Recent development of the novel riveting processes

Riveting process is widely used to join sheets by using rivets. It can be used in many fields due to its simple process, easy disassembly, and high reliability. In addition, it has incomparable advantage in the joining of light alloy, composite, and dissimilar materials. Conventional riveting belongs to mechanical joining. However, with the advancing of technology, it has been modified and combined to other joining techniques so as to improve mechanical properties of joint. The state-of-art riveting technologies in recent years are reviewed. Modified methods which originate from existing riveting techniques, such as reshaped riveting, restored riveting, self-piercing riveting, clinch riveting, electromagnetic riveting, flow drill screwing, and rivtac, are introduced. Many types of welding have been combined to riveting. Hybrid methods such as laser-arc welding assisted riveting, resistance rivet welding, friction riveting, friction stir blind riveting, friction self-piercing riveting, and friction element welding are also introduced. Latest researches on different riveting techniques have been listed. Forming mechanism of each riveting technique has been discussed. Process parameters that affect mechanical properties of joint have been analyzed. Merits and demerits of each technique have been introduced. Each craft has its own features and can be applied in certain circumstances. Some suggestions on future orientation of riveting are given in text to assist further investigation.