What is considered good practice when installing acrylic plastics with rivets?

Using adequate spacers to prevent excessive tightening is considered good practice when installing acrylic plastics with rivets because it helps to maintain the integrity of the material. Acrylic plastics are sensitive to stress and can crack or deform if too much pressure is applied. When rivets are tightened excessively, they can create stress points that compromise the structural reliability of the acrylic.

By incorporating spacers, the rivets can be secured without over-compressing the acrylic, allowing for a secure connection while preserving the material’s performance. This method ensures that the acrylic can accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, preventing potential damage.

Rubber washers may provide some cushioning but do not specifically address the issue of stress concentration. Welding is not suitable for acrylic plastics as it can cause melting and deformation. Drilling larger holes can lead to instability of the rivet connection and should be avoided when precise fastening is required.