Rivetise states that the key industries driving demand for high-performance fastening solutions include automotive, construction, aerospace, and renewable energy.
Increasing Demand for Fasteners and Rivets
The need for lightweight and stronger fasteners is continuing to grow, especially in the automotive and aerospace sectors. Recent reports highlight:
• Rivnuts and blind rivets are becoming crucial in solar panel installations due to their tensile strength and high shear.
• A 12% increase in demand for monobolts and structural rivets, particularly for electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing.
• Titanium and aluminium rivets are experiencing a 15% increase in adoption to support lightweighting and fuel efficiency goals in aerospace.
Supply Chain Shifts Impacting Fastener Availability
Fluctuations in raw material costs are affecting fastener and rivet availability. The key trends include:
• Companies investing in self-piercing rivets to replace traditional fasteners in automotive EV assembly.
• Nearshoring to minimise supply chain disruptions and reduce lead times.
• Manufacturers switching to stainless-steel and recycled aluminium rivets to ensure sustainable sourcing.
Sustainable Fastening Solutions in Manufacturing
With industries prioritising sustainable manufacturing, March 2025 reports highlight:
• Increased use of biodegradable coatings to comply with new environmental regulations in Europe and North America.
• A 30% rise in demand for eco-friendly coatings and recyclable rivets.
• Construction and automotive companies transitioning towards low-carbon rivet production to meet sustainability goals.
Automation and Smart Riveting Tools on the Rise
Manufacturers are integrating automation into production lines to boost efficiency. Reports show:
• Adoption of smart rivet guns with Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity for real-time monitoring of fastening accuracy.
• 18% market growth in robotic riveting as companies reduce manual labour dependency.
• Battery-powered rivet tools are overtaking traditional air tools due to their ease of use and portability.
Growth Across Key Industries Driving Rivet Demand
Riveting technology is advancing across a range of industries. Reports show:
• Automotive: The shift to EVs has increased reliance on lightweight fasteners and rivnuts.
• Construction: The demand for heavy-duty rivets in infrastructure projects is surging as a result of government investments.
• Aerospace: Growth in aircraft manufacturing is driving demand for high-strength blind rivets.
• Renewable Energy: Solar and wind power manufacturers are using corrosion-resistant rivets to enhance durability.
BOX: Addressing Airborne Contamination in Riveting Operations
Rivetwise points out that seasonal allergies pose a challenge in the manufacturing industry, affecting both air-powered riveting tools and overall factory efficiency. It is important to take action if a shop floor is covered in more pollen and dust than pop rivets.
How Pollen and Airborne Particles Affect Riveting Equipment
Manufacturing environments, such as those relying on pneumatic tools like air rivet guns, are susceptible to contamination from airborne particles. Rivetwise explores how spring allergens impact riveting operations:
Clogging in Pneumatic Tools
Pollen, debris, and dust can infiltrate air compressors and hoses, reducing airflow efficiency and leading to blockages in pneumatic rivet tools. This can cause misfires, inconsistent performance, and long-term tool damage.
Increased Maintenance Requirements
More airborne debris means filters in air-powered tools and ventilation systems clog faster. This leads to increased downtime for cleaning and maintenance, ultimately slowing down production lines.
Contaminated Rivet Joints
Precision is vital in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and agriculture. If airborne allergens settle on surfaces before riveting, they can compromise the integrity of rivet nuts, fasteners, and blind rivets. This can lead to weakened joints or corrosion over time.
Keeping Riveting Equipment Pollen-Free
Here are some solutions to minimise pollen-related disruptions in the manufacturing process:
Upgrade Your Air Filtration Systems
Investing in high-quality air filters for a facility’s air compressors and HVAC system can reduce airborne contaminants. HEPA filters that capture fine particles, including pollen, can keep shop air clean.
Optimise Workspaces
• Use industrial air purifiers in areas where precision riveting is crucial.
• Seal doors and windows to minimise pollen infiltration.
• Implement a routine cleaning schedule to remove dust and allergens from work surfaces.
Regular Tool Maintenance
• Check and replace air compressor filters frequently during peak allergy season.
• Clean air hoses and rivet guns regularly to prevent blockages.
• Lubricate moving parts in air-powered and electric riveting tools.
Switching to Electric Rivet Guns
Unlike pneumatic tools, electric rivet guns don’t rely on compressed air, reducing the risk of pollen-related blockages. If there are ongoing air quality issues in the facility, making this switch could be a game-changer for improving efficiency.
By upgrading tools and implementing smart maintenance strategies, workers can keep the shop floor running smoothly. Rivetwise offers a range of pop rivets, blind rivets, rivet guns, and fasteners built for efficiency. The riveting industry continues to evolve with advancements in smart automation, battery-powered tools, and sustainable fasteners.
