What is a main difference between Lockbolt/Huckbolt fasteners and standard rivets?

The main distinction between Lockbolt/Huckbolt fasteners and standard rivets primarily lies in the type of locking mechanism used. Lockbolt fasteners utilize a mechanical locking system that secures the fastener in place through the use of a collar and a pin, which grips the collar tightly once the installation is complete. This design provides a significant advantage in terms of load-bearing capacity and resistance to loosening under vibration or dynamic loads.

In contrast, standard rivets do not incorporate a locking mechanism and rely solely on the deformation of the rivet's tail, which is upset during installation to create a permanent bond. The lack of an additional locking feature in rivets can limit their performance in high-stress applications compared to the more advanced Lockbolt system.

While considerations regarding materials, collar grooves, and lengths contribute to the overall design and application of these fasteners, the specific locking mechanism is what sets Lockbolt and Huckbolt fasteners apart from standard rivets in terms of functionality and performance characteristics.