Introduction(model toy Lillian)

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Rivets are a vital fastening technology used extensively in CNC manufacturing and fabrication. Though seemingly simple, rivets serve a wide range of critical purposes across many industries. Understanding the various applications and benefits of rivets is key for engineers and manufacturers looking to utilize these fasteners efficiently. This article will explore the many uses of rivets in CNC work and provide guidance on selecting and implementing rivets.
What are Rivets?
A rivet is a mechanical fastener that consists of two main parts - a smooth cylindrical shaft and a head. The shaft is inserted into pre-drilled holes in the materials being joined. The excess shaft is then flattened into a second head with force, creating a solid riveted joint. The compression and deformation of the rivet shaft against the hole walls is what creates the fastening power.
Rivets come in a variety of head shapes, materials, lengths and diameters to accommodate different applications and material thicknesses. Common materials include aluminum, steel, copper, stainless steel, and specialty alloys like Monel. The two main rivet types are blind and solid. Blind rivets can be installed from one side when there is only access to one surface. Solid rivets require access to both sides.
Common Uses and Benefits
Rivets have remained a popular fastening choice in manufacturing because of their reliability, versatility, and ease of installation. Here are some of the most common uses and advantages of rivets in CNC work:
- Metal Fabrication - Rivets are extensively used to join pieces of sheet metal, plates, and structural components in everything from aircraft to bridges to motors. The riveting process is easily automated via CNC.
- Machinery Construction - Rivets assemble the casings, frames, and internal parts of machinery of all types. Their vibration resistance prevents joints from loosening over time.
- Attaching Components - Rivets provide durable fastening of handles, hinges, control panels, steps, and other components to equipment and structures.
- Easy Installation - Riveted joints can be quickly installed with access from one side or both sides of a material. Minimal surface prep is required beyond drilling holes.
- Shear Strength - The cylindrical shank of rivets has high shear strength to prevent joint slippage perpendicular to the axis.
- Durability - Rivets withstand harsh environments including vibration, temperature extremes, and moisture. Joints last the lifetime of the product.
- No Threads or Finish Distortion - Riveting applies no threading forces that can distort fragile materials. The plain shank causes no cross-threading.
- Economy - Mechanical rivets are relatively inexpensive fasteners compared to welds or bolts. Installation requires only basic tools.
Selecting the Best Rivets
With hundreds of rivet types and materials available, it is important to select the optimal variant for your CNC application based on joint design, materials, strength needs, and installation method. Key factors to consider include:
- Materials - Match rivet material to the base materials to prevent galvanic corrosion. Use hardness or coatings to reduce wear.
- Diameter & Length - Diameter impacts shear strength. Length must suit material thickness with enough grip for the joint.
- Head Shape - Countersunk, round, flat, and specialty heads fit different assembly geometries.
- Strength - Review engineering spec sheets to select rivets that meet structural load requirements.
- Installation Method - Choose blind or solid rivets based on equipment access to one or both sides.
- Processing Method - Select rivets compatible with CNC riveting, automation, or manual tools.
- Codes & Standards - For regulated industries, ensure rivets meet all required codes and standards.
With proper selection, rivets serve as durable, reliable, and versatile fasteners for CNC-driven manufacturing and fabrication. Their installation is highly automatable and repeatable using CNC feeders, presses, and orbital riveting systems. Riveting continues to be a staple process that produces clean, tight, and vibration-resistant joints.
Conclusion
Rivets have stood the test of time as a go-to fastening solution thanks to their strength, economy, and ease of automation through CNC techniques. Understanding the vast range of rivet types and applications allows engineers to select the optimal variant for their specific manufacturing needs. With robust joints assembled quickly and reliably, rivets will continue enabling automated fabrication across countless essential industries. CNC Milling CNC Machining