What are Hi-Shear rivets primarily used for?

Hi-Shear rivets are specifically designed for applications where strong and reliable joints are needed, particularly in aerospace and aviation contexts. They are used to join thick gauge sheets together due to their ability to withstand high shear loads. The unique design of these rivets allows them to effectively distribute loads across a broader area and maintain integrity under extreme conditions, which is crucial in ensuring the structural soundness of aircraft components.

The other options focus on different types of joining methods or functions that do not align with the primary characteristics of Hi-Shear rivets. For instance, while they may also join lightweight materials or nonstructural components, their distinguished capability is most recognized in riveting applications involving thicker materials needing robust fastening solutions. This ability to securely fasten thicker materials is what sets their use apart in the context of aerospace applications.