Coated Fasteners
Benefits
The main and foremost benefits are the elimination of wet-sealant installation with equivalent or better corrosion protection along with improved fatigue strength clean installation, and the large levels of cost savings primarily in reduced labor-hours. These labor-hours are associated with the practice of applying the wet-sealant to the rivet installations and the resulting clean-up required for the excess sealant, additional cost savings accompanying the elimination of solvents and hazardous waste used and produced during this procedure may also be realized.
Testing
Comparison tests run on both methods showed in all cases the coated rivet met, or exceeded existing requirements for wet sealant installation. Test methods used include Salt fog per ASTM B 117 for 2000 hours; Beach exposure for 6 months and 2 years, corrosion fatigue, thermal cycle/flexure, as well as coating adhesion and resiliency. An increase of 25%-60% in joint fatigue life was obtained due to improved preload, hole fill, and decreased levels of fretting during installation.
Potential Applications
Coated aluminum-alloy fasteners can save steps and reduce cost anywhere wet or dry aluminum fasteners are installed.
Aerospace Rivet Manufacturers Corp., 17425 Railroad St, City of Industry, CA 91748. Tel: 626-646-2150; Fax: 626-646-2160.