What does the suffix ‘AD’ in a rivet designation commonly indicate?

The suffix 'AD' in a rivet designation indicates that the rivet is made of an aluminum alloy. This designation is crucial in aerospace and structural applications because it helps identify the material properties, which include weight, strength, and corrosion resistance. Aluminum alloys are widely used in airframe construction due to their favorable strength-to-weight ratio and ability to withstand environmental elements, making them ideal for aerospace applications. Understanding rivet designations allows engineers and technicians to select the appropriate fasteners based on the specific requirements of the materials being joined, ensuring structural integrity and performance.

When considering other potential suffixes, solid structural rivets would have a different designation focusing more on their structural capability, while stainless steel rivets typically bear designations that reflect the specific properties of stainless steel. High strength rivets may also have alternative designations indicating their specific use and strength characteristics. Each material and type of rivet serves distinct purposes, which is why the 'AD' designation is specifically linked to aluminum alloys.