Fastener vs. Rivet — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 7, 2024
A fastener is a broad term for devices used to join objects, such as bolts, screws, or nails, while a rivet is a specific type of fastener that forms a permanent connection by being deformed after insertion.
Difference Between Fastener and Rivet
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A fastener encompasses a wide range of devices used to join materials temporarily or permanently, including screws, bolts, and clips. On the other hand, a rivet is a type of permanent fastener that’s driven through holes in the materials and then deformed to secure them tightly.
Fasteners can often be removed or replaced without damaging the materials they join, making them suitable for adjustable or temporary connections, while rivets, once set, require drilling out to be removed, providing a durable, permanent bond.
Fasteners like bolts and screws are versatile and can be used in various settings with different materials, whereas rivets are typically used where high-strength, lasting joints are needed, such as in aerospace, automotive, or construction applications.
Fasteners may also include specialized connectors like clips and anchors for specific purposes, whereas rivets often involve manual or pneumatic tools for installation.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Device that joins or affixes materials
Type of fastener that forms a permanent joint
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Types
Screws, bolts, clips, nails
Solid, blind, tubular, drive
Removal
Often removable or replaceable
Requires drilling out for removal
Use Case
Temporary or permanent joints
Permanent joints
Installation
Hand tools or power tools
Manual or pneumatic riveting tools
Compare with Definitions
Fastener
A device like a screw or nail used to hold objects together.
The mechanic used fasteners to secure the engine parts.
Rivet
A permanent fastener that deforms to create a tight bond.
Aircraft panels are typically joined with rivets.
Fastener
Can be temporary or permanent in its joint.
Clips and anchors are often used as temporary fasteners.
Rivet
Driven through holes and set by hammering or pneumatic tools.
The builder used a rivet gun to fasten the plates.
Fastener
Suitable for various industries and applications.
Fasteners are used extensively in the construction industry.
Rivet
Cannot be removed without damaging the material.
Removing the rivet required drilling it out.
Fastener
Generally requires matching nuts or pre-threaded holes.
The technician needed the right fastener for the assembly.
Rivet
Offers a strong bond for high-stress applications.
Rivets are commonly used in structural frameworks.
Fastener
Adjustable and replaceable as needed.
The bolts were replaced with longer fasteners.
Rivet
Available in various types, such as blind or solid.
The blind rivet allowed access from only one side of the panel.
Fastener
A fastener (US English) or fastening (UK English) is a hardware device that mechanically joins or affixes two or more objects together. In general, fasteners are used to create non-permanent joints; that is, joints that can be removed or dismantled without damaging the joining components.
Rivet
A rivet is a permanent mechanical fastener. Before being installed, a rivet consists of a smooth cylindrical shaft with a head on one end.
Fastener
A device, such as a clip, pin, or clasp, that attaches something firmly to something else.
Rivet
A short metal pin or bolt for holding together two plates of metal, its headless end being beaten out or pressed down when in place
A rectangular plate containing an iron rivet
A device for punching rivet holes
Fastener
A device, such as a seat belt, that secures a person or object.
Rivet
Join or fasten (plates of metal) with a rivet or rivets
The linings are bonded, not riveted, to the brake shoes for longer wear
The riveted plates of the floor
Fastener
Something or someone that fastens.
Rivet
Hold (someone or something) fast so as to make them incapable of movement
The grip on her arm was firm enough to rivet her to the spot
Fastener
Mechanically, any device that fastens; especially, a collective term for items such as screws, nuts, washers, clasps, bolts and the like.
Rivet
A metal bolt or pin having a head on one end, inserted through aligned holes in the pieces to be joined and then hammered on the plain end so as to form a second head.
Fastener
One who, or that which, makes fast or firm.
Rivet
To fasten or secure, especially with a rivet or rivets.
Fastener
A person who fastens or makes fast;
He found the door fastened and wondered who the fastener was
Rivet
To hammer and bend or flatten the headless end of (a nail or bolt) so as to fasten something.
Fastener
Restraint that attaches to something or holds something in place
Rivet
To fix the attention of (someone)
The audience was riveted by the suspense.
Rivet
To engross or hold (the gaze or attention, for example).
Rivet
A cylindrical mechanical fastener that attaches multiple parts together by fitting through a hole and deforming the head(s) at either end.
Rivet
(figuratively) Any fixed point or certain basis.
Rivet
(obsolete) A light kind of footman's plate armour; an almain rivet. Category:en:Armor
Rivet
(transitive) To attach or fasten parts by using rivets.
Rivet
(transitive) To install rivets.
Rivet
To command the attention of.
Rivet
To make firm or immovable.
Terror riveted him to the spot.
Rivet
A metallic pin with a head, used for uniting two plates or pieces of material together, by passing it through them and then beating or pressing down the point so that it shall spread out and form a second head; a pin or bolt headed or clinched at both ends.
With busy hammers closing rivets up.
Rivet
To fasten with a rivet, or with rivets; as, to rivet two pieces of iron.
Rivet
To spread out the end or point of, as of a metallic pin, rod, or bolt, by beating or pressing, so as to form a sort of head.
Rivet
Hence, to fasten firmly; to make firm, strong, or immovable; as, to rivet friendship or affection.
Rivet and nail me where I stand, ye powers!
Thus his confidence was riveted and confirmed.
Rivet
Ornament consisting of a circular rounded protuberance (as on a vault or shield or belt)
Rivet
Heavy pin having a head at one end and the other end being hammered flat after being passed through holes in the pieces that are fastened together
Rivet
Direct one's attention on something;
Please focus on your studies and not on your hobbies
Rivet
Fasten with a rivet or rivets
Rivet
Hold (someone's attention);
The discovery of the skull riveted the paleontologists
Common Curiosities
What makes a rivet a type of fastener?
Rivets are fasteners because they secure materials together, even if in a specific, permanent manner.
Are all fasteners designed to be removable?
No, some fasteners, like rivets, are permanent and can't be removed easily.
Do fasteners include welding?
No, fasteners generally refer to mechanical joining methods rather than fusing processes like welding.
Which tools are needed for fastening screws?
Screws require a screwdriver or drill for installation.
What is a blind rivet?
A blind rivet is a type that can be installed from one side of the material, ideal for difficult-to-reach places.
Are rivets suitable for high-vibration environments?
Yes, rivets are excellent in high-vibration areas because they won't loosen.
Where are rivets typically used?
Rivets are often used in aerospace, automotive, and construction for strong, lasting joints.
What is the main advantage of using a rivet over other fasteners?
Rivets provide a permanent, secure bond suitable for high-stress applications.
Can a rivet be reused once it's removed?
No, once a rivet is removed, it can't be reused and must be replaced.
Is a screw considered a fastener?
Yes, screws are fasteners because they secure materials together.
What's the main disadvantage of rivets compared to bolts?
Rivets are not easily removed, while bolts can be unscrewed if needed.
Are rivets suitable for plastic components?
Yes, rivets can secure plastic parts, though special plastic rivets might be used.
What materials are commonly used for rivets?
Rivets are often made from steel, aluminum, copper, or brass.
What type of fasteners is often used in DIY projects?
Screws and nails are popular fasteners in DIY projects due to their simplicity and adjustability.
Can fasteners like bolts rust over time?
Yes, bolts can rust unless they're made from rust-resistant materials like stainless steel.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
