Talking about the setting force of Rivets

Traditional threaded fasteners can loosen when subjected to regular vibration or tension. However, as permanent fasteners, rivets prevent this loosening. Rivets are widely used in the aerospace industry, from commercial airliners and commuter jets to helicopters and the space shuttle. They create permanent connections that withstand vibration and tension. However, if you plan to use rivets, you should be familiar with their installation force.

Installation Force Overview

Installation force is the force required to install a rivet. It is usually measured in pounds. Different types of rivets have different installation forces. The greater the installation force, the more force is required to install the rivet—whether installed manually or with the aid of a tool.

Rivets deform during installation, which is essentially how they create a permanent connection that withstands vibration. For example, with solid rivets, a shank is placed behind the rivet, and then the rivet head is struck with a hammer or similar tool. This impacting action causes the back of the rivet to deform. The rivet's installation force determines how much force is required to deform the rivet without damaging the rivet or the surrounding material.

Semi-Tubular Rivets 

The Importance of Installation Force

Installation force should be considered when installing rivets. If the setting force is too low, the rivet may not deform properly. Of course, deformation is crucial to the rivet's function. If the rivet doesn't deform, it won't create a secure connection.

On the other hand, excessive setting force can damage the rivet itself or the surrounding material. This damage is particularly common when working with soft materials like plastic or aluminum.

Compression guns and similar riveting tools are designed to withstand specific loads. Using excessive setting force can cause these tools to wear prematurely or even break completely. You can protect your tools from unnatural wear by using an appropriate setting force.

Factors Affecting Setting Force

Several factors can affect the setting force of a rivet. Larger rivets generally require more force to deform and install than smaller ones. The material used in the rivet also affects its installation force. If the surrounding material is particularly hard, a higher installation force may be required.

Another factor affecting installation force is the condition of the hole. Rivets are typically installed in pre-drilled holes. If the hole is too small or has uneven edges, you may need to use more force to deform and install the rivet.