Rivet
![]() |
A rivet is a mechanical fastener for making a permanent join between two or more metal sheets. Riveting is the act of fastening or securing two plates with one or more rivets. The rivet comprises a shank with a plain end (or tail), and a head on the other end. The rivet has proved to be one of the most reliable and safe means of fastening, forming a permanent and structurally robust join.
The process of riveting (or making a riveted joint) comprises making a whole in say, two metal plates, aligning the hole, then inserting the rivet through it with the plain end projecting through (‘A’ in the diagram). Hammering the projecting tail end of the rivet causes it to mushroom, expanding by around 1.5 times its original diameter, causing a head to form (‘B’) which secures the rivet and the join permanently. The final shape of the rivet is therefore similar to a dumbbell, with the original head called the factory head and the new tail end called the shop head (or buck tail). The finished rivet can support shear and tension loads.
![]() |
Historically, riveting has been widely used in shipbuilding, bridge building and other areas where steel infrastructure was involved. It was also used in construction but nowadays rarely performed on site but more in the factory, if at all. Typically, this might have been for riveting connecting cleats to steel stanchions and beams, with the final assembly bolted together on site.
Much of the site riveting that took place in construction has been replaced by welding or bolting (bolts typically have the same strength as rivets). Aircraft manufacture makes widespread use of riveting throughout the frame and wings of the plane which can typically require hundreds of thousands of rivets.
Manual hammering is one way of securing a rivet, however in recent times other methods are used to perform the same task and include the use of a hydraulic- or pneumatic-powered air hammer, a rivet gun or a rivet crimping tool. The latter allows the riveting process to be undertaken by one person. Usually, access is required on both sides of the rivet which is why riveting has traditionally been a two-person operation. Where access to the rivet is only possible from one side, the traditional rivet is replaced by a ‘blind rivet’.
|
Rivet gun and rivets. |
Today, structural steel in construction is mostly assembled using high-strength steel bolts. This is mainly because a bolted connection is cheaper to make than a rivet as it requires lower-skills and fewer workers to complete. Bolts can also be undone.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.