Then our rivet diameter would be at least 0.120' (or 1/8'), and the length would be estimated atĠ.267'. That is to say, if we are riveting two skins of 0.040', Length is gauged by using the formula of 1.5 times theĭiameter protruding through the structure. Practice to use the same diameter of rivets in adjacent fasteners, preferrably referring to rows If the repair is being made to an existing aircraft structure, it is common In selecting the diameter of the rivet, use a guideline of at least 3 (three) times the thickness of Generally, the choice is simplified to universal head or If this is not available, consult the manufacturer's Head style of rivet as seen in nearby structure. This part number calls out a 100° countersunk head rivet made of 2024 aluminum alloy, 3/32' inĪ rule of thumb for repair of aircraft structure states that AME's should use the same size and

Some aviationĬompanies purchase optional half-length sizes for their sheet metal technicians. (code letters), diameter in 32's of an inch, and length in 16ths of an inch. The MS or AN part number defines the rivet head style, and includes details such as the material One other style ofĬountersunk rivet, the NAS 1097, is discussed further down this page. Of the rivetsĭiscussed here, the universal head is the strongest general purpose rivet. If a dimpling operation was used, then strength is retained, however removing rivetsįrom a dimpled installation can be more time consuming and cause more damage. Made by a machine countersinking bit, then material has been removed which will cause a loss in If the tapered walls for the head of the countersunk rivet has been Universal head rivet lengthĭefines the shank only, not including the head.Ĭountersunk rivets are primarily installed as a low-drag fastener, but the pricetag for the extra Note that countersunk rivets, when defining length, include the head. Universal head and the AN426 100° Countersunk head. Following heat treating they must be kept in a freezer for no longer than 20Īviation rivets are available in 4 common head styles, with the most popular being the AN470 'D' and 'DD' rivets are commonly called icebox rivets because they must be heat Rivet, usually found in high strength locations or in firewalls where temperature may be aĬonsideration. Double-dimples on the head (and a heavy silver color) will indicate a monel

This makes the center of the rivet easier to locate whenĭrilling off the head. Installed without any additional handling. The mostĬommon rivet for AME's is the 'AD' rivet with a single dimple in its head, which can be 'B' rivets, alloyed with magnesium is identified with a cross on its head. Rivets with no head markings are soft 1100 (pure) aluminum, and not used in structuralĪpplications. Represented by a letter (or letters) in the part number. Now let's take a closer look at the details surrounding these myriad little items.Īircraft rivets are identified by the marks on the manufacturer's head, and the alloys are We know the importance of the lowly aircraft rivet We've all seen the articles floating around about the 1.8 million fasteners required to build theĭC-10's and 747's and other mega-aircraft. Following heat treating they must be kept in a freezer for no longer than 20 minutes prior to driving. 'D' and 'DD' rivets are commonly called icebox rivets because they must be heat treated before use. Double-dimples on the head (and a heavy silver color) will indicate a monel rivet, usually found in high strength locations or in firewalls where temperature may be a consideration. This makes the center of the rivet easier to locate when drilling off the head. The most common rivet for AME's is the 'AD' rivet with a single dimple in its head, which can be installed without any additional handling.

Rivets with no head markings are soft 1100 (pure) aluminum, and not used in structural applications. Aircraft rivets are identified by the marks on the manufacturer's head, and the alloys are represented by a letter (or letters) in the part number. We know the importance of the lowly aircraft rivet now let's take a closer look at the details surrounding these myriad little items. AME Structures Solid Rivet Identification We've all seen the articles floating around about the 1.8 million fasteners required to build the DC-10's and 747's and other mega-aircraft.

Solid rivet setter