Uses for Rivets in CNC Machining and Fabrication(die casting molds Dawn)
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Joining Dissimilar Metals
One of the key benefits of rivets is the ability to join different metals together. This is especially useful in complex fabrication projects where components must be made from specialized materials. For example, an aluminum framework can be riveted to steel brackets and plates. The rivets form a solid mechanical bond without the need for welding or risky adhesive bonding between dissimilar metals. Riveted connections also allow for more flexibility and shock absorption compared to welded joints.
High Strength Connections
For high strength structural joints, rivets are often preferred over other mechanical fasteners. When installed properly, the force created by the mechanical deformation of the rivet shank creates a tight clamping force between components. This friction grip connection can withstand tremendous shear and tensile loads. Rivets also have high fatigue strength, allowing dynamic load applications. Aircraft construction, in particular, relies heavily on riveted connections between major fuselage and wing components.
Vibration Resistance
Riveted joints are naturally resistant to loosening under vibration. This makes rivets well suited for components like truck frames, mining equipment, and other machinery that generate consistent shock and vibration when in use. Proper rivet installation results in tight joint clamping that maintains integrity despite ongoing cyclic stresses from vibration. Rivets also dampen some of the vibration transmission through structures.
Corrosion Resistance
The air-tight clamping action of rivets prevents moisture from entering the joint. This protects against corrosion and oxidation. Stainless steel and aluminum rivets provide further corrosion resistance for demanding applications like marine fabrication. Plastic and nylon rivets also resist corrosion for electronics and chemical processing equipment. Riveted seams can even be caulked or sealed with adhesive tapes for additional environmental protection.
Ease of Inspection
Unlike welds, bolts, and adhesives, rivets allow for easy visual inspection of the joint alignment and integrity. Missing or damaged rivets are also obvious indicators of issues needing repair. The hollow center of most rivets also provides an entry point for advanced nondestructive testing methods, like eddy current and ultrasonic analysis. This simplifies quality control and preventative maintenance programs.
Field Repairability
One of the major advantages of rivets is that they can be easily removed and replaced to facilitate repairs and part replacement. This is important for equipment that needs to be serviced frequently. Damaged rivets can be drilled out and new ones installed in their place onsite. No special tools are needed other than a rivet gun. This repairability makes rivets favorable for aircraft, vehicles, boats, and other field serviceable machinery.
Low Part Count
Rivets allow for economical joining using very few parts - usually just a rivet and a washer. This simplicity reduces component inventory management requirements. Riveting also involves fewer production steps compared to welding, bolting, or adhesive bonding. The speed and ease of installation results in lower overall assembly costs.
Flexibility in Joint Design
Engineers can select from many rivet styles, materials, and installation methods to customize joints. Options like countersunk and flush rivets allow for smooth outer surfaces free of protrusions. Self-piercing and blind rivets permit connections with access from only one side. Solid, semi-tubular, and tubular rivet variations provide choices for grip range, strength, and driving technique. This high degree of design flexibility enables rivets to meet diverse joint requirements.
Automated Riveting
For high-volume production, riveting operations can be automated on CNC machines to achieve consistent quality and throughput. Computer-controlled rivet installation robots position and set rivets with precision while protecting machinery and workers. Automated robotic arms can access confined spaces and apply constant pressure during installation. This makes lights-out riveting feasible for mass-produced products.
Mechanically Fastened Joints
Riveting remains a versatile, economical, and robust mechanical fastening technique proven by long-term reliability across many critical applications. CNC machining and fabrication specialists rely on rivets for diverse purposes thanks to their numerous advantages. With automated and robotic installation processes, rivets continue to be a staple fastening method for connecting structural, aerospace, transportation, and machinery components. Their unique combination of strength, vibration resistance, corrosion protection, inspection access, repairability, and design flexibility makes rivets an essential joining option for both manual and automated fabrication operations. CNC Milling CNC Machining