What can happen if rivets are improperly spaced too close to the edge?

When rivets are spaced too close to the edge of a metal sheet, the primary concern is that the structural integrity of the material can be compromised. This improper spacing can result in stress concentrations that may lead to cracking or elongation of the holes around the rivets. Over time, this can cause the sheet to pull away from the rivets, weakening the overall assembly. Such failures can be critical in aviation components where strength and reliability are essential.

Maintaining proper rivet edge distance is crucial in order to distribute the loads evenly and avoid localized stress that could lead to failure. Properly spaced rivets help ensure that the strength of the assembly is maximized and that the connections maintain their integrity under operational conditions.