What is the purpose of a rivet in construction?

A rivet is a mechanical fastener that serves the primary purpose of permanently joining parts together. When riveted, two or more materials are secured by deforming the rivet, which creates a strong, lasting bond. This permanence makes rivets ideal for use in situations where structural integrity is critical, such as in bridges, buildings, and aircraft structures.

The design of a rivet ensures that it can withstand various loads and stresses without loosening or separating, making it an efficient choice for creating durable connections in construction. Once installed, the rivet cannot be easily removed without damaging the joined materials, which is a key characteristic that differentiates rivets from other fastening methods like screws or bolts that allow for disassembly.

In contrast, other options mention features such as removable connections, flexibility in joints, and systems that require adjustable tension, which are typically associated with different types of fasteners or connection methods that serve distinct purposes apart from what rivets are designed to accomplish.