What defines a 'solid shank rivet'?

A solid shank rivet is defined as a rivet made of a single piece of material. This construction provides the rivet with a strong and durable connection point between two or more parts of an assembly, making it ideal for applications where a reliable and lasting bond is necessary. Solid shank rivets are often used in high-stress environments, such as in aircraft structures, due to their ability to withstand significant loads without failure.

This type of rivet contrasts with hollow core rivets, which have an internal cavity that can reduce strength and is not suited for applications requiring maximum robustness. Additionally, solid shank rivets are not designed for easy removal; rather, they are intended to provide a permanent connection, which is essential in aerospace applications where safety and structural integrity are paramount. Their size can vary, but defining them simply as a larger type of rivet overlooks the critical aspect of their solid construction that contributes to their performance and reliability.