Introduction(prototype plastic parts Pag)
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Rivets have been used since ancient times in construction and manufacturing due to their simplicity, reliability and cost-effectiveness. The advent of computer numerical control (CNC) machining has expanded the applications for rivets in manufacturing significantly.
CNC machining allows rivet holes to be precisely located and aligned, enabling more secure and consistent joints. CNC also facilitates specialty riveting processes like orbital riveting for large-scale aerospace and shipbuilding applications.
This article will provide an overview of the key uses and benefits of rivets in CNC manufacturing processes.
Key Uses of Rivets in CNC Manufacturing
Aircraft and Aerospace Components
The aerospace industry relies heavily on rivets to assemble airplane fuselages, wings and other components. Thousands of rivets are used to join aluminum sheeting and frames in aircraft bodies. CNC machining enables extremely precise location and alignment of the rivet holes for each component. Orbital riveting systems are programmed to install rows of rivets in a highly automated process ideal for large-scale aerospace fabrication.
Metal Enclosures and Chassis
Electronic equipment like computers, medical devices and industrial control systems typically have metal enclosures or chassis to house internal components. Rivets provide a simple and secure way to fasten the sides, faceplates and panels for these enclosures. CNC machining centers can rapidly drill consistent rivet hole patterns into enclosure panels for reliable assembly.
Automotive Components
Cars, trucks and other vehicles use plenty of rivets in their body panels and structural frames. CNC laser cutting machines produce body panel pieces with pre-formed rivet holes in optimal locations. Automated riveting systems then join these panels to create automotive bodies accurately and efficiently on the assembly line.
Appliances and Consumer Products
Many household appliances and consumer goods like washers, dryers, microwaves, electronics and furniture utilize rivets in their casing and construction. CNC routers can cut sheet metal and plastic components like panels, brackets and handles with integrated rivet holes for simplified assembly. Power hand tools often employ rivets to fasten clamshell housing pieces together around internal mechanisms.
Plumbing Fixtures and Hydraulic Systems
Plumbing fixtures including valves, tubes and tanks commonly integrate riveted seams and joints. Hydraulic power equipment also relies on rivets to assemble cylinders, manifolds and reservoirs that contain highly pressurized fluid. CNC machining allows for precise rivet placement to prevent leaks in these water and fluid systems.
Benefits of Rivets for CNC Manufacturing
There are several key reasons why rivets continue to be widely used in CNC manufacturing:
- Cost Effective - Rivets are an affordable fastening method, especially compared to alternatives like welding or adhesives. The raw rivet materials and installation tools have low costs.
- Efficient Assembly - CNC-drilled rivet holes allow for fast, simple joining of components. Minimal surface preparation is required compared to welding or bonding. Automated riveting systems can rapidly install hundreds of rivets.
- Strong and Reliable - Once installed, the rivet head and shank provide a tight, permanent mechanical joint. Rivets withstand vibration and impacts well.
- Adjustments and Disassembly - Bucked rivets allow some adjustment of workpieces during installation. Rivets can also be drilled out later if disassembly is needed.
- Corrosion Resistant - Many rivets are made of aluminum, stainless steel or other materials that resist corrosion in industrial and outdoor environments.
- Repairs - Damaged rivets are easily removed and replaced to fix assemblies. New rivet holes can be added with CNC machining.
- Design Flexibility - Rivets are available in a wide range of diameters, lengths and head styles to accommodate diverse applications and design requirements.
By leveraging these advantages, manufacturers can use CNC riveting to improve product quality, reliability and manufacturing efficiency across many industries.
Conclusion
Riveting is an essential joining technique that continues to expand in usage and capabilities thanks to CNC-based manufacturing. The precision of CNC machining enables rivets to be positioned accurately and installed consistently for strong, reliable and cost-effective assemblies. Whether used to build airplanes, appliances or consumer electronics, rivets allow manufacturers to improve product performance while maximizing productivity. Continued advances in riveting technology and CNC automation will drive further growth in rivet-based design and manufacturing. CNC Milling