Failure modes in riveted joints – which types can occur under load? A riveted joint may experience which of the following failure modes when loaded?

Introduction / Context:
Assessing riveted (and bolted) joints requires checking several limit states. The joint capacity is the minimum of plate tearing, rivet shear, rivet/plate bearing, and edge-distance related failures.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Concentric tensile loading across a riveted line.
• Adequate fabrication but finite edge distances and pitches.

Concept / Approach:
Typical checks include: (1) Plate net-section tearing across holes, (2) Rivet shear, (3) Bearing of rivet against plate or plate crushing at hole, (4) Block shear and edge tearing (splitting) if edge distance is inadequate. Any of these can govern and must be verified.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Evaluate plate net-section strength → prevent tearing.Evaluate rivet shear capacity → avoid shear failure.Evaluate bearing on plate and rivet → avoid localized crushing.Check edge distances and stagger → avoid splitting or block shear.

Verification / Alternative check:
Design codes specify minimum pitch and edge distances and provide nominal strengths for the above limit states. The controlling capacity is the least of these checks.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Each individual failure can occur; the comprehensive and therefore correct selection is “All the above.”

Common Pitfalls:
Ignoring edge-distance rules, using nominal rivet diameter instead of hole diameter for net section, and overlooking block shear paths.

Final Answer:
All the above