Difference Between Hot Riveting and Cold Riveting

Published: 1 Aug 2025

Riveting is a trusted method used to permanently join two or more materials, especially metal parts, in many structural and industrial applications. Among the different techniques available, hot riveting and cold riveting are the two most commonly used. In this article, we’ll explore the Difference Between Hot Riveting and Cold Riveting in a simple, clear, and easy-to-understand way.

Hot Riveting vs Cold Riveting: What’s the Difference?

Comparison	Hot Riveting	Cold Riveting
Heat Usage	Before installation, the rivet is heated to a red-hot state, typically reaching 50% to 70% of its melting point.	The entire process is done without applying heat, keeping the rivet at room temperature.
Material Softness	Heat softens the rivets. This makes it easier to deform and shape during installation.	The rivet stays hard. More force is needed to shape it.
Tools and Equipment	The rivet must be heated in advance using an external source such as a furnace or torch.	Needs only hand tools or a rivet gun. No heating tools are required.
Force Required	Needs less hammering force. Hot metal is easier to shape.	Requires a higher force to deform the cold, hard rivet.
Time and Speed	Heating takes extra time and delays installation.	No heating means quicker work.
Grip Strength	The joint tightens naturally as the heated rivet cools.	The holding strength depends on the applied force and is generally not as tight as hot riveting.
Strength and Durability	Stronger joints. Ideal for heavy-duty and long-lasting structures.	Good strength for small or light-duty work, but not as durable under stress.
Rivet Size	Suitable for large rivets (over 10 mm). Easy to work with when hot.	Best for small rivets (under 10 mm). Larger ones are hard to shape without heat.
Vibration Resistance	Handles vibration better. The tight fit reduces joint movement.	Less effective against vibration. May loosen over time.
Appearance of Joint	Creates a clean, flush finish after cooling and shrinking.	Hard hammering can leave visible marks on the surface.
Safety	Higher risk of burns. Workers must wear heat-resistant gear.	Safer. No heat means fewer hazards on-site.
Skill Level Required	Needs skilled labor to handle heat and install rivets properly.	Easy to learn and perform with basic training.
Noise Level	Slightly quieter due to soft metal during hammering.	Louder. On impact, the hard metal produces more noise.
Energy Consumption	Uses more energy to heat the rivets.	Energy-efficient. Only needs mechanical force.
Portability	Less portable due to the heating equipment.	Portable. Can be done on-site with handheld tools.
Environmental Conditions	Not ideal for tight spaces or areas where open flames are unsafe.	Better suited for indoor or confined areas where heat is a risk.
Joint Type	Creates leakproof joints. Great for pressure vessels or tanks.	Not leak-proof. Suitable for dry or low-pressure joints.
Maintenance Needs	Last longer with fewer adjustments.	It may need tightening if the joint loosens over time.
Applications	Used in heavy structures like bridges, railways, boilers, and shipbuilding.	Common in electronics, tools, sheet metal, and light assemblies.

Conclusion

Hot riveting and cold riveting serve the same purpose—joining materials—but in very different ways. Hot riveting uses heat, offers tight and durable joints, and is ideal for large jobs. Cold riveting is quick, safe, and suitable for small or delicate work. By understanding the full difference between hot riveting and cold riveting, you can make the right choice for strength, speed, and safety.