Bridge rivets are fasteners historically used to join structural steel components in the construction of metal bridges.
Rivets were a fundamental part of how early steel bridges were assembled. As stated in the reference, rivets were nearly always used to fasten together built-up structural steel on bridges. This involved joining plates, angles, and other steel shapes to form larger structural elements like girders or trusses.
Function and Use in Bridge Construction
The primary function of bridge rivets was to create strong, permanent connections between steel parts. This was achieved by inserting a heated rivet through aligned holes in the steel members and then forming a head on the tail end using a pneumatic hammer or other tools. As the rivet cooled, it contracted, pulling the steel plates tightly together and forming a secure joint.
Rivets were also frequently used for the connections that hold the parts of metal bridges together, ensuring the structural integrity of the entire span.
- Key Uses:
- Joining plates and shapes to build up girders, columns, and chords.
- Connecting beams to columns or other beams.
- Fastening stiffeners, gusset plates, and other reinforcing elements.
- Creating secure points for joining larger bridge sections.
The Decline of Bridge Rivets
While ubiquitous in the past, today, rivets are not used in the construction of new bridges. Modern bridge construction primarily relies on welding or high-strength bolts for connections. These methods offer advantages in terms of speed, cost, and strength compared to traditional riveting.
- Why the Shift?
- Welding provides continuous connections, often resulting in lighter structures.
- High-strength bolts offer reliable, inspectable, and sometimes reusable connections.
- Riveting is a labor-intensive and relatively noisy process.
Although no longer used in new builds, millions of rivets still hold together historical bridges worldwide, standing as a testament to their durability and the engineering practices of the past.
