Riveting in the Heat

With the current heatwave sweeping across the UK, many industries are feeling the pressure. Construction and manufacturing are no exception. While were all focused on staying hydrated, its crucial not to overlook how extreme temperatures can impact our tools, materials, and most importantly, the quality and safety of our work. For those of us working with rivets, rivet nuts, and their associated tools, the heat can present some unique challenges. Metals expand when heated and contract when cooled, and this thermal expansion can affect everything from the fit of your fasteners to the performance of your tools.

1. Material Matters: Understanding Thermal Expansion

• Rivet & Rivet Nut Materials: Different metals expand and contract at different rates. While high temperatures generally wont melt the fasteners (were talking hundreds of degrees Celsius for that!), expansion can affect the pressure on the holes and lead to loosening as the material cools.
• Choosing the Right Fastener: For applications exposed to significant temperature fluctuations (e.g., outdoor structures, automotive engine bays), consider using materials specifically designed for high-temperature resistance, such as certain grades of stainless steel (e.g., 309, 310, 630). These materials offer better stability and strength in varying temperatures.

2. Tool Care in the Heat: Protecting Your Investment

Pneumatic & Battery-Powered Tools:Extreme heat can impact the performance and longevity of your rivet guns.

• Overheating: Continuous use in hot conditions can cause tools to overheat. Monitor your tools for excessive heat and allow them to cool down as needed.
• Battery Life: For cordless rivet guns, high temperatures can reduce battery efficiency and lifespan. Store batteries in a cool, dry place and avoid leaving them in direct sunlight.
• Lubrication: Ensure your tools are properly lubricated according to the manufacturers guidelines. Lubricants can help reduce friction and heat build-up during operation.
• Storage: Store your rivet guns in a cool, dry, and climate-controlled environment when not in use. A protective case or sturdy toolbox can shield them from direct heat and impacts.

3. Installation Best Practices for Hot Weather:✅

• Material Temperature: Ideally, allow materials and fasteners to reach a more stable ambient temperature before installation. Installing rivets into significantly heated material can lead to unpredictable contraction upon cooling.
• Hole Preparation: Ensure drilled holes are clean and free of burrs. Thermal expansion can make precise hole fit even more critical.
• Work Smart, Not Hard:The heat itself can be draining. Take regular breaks, stay hydrated, and ensure your team is working efficiently to minimise fatigue and maintain focus on quality.

4. Beyond the Install: Long-Term Performance

• Regular Inspection: High temperatures can accelerate corrosion and material degradation. Implement a routine inspection schedule for riveted joints, particularly in exposed applications, to check for signs of loosening, corrosion, or fatigue.
• Protective Coatings: Consider using fasteners with heat-resistant and corrosion-resistant coatings (e.g., zinc plating, ceramic coatings) to provide an extra layer of protection against environmental stressors.

The current heatwave reminds us of the importance of ada  pting our practices to environmental conditions. By being mindful of how heat affects our materials and tools, and by implementing these practical tips, you can ensure that your rivet and rivet nut installations remain strong, secure, and reliable, even when the temperature increases.

Need advice on specific fasteners for high-temperature applications? Our expert team is here to help! Contact us today.

sales@part-on.co.uk

 01214397152

Explore our range of high-performance rivet and rivet nut tools designed for durability and efficiency in all conditions.