Exploring the riveting technology of connecting the world

With the ongoing advancement of modern industrial technology, connection technology has become increasingly crucial as an integral component of the mechanical manufacturing field.

Riveting is a significant branch of metal connection and is extensively utilized in the aviation, automobile, construction and other industries. Riveting is a mechanical connection that joins two or more parts together using rivets or stamping. In comparison to other connection technologies, riveting offers unique advantages. Firstly, the riveted connection possesses high strength and can withstand substantial external forces such as tension, shear force and impact, ensuring the stability and reliability of the connection. Secondly, the riveted connection does not require additional connectors or filler materials, resulting in more compact and lightweight for connected parts, which is conducive to lightweight design. Additionally, riveting also exhibits excellent properties such as corrosion resistance, high temperature resistance, and fatigue resistance, enabling it to adapt to various complex working environments.

In recent years, as a result of the acceleration of industrialization and the continuous improvement of product quality requirements, there have been significant advancement in riveting technology. According to statistics, the global market for riveting equipment has consistently shown a growth trend in recent years, with sales reaching a total of US$430 million in 2023.

Categorization of riveting technology

With the continuous advancement of industrial technology, riveting technology is also constantly evolving and improving, resulting in various classifications and specific techniques available. Based on different classification criteria, it can be categorized into numerous types. Common methods of classification include categorization by riveting method, categorization by rivet shape and rivet structure, and categorization by riveting process.

I.  Categorization by riveting method

1. Cold riveting

Cold riveting is the process of riveting at ambient temperature. It is suitable for rivets with smaller diameters and materials with superior plasticity. During the process of cold riveting, a specific pressure is applied to the rivet using specialized riveting equipment or tools, resulting in its plastic deformation and the subsequent formation of a secure connection with the connected parts. Cold riveting offers the advantages of easy operation, high connection strength and cost-effectiveness, thus making it extensively utilized in various industries.

2. Hot riveting

Hot riveting is a technique that utilizes heat to deform the rivet to make the connection. This method is most suitable for rivets with larger diameters and materials that are not easily deformation. During the hot riveting process, the rivet is initially heated to a specific temperature and then promptly inserted into the hole of the connected part. By utilizing the residual heat of the rivet and the pressure of the specialized equipment, the rivet undergoes plastic deformation and forms a connection with the connected part. Hot riveting offers the advantages of increased connection strength and a smoother surface on the connected parts. However, it should be noted that the operation is relatively intricate and the associated costs are also higher.

II . Classification by riveting process

1. Active riveting

Active riveting refers to a riveting method in which the connected parts are able to rotate relative to each other after the riveting process. This riveting method is not create a rigid connection and allows for a certain degree of movement between the connected parts. Active riveting is commonly employed in situations that necessitate frequent disassembly and installation, such as with tools like scissors and pliers. Active riveting offers the advantages of simple operation and easy disassembly, but the connection strength is relatively low.

2. Fixed riveting

Fixed riveting refers to a riveting method in which the parts are unable to move in relation to each other after the riveting process. This riveting method creates a rigid connection that offers high connection strength and stability. Fixed riveting is commonly employed in situations that require the ability to withstand significant loads and impacts, such as angle squares and bridge construction. Fixed riveting offers the advantages of strong connection strength and reliable performance, although it may be relatively challenging to disassemble.

3. Sealing riveting

Sealed riveting refers to a riveting method in which the riveting seam is tightly sealed and does not allow gas or liquid to leak. This riveting method also provides a strong and secure connection with excellent  sealing performance. Sealed riveting is frequently employed in situations that demand high levels of sealing performance, such as in ships and containers. While sealed riveting offers the advantages of strong connection and effective sealing, it does require a relatively complex operation.

III. Classification by rivets

IV. Self-pierce riveting is classified according to rivet shape and rivet structure

1. Solid rivet riveting

Solid rivet riveting is a technique that utilizes solid rivets for the purpose of connection. Solid rivets possess exceptional strength and stability, suitable for situations that involve heavy loads and impacts. Throughout the process of solid rivet riveting, specialized equipment or tools are employed to exert pressure on the solid rivet, resulting in its plastic deformation and the formation of a connection with the associated parts. Solid rivet riveting offers the advantages of superior connection strength and reliable performance, and has found extensive application in the aviation, automotive, and other industries.

2. Hollow rivet riveting

Hollow rivet riveting is a technology that utilizes hollow rivets for the purpose of connection. Hollow rivets possess the advantages of being lightweight and resistant to corrosion, suitable for situations that demand both weight and reduction corrosion resistance. During the process of hollow rivet riveting, specialized equipment or tools are employed to apply pressure to the rivet, resulting in its plastic deformation and formation of a connection with the parts being joined. Hollow rivet riveting offers the advantages of high connection strength and pleasing aesthetics, and has found extensive application in the fields of construction and decoration.

Furthermore, there exist several distinct riveting technologies, such as pull riveting and press riveting. Pull riveting involves deforming the rivet through the application of pulling force in order to achieve connection, suitable for situations that require greater pulling force. Press riveting is a way of deforming the rivet by pressure to achieve connection, suitable for situations that require greater pressure.

With the continuous advancement of the digital and intelligent era, riveting technology will evolve towards greater automation, intelligence, environmental friendliness, and sustainability in order to meet the ever-changing industrial demands and play a more significant role in emerging fields.