Which factor is not considered when determining minimum rivet spacing?

When determining minimum rivet spacing, several factors are taken into account to ensure structural integrity and load distribution. Among these, material thickness, rivet diameter, and the type of material are critical considerations.

Material thickness directly influences how closely rivets can be spaced. Thicker materials can accommodate closer spacing as they can handle greater stresses without failure. Rivet diameter is significant because it affects the strength of the joint; larger rivets can withstand higher loads, which may allow for different spacing requirements. The type of material is also crucial, as different materials exhibit varying levels of strength and ductility, which directly impacts how rivets are distributed.

Rivet length, however, is typically not a factor in determining minimum rivet spacing. While rivet length is important for ensuring the rivet can grip the materials being joined adequately and create a strong bond, it does not play a role in the spacing requirements themselves. Minimum spacing is concerned more with the relationship of rivets to one another and their interaction with the materials joined rather than the length of the rivet being used. Thus, rivet length does not influence minimum spacing considerations.