Best Rivets For Aluminum Boats: Strength And Durability

Aluminum boats are a popular choice for many boat owners, but they do have one drawback: they eventually spring leaks at the seams, especially around loose rivets. This is not only a nuisance but also a safety concern. When it comes to choosing the right rivets for an aluminum boat, there are several options available, including universal head rivets, closed-end blind rivets, and solid rivets. It is important to consider the strength and type of aluminum to prevent electrolysis issues, as well as the location of the rivets on the boat. While some rivets are suitable for use below the waterline, others are recommended for use above the waterline only. In addition, the type of rivet tool required will depend on the type of rivet being used and the accessibility of the area where the rivets need to be placed.

Brazier Head Solid Rivets

The rivets are available in a variety of sizes, including:

• 3/16" Diameter X 3/8" Length
• 3/16" Diameter X 1/2" Length
• 1/4" Diameter X 1/2" Length
• 1/4" Diameter X 3/8" Length

When installing Brazier Head Solid Rivets, it is important to use a bucking tool to ensure proper installation. The rivet consists of a dome-shaped head and a solid shank that deforms when compressed, securing the panels it is inserted into.

Overall, Brazier Head Solid Rivets are a reliable and effective option for repairing and replacing rivets in aluminum boats, providing a strong and secure hold while being corrosion-resistant and suitable for marine environments.

Closed End Blind Rivets

Closed-end rivets are a type of tubular rivet with a unique, cup-shaped end configuration that is designed for watertight applications. When set, closed-end rivets create a complete seal that prevents liquid or gas penetration. This seal is formed by the cup-shaped end configuration of the closed-end rivet. They are also known as blind rivets.

Closed-end rivets are ideal for use in boats as they are watertight and prevent corrosion. They are also versatile, low-cost, strong, and reliable. They can be used in blind or non-blind applications and provide 100% mandrel retention, which is vital when setting rivets in electronic equipment or other electrical applications.

The closed-end rivets form a smooth, closed head after installation, which does not reveal the internal structure of the rivet and is more aesthetically pleasing from the outside. This is especially important for high-end yachts and commercial vessels, where the appearance and texture of the hull surface need to be consistent and refined.

There are a few common problems with closed-end rivets for aluminum boats that are important to be aware of. If closed rivets are not properly installed or if there are material or design defects, they may loosen or fail, affecting the strength and reliability of the connection. It is important to regularly inspect and maintain closed rivets according to the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure a secure joint. Additionally, fatigue cracks may occur in closed rivets during the use of aluminum boats, especially when subjected to vibration and stress. Regular maintenance and timely repair or replacement of fatigued rivets can reduce this problem.

Closed-end rivets are available in a variety of materials, including aluminum, steel, and stainless steel. They come in domed and countersunk varieties and offer a range of benefits that make them ideal for use in aluminum boats.

Solid Buck Type Rivets

Solid buck-type rivets, also known as buck rivets, are a type of permanent mechanical fastener that has been used in the construction of aluminium-framed travel trailers for over 80 years. They are lightweight, strong, and inexpensive, making them ideal for aluminium aircraft construction and travel trailers.

Buck rivets are solid rivets that are driven by a rivet gun, a specialised pneumatic hammer, with an attached rivet set that matches the rounded shape of the rivet head. During installation, the tail of the rivet is backed by a bucking bar, which acts as an anvil while the rivet gun and set strike the head. As the rivets are driven, the tail is transformed into a flat mushroom-like shape called a "shop head", and the rivet shortens in length while the shank diameter expands to fill the hole.

Buck rivets are available in various styles, including Brazier head rivets and Universal head rivets, which are commonly used in the manufacture of aluminium-framed trailers. The rivets are typically composed of a soft aluminium alloy designated as 1100F, although some rivets used in travel trailers are made of a harder, heat-treated alloy known as 2117T.

When installing buck rivets, it is important to ensure that the holes are slightly larger than the rivet's outside diameter before driving. Additionally, access to both sides of the material being riveted is necessary, and the process often requires two people: one to drive the rivet and the other to use the bucking bar.

Buck rivets provide superior strength and waterproofness compared to aluminium blind rivets and are commonly used in aluminium boat repairs and maintenance. They are an excellent choice for joining metal pieces and ensuring a strong and secure hold.

Pop Rivets

When choosing pop rivets for an aluminium boat, it is important to consider the grade and type of aluminium to prevent issues with corrosion and electrolysis. Some common types of aluminium used in pop rivets include 5052, 2017-T4, and 2024-T4. It is also recommended to follow the boat manufacturer's recommendations for the type of rivets to use for repairs.

Additionally, there are different types of pop rivets available, such as closed-end and open-end styles. Closed-end pop rivets are self-sealing and are commonly used in aircraft and boat manufacturing. On the other hand, open-end pop rivets, also known as solid rivets, are preferred by some boat owners as they are considered stronger and less likely to loosen over time due to vibration.

Solid Brazier Head Rivets

When choosing solid brazier head rivets for an aluminum boat, it is important to consider the size, material, and head shape of the rivets. While 3/16" solid rivets may be harder to find and more expensive, they are a common size for boat repairs. The material of the rivets should be specifically designed for boats, as the type of aluminum is important for strength, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with the boat's aluminum. Brazier head rivets are recommended for their strength and similarity to factory rivets.

To install solid brazier head rivets, you will need an air hammer or impact hammer with a specialized tip for setting brazier head rivets, as well as a bucking bar or block to provide a flat, perpendicular surface during installation. Proper tools and installation techniques are key to ensuring the strength and effectiveness of the rivets.

Frequently asked questions