Uses for Rivets in CNC(engraved vs etched Eli)
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- source:DAHLER CNC Machining
What are Rivets?
A rivet is a mechanical fastener that connects two or more materials by inserting a metal shaft through aligned holes in the pieces. The rivet shaft expands when the tail end is upset, flared, bucked or flattened to lock everything together. Rivets consist of the rivet body, shank, head and mandrel.
The body fits into holes drilled through the materials being joined. Aluminum, steel, copper and various alloys create strong, reliable rivets. Different head shapes (round, flat, countersunk) accommodate design needs. Mandrels fill the hollow rivet body to expand and flare the tail during installation.
Key Properties and Benefits
Rivets offer unique properties that make them advantageous for many CNC applications:
- High shear strength: Rivets withstand forces trying to slide joined materials across each other. This makes them suitable for structural connections.
- Vibration resistance: The flared tails resist vibrational loosening, keeping riveted assemblies intact.
- Durability: Aluminum and steel rivets hold up well to exposure, abrasion and daily stresses. Proper installation results in long service life.
- Reusable: Some rivets allow for non-destructive removal and reinsertion if needed for maintenance work.
- Cost-effective: Riveting provides a simple, affordable means of creating solid joints. Hand, pneumatic and hydraulic tools facilitate rapid installation.
Because of these characteristics, rivets serve as reliable fasteners for numerous situations involving CNC workpieces.
CNC Applications for Rivets
CNC machining utilizes rivets in applications such as:
Aerospace: Rivets assemble wings, fuselages, firewalls and other aircraft components that experience substantial vibration and stresses. Machined parts are joined into stable, resilient structures.
Transportation: Heavy trucks and machinery rely on rivets at major joints for durability. CNC produces panels, brackets, hitches and assemblies held together by rivets able to withstand road impacts, loading forces and corrosion.
Infrastructure: Steel girders, cranes, transmission towers, rail tracks and other structures depend on riveted connections capable of withstanding years of service with minimal maintenance needs. CNC fabricates sections joined onsite by pneumatic rivet installation tools.
Construction Equipment: Excavators, dozers, skid steers and lifts include riveted pins, arms, cylinders, hinges, gears and other critical components machined on CNCs. Rivets maintain joints despite harsh operating environments.
Plumbing and Hydraulics: Industrial pipes, valves, pumps, oil and gas apparatus utilize rivets for leakproof sealing and reliable mounting. CNC produces components riveted together into systems that contain high-pressure fluids.
Electronics: Computers, kiosks, control panels and other devices rely on rivets to assemble outer casings as well as mount internal PC boards and components in alignment. Rivets allow serviceability while avoiding damage.
Signage: Storefront signs, road markers, exhibits and displays often consist of CNC routed panels riveted together into the finished structure. Rivets accommodate assembly and hold up to weather.
Furniture: Chairs, benches, shelves and recreational items like fitness equipment depend on rivets for stability and safety. CNC feeds sheet metal, tubes, bars and other stock into automated tools that machine finished parts. Rivets then permanently fasten moving linkages and weight-bearing structures.
Best Practices for CNC Riveting
Properly incorporating rivets when designing and machining parts ensures optimal results. Useful tips include:
- Plan adequate space around rivets for tool access during installation to expand and flare the mandrel.
- Design assembly steps so rivets can be driven into final form before surrounding parts block tool access.
- Align rivet holes precisely between mating components so shanks insert smoothly without binding.
- Select rivet sizes and head configurations appropriate for each application's thickness, forces and service conditions.
- Use shown head dimensions to program finish depths when counterboring for flush rivet installation.
- Incorporate lead-in chamfers, backup washers or collars if needed to support material around holes.
- Consider secondary processing like deburring or smoothing surfaces surrounding riveted joints.
- Test prototype assemblies to confirm selected rivets properly join components before final production.
By following best practices, CNC shops can take advantage of rivets' strength, reliability and process efficiencies. Considering joint design, tool access, optimal rivet specifications, and effective driving equipment helps fabricate rugged, quality finished products. Whether developing new applications or optimizing proven designs, rivets remain a foundational option for assembling CNC workpieces into sturdy assemblies. CNC Milling CNC Machining