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PartsBase is a very useful tool I take advantage of every day. When it comes to sourcing parts I operate on urgent AOG requirements. PartsBase provides me with so many useful tools and diverse vendors to make sure I can satisfy all my requirements.

Zachary Baker 
Emergency Response Coordinator

Jimmy White
Operations Manager APU Shop

I understand firsthand why companies use PartsBase.The PartsBase team is exceptional and the system is top notch. I truly appreciated all the support over the years.

At Duncan Aviation Parts & Rotable Sales, we receive thousands of calls from customers wanting to buy parts because they found us in PartsBase.

Chris Gress 
Parts & Rotable Sales Manager


Aircraft Rivets Parts: Everything You Need to Know

Aircraft rivets are an essential component in the construction and maintenance of airplanes. These small fasteners play a vital role in holding various parts of an aircraft together, ensuring structural integrity and safety during flight.

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What are Aircraft Rivets?

The Importance of Rivets in Aircraft Construction

Rivets are permanent fasteners that are used to join two or more metal pieces together. They are strategically placed in critical areas of the aircraft, where the highest stress concentrations occur.

Aircrafts undergo tremendous stress during operations, including:

IIn this article, we will explore the different types of aircraft rivets, their components, categories, and the materials used to create them. But first things first, what are aircraft rivets?

In this demanding environment, rivets play a crucial role in distributing and absorbing stress loads across the aircraft's structure. Without strong and reliable rivets, the structural integrity of the aircraft could be compromised, leading to catastrophic consequences.

These areas are carefully analyzed and engineered to ensure that the rivets can effectively distribute and transfer the loads, ensuring the overall structural integrity of the aircraft. They are relied upon for their:

The 3 Types of Aircraft Rivets

Once we have a general understanding of what rivets are composed of, we can now delve into the types of rivets, their installations, and their functions to further understand why rivets are essential in aircrafts.

There are several types of rivets used in aircraft construction, each designed to fulfill specific requirements. Understanding these various types is essential for selecting the most suitable rivet for a particular application, so let’s get into more detail.

The 3 Main Materials Used in Aircraft Rivets

Aircraft rivets are constructed from various materials to meet the specific requirements of different applications. The most commonly used materials are:

  • Strength

  • Durability

  • Ability to withstand the demands of flight.

As aircraft are subjected to high levels of stress, it is crucial to select the appropriate rivets for each application to ensure the integrity of the aircraft structure. But this isn’t the only reason they are important.

  • Changes in altitude

  • Changes in air pressure

  • Temperature changes

  • Vibrations and turbulence

  • Corrosion in metal

  • And other forces encountered during flight.

Furthermore, rivets are specifically designed to handle the unique challenges of aircraft construction and are selected to ensure maximum strength and durability. However, in order to fully grasp the intricacies of aircraft rivets, it is necessary to examine their components.

The 3 Components of Aircraft Rivets

Each rivet consists of three main parts. These components work together to ensure a secure and lasting attachment, so let’s get into more detail.

The Component

The Characteristics

The Function

Rivet Head

It is often round or countersunk, and its size and shape depend on the specific aircraft requirements and desired finish.

The rivet head is the expanded portion of the rivet that holds the joint together.

Rivet Shank

The long, cylindrical body of the rivet which diameter and length can vary depending on the thickness and material of the aircraft.

When selecting a rivet shank, engineers consider factors such as the shear and tensile strength required for the joint as they are used to keep the rivet together.

Rivet Tail

The rivet tail is the end of the shank that protrudes through the metal pieces once the rivet is installed.

They create a mechanical lock between the rivet and the metal pieces, preventing the rivet from slipping out or rotating.


Type of Aircraft Rivet

How they are installed

Function of Aircraft Rivet

Used in

Solid Rivets

They are installed by heating the shaft and forming a second head on the opposite end.

They consist of a cylindrical shaft with a shaped head and are used for maximum structural integrity.

  • Wings 

  • Fuselage

Blind or Pop Rivets

They are installed from one side of the workpiece in areas that are difficult to access.

They consist of a tubular body with a mandrel inside and are used where disassembly and reassembly may be required.

  • Aircraft panels

  • Fairings


Semi-tubular Rivets

They are identical to solid rivets but have a hole drilled in them.

They are used in areas where a combination of strength and flexibility is required.

  • Control surfaces

  • Landing gear


The selection of the appropriate rivet type depends on various factors, including the specific application, the materials being joined, and the required level of strength and accessibility.

By understanding this, you can make informed decisions to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the aircraft. Another factor to take into account is the material to use for your aircraft rivets. So let’s delve into more detail on the materials used to manufacture rivets.

1. Aluminum Rivets

Aluminum rivets are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making them the most prevalent choice for aircraft construction. They offer excellent strength-to-weight ratios and are particularly suitable for non-structural applications where weight reduction is a priority.

2. Steel Rivets

Steel rivets are known for their exceptional strength and durability. They are commonly used in applications that require higher load capacities or where higher strength is necessary, such as in structural components of aircraft.

3. Titanium Rivets

Titanium rivets are utilized in specific aircraft applications where lightweight, high strength, and excellent corrosion resistance are paramount. Although more expensive than aluminum or steel, titanium rivets are an excellent choice for specialized applications that demand superior performance.

Last Thoughts on Aircraft Rivets Parts

Aircraft rivets are an essential component in aircraft construction, providing secure and lasting connections between metal parts. Understanding the different types of rivets, their components, categories, and materials allows for informed decision-making when selecting the most suitable rivet for a particular application.

By ensuring the proper use of rivets, the structural integrity of aircraft can be maintained, contributing to the overall safety and reliability of air travel. With this knowledge you will be ready to select only the best rivets for your aircraft needs!