Rivets are essential fasteners used in various industries for joining materials together, and among the many types available, steel tubular rivets and copper tubular rivets are widely used for their unique properties. Let's explore these two popular fasteners and understand their characteristics, applications, and differences.
Steel tubular rivets are made from steel, a strong and durable material known for its high tensile strength and resistance to corrosion. They are typically composed of a cylindrical tube with a head on one end and a flared or chamfered tail on the other. Steel tubular rivets are installed by inserting the tail end into a pre-drilled hole and then using a rivet gun or other appropriate tool to expand the tail, causing it to flare and create a clinching effect that secures the joint.
Steel tubular rivets are known for their excellent strength and load-bearing capacity, making them ideal for heavy-duty applications where structural integrity is crucial, such as in the construction, automotive, and aerospace industries. They are commonly used in applications where joints need to withstand high levels of stress, vibration, or impact, and where resistance to corrosion is important.
Copper tubular rivets, on the other hand, are made from copper, a malleable and ductile metal known for its excellent thermal and electrical conductivity. Like steel tubular rivets, they are composed of a cylindrical tube with a head on one end and a flared or chamfered tail on the other. Copper tubular rivets are installed in a similar manner, by inserting the tail end into a pre-drilled hole and then expanding the tail to create a clinching effect.
Copper tubular rivets are known for their unique properties, such as their electrical conductivity, making them ideal for applications where electrical grounding or conductivity is required, such as in electronics, telecommunications, and electrical equipment. They are also commonly used in decorative or ornamental applications, as copper is a visually appealing metal that develops a natural patina over time, giving it a distinct aesthetic appearance.
Additionally, steel tubular rivets may be more resistant to corrosion compared to copper tubular rivets, as steel is less prone to oxidation. However, copper tubular rivets are more malleable and ductile compared to steel tubular rivets, making them easier to form and manipulate during installation.