Which aluminum alloys are used for icebox rivets?

• A. 6061-T6
• B. 2017-T and 2024-T aluminum alloys
• C. 1100
• D. 7075-T6

Answer: (B)

Icebox rivets use alloys that can be formed into rivets and then heat-treated to achieve high shear strength, while still being workable with standard riveting tools. The 2xxx-series aluminum alloys, especially 2017-T and 2024-T, are chosen because they strike a good balance between strength after setting and ductility during installation. They can be formed into rivets that fill the hole well and achieve reliable joints, and they maintain strong performance in the moist, cold environment of an icebox.

Other alloys don’t fit as well for rivet stock in this application. Very soft alloys like 1100 won’t provide enough strength for the riveted joints. While 6061-T6 is versatile, it isn’t the preferred rivet material in icebox assemblies because it doesn’t offer the same combination of high shear strength after installation and ease of forming as the 2xxx-series. Highly strong alloys like 7075-T6 can be more brittle and harder to form into rivets, which makes them less suitable for standard icebox rivets.

So, the best choice for icebox rivets is the 2017-T and 2024-T aluminum alloys.