Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining is a critical industrial process that has revolutionised production sectors worldwide. The technology has become an essential element of various manufacturing applications, including the creation of rivets. This article aims to explore CNC turning precision engineering and delve into how it applies to creating different types of rivets.
CNC turning forms part of CNC machining processes – automated operations dictated by numerical commands decoded by computer programming. The CNC system facilitates the transformation of raw materials through cutting, drilling, or turning by removing unnecessary parts to mould components to their intended design specifications. As such, CNC turning allows for highly precise construction of complex shapes unavailable with other machining methods.
Rivets, instrumental in securely connecting two separate items together, have been employed in industries ranging from aviation to fashion. Various types of rivets are available depending on application needs, including blind rivets, solid rivets, tubular and semi-tubular rivets, as well as split and drive rivets. The vast variety requires equally diverse production techniques, making CNC turning a valuable asset in shaping these small but vital components.
Producing different types of rivets using CNC Turning:
1. Solid Rivets
Solid rivets apply to situations requiring high load-carrying capacity. Fundamentally composed of a single piece of material like steel, copper, or aluminium, solid rivets exhibit robust strength and durability. To produce these rivets, CNC lathe machines operate under programmed instructions, turning and removing layers from the metal rod until achieving the desired dimensions. Then, they make the head shape using forming or heading tools before subjecting it to rigorous quality checkpoints.
2. Blind Rivets
Blind rivets are unique due to one-sided installation capability. Their production involves CNC turning, ideal due to its accuracy and efficiency. The mandrel’s body undergoes turning and then joins it to the rivet shell, which has also transformed via CNC turning. This joining results in a pre-assembled rivet ready to use.
3. Tubular and Semi-Tubular Rivets
Tubular and semi-tubular rivets bear considerable resemblance to solid rivets but hollow at least halfway up. They are meticulously crafted using CNC turning for a perfect cylindrical finish. Then, the hollow portion is drilled out, resulting in either a fully or partially hollow tube depending on whether it is tubular or semi-tubular.
4. Split and Drive Rivets
Initially shaped by CNC turning, split rivets derive their name from the split leg near the head end. Once turned to the required length and width, further processing involves splitting the shank before bending them in opposite directions—thus forming the “split” characteristic.
In conclusion, CNC turning plays a pivotal role in producing rivets across all its types. Its precision engineering capability ensures accurate and consistent products, driving efficiency and cost-effectiveness long term. With benefits spanning reduced wastage, faster turnaround times, and heightened productivity, this innovative technology proves invaluable in modern-day manufacturing settings. Furthermore, as factory automation continues to escalate, CNC machining’s importance will likely accentuate, potentially unlocking new possibilities within rivet production and beyond.
