Types of Rivets: A Complete Overview

Rivets are among the oldest and most reliable mechanical fastening solutions. Used in construction, metalworking, automotive manufacturing, and even aircraft assembly, rivets provide permanent, vibration-resistant joints that can withstand heavy loads. Whether you’re selecting rivets for a DIY project or large-scale industrial production, understanding the different types of rivets—and their advantages—is essential.

This complete overview will guide you through the most common types of rivets, how they work, and where they are used.

What Is a Rivet?

A rivet is a mechanical fastener consisting of a smooth cylindrical shank topped with a head. When installed, the rivet deforms or expands to hold materials together permanently. Unlike screws or bolts, rivets do not require threads, making them ideal for applications where strength, simplicity, and vibration resistance are critical.

Common Types of Rivets

1. Solid Rivets

Also known as: round-head rivets, universal head rivets
Best for: Aircraft, bridges, structural steel, heavy machinery

Solid rivets are the oldest and strongest type of rivet. They consist of a single solid shaft that is hammered or pressed to form a permanent bond.

Advantages:

• Extremely strong and reliable

• Ideal for safety-critical applications

• Long service life

2. Blind Rivets (Pop Rivets)

Best for: Automotive repair, metal fabrication, consumer products, areas with single-side access

Blind rivets are designed for situations where you can only access one side of the workpiece. They are installed using a rivet gun that pulls a mandrel to expand the rivet body.

Advantages:

• Fast and easy installation

• Suitable for thin materials

• Wide range of materials and sizes

• Types of blind rivets:

• Standard blind rivets

• Sealed (closed-end) blind rivets

• Multi-grip blind rivets

• Structural blind rivets

3. Semi-Tubular Rivets

Best for: Electronics, luggage, furniture, light assembly work

Semi-tubular rivets look similar to solid rivets but feature a partial hole at the tip. This reduces the force needed for installation.

Advantages:

• Requires less force than solid rivets

• Cost-effective for high-volume production

• Lightweight and versatile

4. Split Rivets (Bifurcated Rivets)

Best for: Soft materials such as leather, textiles, plastics, or wood

Split rivets have a shank that splits in two, creating a “prong-like” effect when installed.

Advantages:

• Ideal for soft or brittle materials

• Simple installation by hand

• Strong hold without specialized tools

5. Drive Rivets

Best for: Signage, automotive trim, lightweight panels

Drive rivets have a short mandrel that is hammered into place to expand the rivet body.

Advantages:

• Quick installation

• Clean and smooth appearance

• Good for decorative or low-load applications

6. Countersunk Rivets

Best for: Surfaces requiring a flush finish—aircraft, boats, metal panels

Countersunk rivets are designed to sit flush in a countersunk hole, improving aerodynamics or aesthetics.

Advantages:

• Smooth, level finish

• Reduces drag (important for aircraft)

• Prevents snagging on surfaces

7. Flush Rivets

Best for: Aircraft skin, surface panels, critical aerodynamic structures

Flush rivets are a variation of countersunk rivets used to create a perfectly smooth surface.

Advantages:

• Perfect for aerodynamic performance

• Professional, seamless appearance

8. Explosive Rivets

Best for: Aircraft assembly, hard-to-access areas

These rivets contain a small charge that is activated to expand the tail section.

Advantages:

• Excellent for tight spaces

• Highly reliable in aviation environments

How to Choose the Right Rivet

Selecting the best rivet depends on multiple factors:

1. Material Compatibility

Aluminum rivets for soft metals

Stainless steel for corrosion resistance

Copper or brass for decorative or conductive applications

2. Required Strength

Solid and structural blind rivets offer the highest strength.

3. Access

Two-sided access → solid or tubular rivets

One-sided access → blind rivets

4. Environment

Marine or corrosive environments → stainless steel

High-vibration → solid rivets or structural blind rivets

Applications of Rivets

• Aerospace: Solid and flush rivets for aircraft skins

• Automotive: Blind rivets, tubular rivets, drive rivets

• Construction: Structural blind rivets, solid rivets

• Electronics & appliances: Semi-tubular rivets

• Leather goods & crafts: Split rivets

Conclusion

Rivets remain a critical fastening solution across many industries thanks to their strength, versatility, and durability. From solid rivets used in aircraft to blind rivets used in automotive repairs, each type has unique advantages and suitable applications. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right rivet for safety, performance, and cost-effectiveness.