Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Rivet and Cold-Heading Wire and Rods

B316/B316M-10: Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Rivet and Cold-Heading Wire and Rods

When precision and reliability are paramount in fastener manufacturing, specifying the correct raw material is absolutely essential. For engineers and designers working with aluminum and its alloys for rivets and cold-headed components, ASTM B316/B316M-10 provides the authoritative framework to ensure material integrity and consistent performance. This comprehensive standard is a cornerstone for industries demanding high-quality, formable aluminum materials.

What is B316/B316M-10?

ASTM B316/B316M-10 is an industry-leading standard that defines the requirements for aluminum and aluminum-alloy wire and rod specifically intended for use in cold-heading operations. Originating from ASTM International, this specification ensures that the supplied materials possess the necessary mechanical and chemical properties to undergo forming processes like riveting and bolt manufacturing without failure, guaranteeing the quality of the final product.

Scope & Purpose

This proven standard governs the supply of aluminum and aluminum-alloy wire and rod in various alloys and tempers suitable for cold-heading applications. It details requirements for chemical composition, mechanical properties (though specific tests are referenced), and general quality suitable for forming. The scope is specifically limited to wire and rod for cold-heading; it does not cover materials intended for other manufacturing processes like machining or extrusion unless specified as a secondary application.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Materials Engineers, Manufacturing Engineers, Quality Control Inspectors, Production Managers, and Design Engineers involved in fastener production.
• • Industries affected: Metal Fabrication, General Manufacturing, Aerospace, Automotive, and any sector utilizing cold-headed aluminum fasteners.
• • Compliance nature: Voluntary, but often mandated by contract or purchase orders to ensure material quality and supplier accountability.
• • Enforcement: Typically enforced through quality assurance programs, third-party inspections, and material certifications required by purchasers.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard requires that aluminum and aluminum-alloy wire and rod intended for cold-heading applications must conform to specified alloy and temper designations, often referencing ANSI H35.1/H35.1M. Professionals must ensure that the material's chemical composition falls within the limits defined in the specification's tables to guarantee its suitability for cold-forming. Key provisions include adherence to specific manufacturing processes (extrusion, rolling, drawing) and the establishment of inspection lot definitions for quality control. The standard also mandates clear ordering information to prevent misunderstandings regarding material specifications.

Related Standards & References

ASTM B316/B316M-10 often works in conjunction with other ASTM standards. For instance, Specification B211 and Specification B221 provide details on aluminum and aluminum-alloy bar, rod, and wire produced via different methods, offering complementary material options. Test Methods B557 and B557M are crucial for tension testing, while Test Method B565 specifically addresses shear testing for rivets and cold-heading wire, providing the means to verify compliance with the performance characteristics implied by B316/B316M-10.