Rivet Types

From Matronics

Several types of rivets are used in the construction of the RV series of aircraft. The different types of rivets are designated by AN (Army/Navy) spec numbers, which give the type, size, and length of a given rivet.


The different catagories of Rivets used include the following:

  • Flush Head Rivets (AN 426)
    • Used primarily in fastening skins to underlying structure to reduce drag.


  • Round Head Rivets (AN 470)**Used primarily in construction of skeletons (ribs, spars, etc.)


  • Blind Rivets ('Pop', or 'Cherry')
    • Used where both sides of a rivet can not be accessed for installation of a typical rivet.


Flush Head Rivet (NAS1097) Sometimes quaintly referred to as an "oops" rivet, that little tag can project a slightly misleading image of this rivet's considerable utility. Because of the smaller manufactured head that defines an NAS1097 rivet, the rivet requires considerably less countersink than a AN426 rivet. Produced in many lengths, the design feature means these rivets in the AD3 diameter (3/32") are ideal for installing nutplates/platenuts (the term is interchangeable), especially in thinner material. For most homebuilt nutplate applications the builder will likely find the NAS1097AD3-3.5 to be by far the most useful length. Rick Galati

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