The results of measurement technology northwest's (MTNW) Phase I program have significantly narrowed the questions with respect to the practicality of Al-Fe-Ce rivets. MTNW has demonstrated that these rivets can be fabricated and installed. When installed they exhibit superior strength at elevated temperatures in comparison with standard high strength aluminum rivets. Excellent rivets have consistently been installed on a hydraulic squeeze press. Good rivet quality has also been achieved with hand bucking and low voltage electromagnetic riveter if the rivet heads are preheated to about 500 deg f at the time of installation. Warm forming was necessary to overcome the low ductility and fracture toughness characteristic of the as received study material. The goal of MTNW's Phase II is to develop the Al-Fe-Ce rivet into a technically and commercially viable fastener. To meet this goal MTNW proposes to address material development, rivet production, rivet installation, and material and rivet testing. MTNW will conduct rivet installation, testing, metallurgical analysis, and development efforts in installation techniques and secondary heat treatment. Alcoa will be subcontracted to carry out material development to yield a Al-Fe-Ce alloy optimized for riveting. Alcoa has expressed confidence in developing Al-Fe-Ce wire with adequate malleability for room temperature hand bucking. Lockheed-California will serve as a consultant throughout the program, and will be subcontracted to conduct independent testing as a verification of MTNW's results.
