Rivet materials vary depending on the application, strength requirements, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with the materials being joined. Here are the common rivet materials and their characteristics:
| Aluminum | Lightweight, corrosion-resistant (with compatible materials), durable. Common in aircraft, automotive, and HVAC. Pure aluminum is not strong enough for structural use without alloying. |
| Steel | High tensile strength and durability. High-carbon steel is strong but less malleable; low-carbon steel is more malleable but slightly weaker. Used in aircraft, automotive, construction, and furniture. Zinc coating improves corrosion resistance. |
| Stainless Steel | Strong, hard, corrosion-resistant, and good for hygienic applications. Used in aircraft, automotive, rail transport, and environments requiring corrosion resistance. |
| Brass | Malleable, strong, low friction, and spark-free. Ideal for gas-tight joints and gas appliances. |
| Copper | Ductile, strong, decorative, excellent conductor of heat and electricity. Used in electrical appliances and water-related applications. |
| Copper-Nickel | Alloy (typically 80% copper, 20% nickel) with high corrosion and stress resistance, suitable for shipbuilding and corrosive environments. |
| Plastic | Corrosion-resistant, used for joining soft materials like rubber, urethane, and plastics. Suitable for consumer appliances and electronics. |
Compatibility considerations:
- Avoid mixing aluminum rivets with steel components and vice versa to prevent galvanic corrosion.
- Stainless steel rivets are compatible with copper, brass, and copper-nickel.
- Coatings like zinc or Almac® (aluminum-zinc) can improve corrosion resistance and compatibility.
Summary table of metal compatibility:
| Rivet Material | Aluminum | Zinc-coated Steel | Stainless Steel | Copper | Brass |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| Zinc-coated Steel | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Stainless Steel | – | – | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Copper-Nickel | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Copper | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
(Yes = compatible, No = incompatible, – = compatible in mild environments with some corrosion risk).
In essence, choosing rivet material depends on the mechanical strength needed, corrosion resistance, and material compatibility to ensure a durable and reliable joint.
