What is an important consideration when selecting a rivet for structural repair?

When selecting a rivet for structural repair, material compatibility is a critical consideration because it directly affects the strength and durability of the bond. Different materials expand, contract, and behave differently under various environmental conditions. If a rivet is made from a material that is not compatible with the surrounding structures, it can lead to corrosion, weakening of the joint, or failure of the repair over time.

In aerospace applications, for example, using rivets made of aluminum with aluminum structures is common to prevent galvanic corrosion. Ensuring that the rivet and the surrounding materials are compatible helps maintain the integrity and safety of the structure. This is especially important in high-stress environments, where mechanical properties such as tensile strength, fatigue resistance, and thermal expansion must be taken into account. Therefore, the choice of rivet material plays a defining role in the success of any structural repair.