What is the minimum edge distance required for aircraft rivets?

The minimum edge distance required for aircraft rivets is specified as two times the diameter of the rivet shank. This guideline ensures the structural integrity of the materials being joined. Adequate edge distance minimizes the risk of tearing or shearing at the edge of the material under load and helps maintain the strength and stability of the assembly. If the edge distance is too small, there is a greater chance for material failure right at the edge, which could lead to catastrophic consequences in aircraft structures.

Following this standard, designers and engineers can better distribute loads and stress across the fastened components, improving overall safety and performance of the riveted joints. Thus, adhering to the requirement of two times the rivet diameter is crucial in aircraft design and manufacturing processes.