Rivets vs threaded fasteners

[InFlight]

It is important to have the capability to design for, and install both threaded fasteners and rivets. There are some situations like blind affixing structure to box or tube sections that are difficult without rivets. Depending on the situation - either could be used, and both would survive a season of robotic competition.

I would advocate only using Aluminum Rivets when possible. Steel rivets are a complete nightmare to remove from aluminum without a really sharp hardened bit.

We try to standardize on only a few fastener options: #6 Rivets, 10-24 & 14-20 UNC bolts. It makes it easier for the CAD team to know which clearance holes to use, and it limits the number drill bits in use (#10, #7, H) so there are less mistakes on hole sizes.