In the realm of construction and manufacturing, where strength and durability are paramount, structural rivets stand out as a reliable fastening solution. These specialised fasteners play a crucial role in joining materials where high load-bearing capacity and resistance to vibration and fatigue are essential. This blog explores what structural rivets are, how they work, their applications across industries, and why they are preferred for critical structural assemblies.
What are Structural Rivets?
Structural rivets are high-strength blind rivets designed to create permanent and vibration-resistant joints between multiple materials. Structural rivets are engineered to withstand high shear and tensile loads. They are often but not always used where access is only possible from one side of the assembly surface. Easy, consistent and high-speed installation using appropriate tooling makes structural rivets the go-to fastener for various applications.
How Do Structural Rivets Work?
Structural rivets work like conventional pop rivets; however, certain design features allow these fasteners to out perform other fastener choices in many applications. Follow the steps below to successfully install these rivets.
- Creating a hole, whether by drilling, laser cutting, or punching, is crucial. The size of the hole is a key factor in ensuring the rivet's performance and successful installation. Each of Rivetlabโs products has a comprehensive data sheet that specifies the appropriate hole size for each rivet.
- Place the rivet in the nose tip of a suitable tool. Structural rivet guns have higher pulling force than normal rivet tools. The Gesipa Taurus 3 air rivet gun or Gesipa Powerbird Pro Gold cordless rivet gun are both excellent choices for structural rivets.
- Position the rivet in the hole of the materials being joined, pull the trigger and presto! You have created a high-strength, secure joint.
There are many types of structural rivets available. Which one should you use?
Different styles of structural rivets have advantages over others in some applications, and some may work well in multiple scenarios.
- Rivlokยฎ, an alternative to Huck Magnalokยฎ rivets, comes in a variety of materials and has a wide โgrip rangeโ, meaning one rivet can work with a variety of material thicknesses. The mandrel in these rivets is designed to break flush with the dome head of the rivet, giving it excellent shear strength properties and a neat appearance. Some other examples of this style or rivet include Hucklokยฎ, Monoboltยฎ and Interlockยฎ.
- Bulblokยฎ, similar to Orlockยฎ and Huck Magna-bulbยฎ has a more limited grip range. However, the blind side of the rivet forms into a neat, low-profile bulb, creating a significant surface area. These rivets are great for increasing pull-out or tensile strength between materials. They are also an excellent choice for joining thin materials as the bulb formed distributes the load.
- Bulb Tite rivets were originally developed for construction applications such as assembling Butler building frames. They were also adapted by fitting an EPDM washer under the head for increased water resistance in roofing applications. In recent years, they have become the preferred choice for installing safety roof anchor points, walkways and ladder systems. Bulbtite rivets are a type of tri-fold rivet. Precise slots along the eyelet of the rivet allow it to form into three legs, helping it clamp up into thin roof sheets such as Colorbond and Lysaght.
Applications of Structural Rivets
Structural rivets find extensive use in various industries, including:
- Construction: Joining architectural facades, sunshades, window frames and balustrades.
- Transportation: Assembling vehicles, truck trailers, bus and railway components.
- Manufacturing: Assembly of machinery and equipment where high-strength connections are crucial.
- Aerospace: Fastening aircraft components that require lightweight yet robust joints. Boeing and Airbus jets use a huge number of structural rivets to assemble fuselages and wings. Structural rivets are even used in the assembly of ULD cargo containers.
- Marine: Securing components such as mast and spars in marine vessels subjected to harsh conditions.
- Infrastructure: Fitting of fences and guard rails in metro tunnelling projects. Structural rivets are also used to assemble fan and ventilation systems in metro tunnels, underground rail and high-rise buildings.
Advantages of Using Structural Rivets
- Strength and Reliability: Provide solid and permanent joints capable of withstanding high loads and stresses.
- Ease of Installation: Enable fast and efficient installation with minimal training. โข Versatility: Suitable for joining a wide range of materials, including metals, composites, and plastics.
- Vibration Resistance: Maintain integrity under constant vibration and dynamic loads.
- Cost Efficiency: Offer a cost-effective alternative to welding and bolting for many applications.
Choosing the Right Structural Rivet
When selecting structural rivets, consider material compatibility, grip range, shear strength, and specific application requirements. Different types of structural rivets, including countersunk, domed head, and large flange rivets, cater to varying needs and aesthetic preferences. RivetLab can supply structural rivets made from Aluminium, Steel or Stainless Steel. Special plating and coating can also be applied during the manufacturing process. Minimum order quantities will apply in these scenarios.
