety standards.
- Automotive industry: Riveted connections are used in vehicle production where high strength and corrosion resistance are required.
- Mechanical engineering: In machines and equipment where precise and stable connections are critical, riveting is the preferred joining method.
Thus, riveting remains an indispensable joining process in modern manufacturing – flexible, reliable, and resilient.
Riveting Methods
There are various riveting methods, which differ in how the connections are made. The choice of method depends on factors such as material, accessibility, and load requirements.
Punch Riveting
In punch riveting, the hole for the rivet is created in a single operation along with inserting the rivet. It is a fast process, commonly used in mass production. The material is not pre-drilled but is directly deformed and punched by the rivet.
Press Riveting
In press riveting, the rivet is pressed into a pre-drilled hole using a punch. This method is particularly suitable for mass production, offering high precision and speed.
Cold Riveting
In cold riveting, the rivet is inserted and shaped into the workpieces without heating. This method is suitable for materials that can be easily deformed.
Hot Riveting
In this process, the rivet is heated before being shaped to make it easier to work with. This is especially necessary for thicker or harder materials that would otherwise be difficult to deform. learn more
Blind Riveting Method
Blind riveting requires access to only one side of the workpiece. This method is often used when the workpiece cannot be reopened or is inaccessible after the rivet is set. A special mandrel is pulled into the hollow rivet, causing the rivet shaft to break and deform, securing the connection.
Riveting Robots and Automated Riveting Systems
In modern manufacturing processes, robotic riveting systems are frequently used to automatically create rivet connections. These machines offer high precision and speed, making them particularly suitable for mass production, such as in the automotive or aerospace industries.
Riveting Robots and Automated Riveting Systems
Learn more about the innovative solutions from Gatzsch Schweißtechnik in the field of riveting robots and automated riveting systems – and discover how they can take your production processes to the next level! Contact us today for more information and to find out how we can support your business.
Riveting Components
Choosing the right fastening element – the rivet – is crucial for the stability and durability of the connection. Factors such as material, shape, and size play an important role.
Rivets
Rivets themselves are the most important fastening elements. They are often made from metals like aluminum, steel, or stainless steel. Brass or copper rivets are used for specific applications.
Riveting Tools
In addition to rivets, special tools are required for inserting and shaping them. These include rivet pliers, rivet presses, and punching tools. In automated production, robots take over this task.
Rivet Nuts
Rivet nuts are specialized fastening elements inserted into pre-drilled holes and then deformed to create a threaded hole in the workpiece. They are often used where a screw connection is needed but the material is too thin for a standard thread.
Rivet Bolts
These specialized bolts are typically used in combination with specific riveting tools to create exceptionally strong connections. They are commonly found in mechanical engineering and aerospace industries, where high mechanical stresses occur.
Riveting remains an indispensable fastening method in many industries. It offers high strength, versatility, and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for safety-critical applications such as aerospace, automotive, and mechanical engineering. Supported by modern riveting techniques and a wide range of fastening elements, riveting continues to be a flexible and efficient solution, playing a significant role even in automated manufacturing processes.
FAQs on Riveting
Riveting is a joining process in which two or more components are permanently connected. A rivet is inserted through pre-drilled holes in the components and fixed by plastic deformation. It creates a form-fitting and force-locking connection.
There are various types of rivets, which differ depending on the application:
- Solid rivets: Solid rivet in which the rivet shank is tightened by deformation.
- Hollow rivets: Have a hollow shank and are lighter than solid rivets.
- Blind rivets: Can be set from only one side of the component, ideal for hard-to-reach areas.
- Pop rivets: A form of blind riveting in which a mandrel stretches and fixes the material.
- High load-bearing capacity: Rivets provide stable and durable connections, even under extreme conditions.
- No heat exposure: In contrast to welding, no thermal deformation occurs.
- No pre- or post-treatment required: The parts do not need to be treated before or after the riveting process.
With classic riveting, you must have access to both sides of the component in order to set the rivet. With blind riveting, access is only required from one side, which makes it particularly useful in hard-to-reach areas.
Almost all materials can be riveted. Metals such as steel, aluminum and copper are most commonly used. However, plastics or leather can also be riveted, depending on the rivet type and application.
- Manual riveting pliers: For smaller rivet joints, such as blind or pop rivets.
- Hydraulic or pneumatic riveting tools: For larger rivets or in industrial applications.
- Riveting machines: Are often used in series production.
Yes, rivets can be removed by drilling or hammering through. However, it should be noted that the components may be damaged in the process.
- Material: The rivet should be made of a similar material to the parts to be joined in order to avoid corrosion.
- Size: The diameter of the rivet must match the diameter of the hole.
- Load: The appropriate rivet type must be selected depending on the load on the joint.