How thick can a riveted joint get.

[ChasGen61]

How thick can a riveted joint get. Let's say we have 2 aluminum sheets(2024-T3)being riveted with AD5 rivets. Assume both sheets are equal in thickness and thick enough so that we are shear critical. How thick can both sheets get using rivets? If you answer this where can I reference it?

 

[TVP]

Typical maximum grip length for 1/4" structural rivet is 0.875". Avdel has a version of their Q rivet that goes to 1.25":

http://www.avdel-global.com/fileadm...ial/Breakstem/Q_Rivet_BSPQ_BSLQ_BSCQ_inch.pdf

 

[Andries]

Hi Chas,

A rough guide for solid rivets is:

• The rivet diameter, D, should be equal to or greater than the thickness of the thickest part in the joint and less than 3 x the thickness of the thinnest part.
• If the stack-up (assembly thickness) exceeds 2,5 x D, the rivet diameter should be increased, or another type of fastener used, such as a Hi-Lok or lock bolt.
• Where fluid tightness is essential the stack-up should not exceed 2D. This is because a bigger stack-up will require a larger force in the joint to ensure sealing, which may not be readily attainable.
The info comes from a well-known, large US Aerospace Corporation

Andries

 

[rb1957]

if you consider the bending you're imposing on the rivet, then you can go further than 2D, but i think they'll quickly become ineffective and you'll move to Hi-Lites/Hi-Loks.

 

[kontiki99]

Try FAA Advisory Circular 43.13.

In theory, there is no difference between theory and practice; experience suggests that in practice, there is.

 

[rb1957]

going back to the original question, -5 rivets are shear critical at thickness = 0.063" (depending of course on the sheet material), so being greater than this doesn't really define the problem ... a stack up of 1.5D to 2D (0.3") wouldn't raise questions ... what stack up are you considering ?