The MS20470AD3-8 is a universal head solid aircraft rivet made from 2117-T4 aluminum alloy (AD series), designed for structural sheet metal assembly in certified aircraft airframes.

The “3” indicates a 3/32" diameter, while the “-8” dash number corresponds to a 1/2" length, making it a standard mid-length rivet used for thin aluminum sheet stacks and light structural joints. It is part of the widely used MS20470 / AN470 rivet family.

This rivet is installed using a pneumatic rivet gun and bucking bar, requiring access to both sides of the structure. During installation, the rivet is plastically deformed to form a shop head, creating a permanent mechanical joint used in aircraft skin, ribs, and bracket assemblies.

The 2117-T4 (AD) alloy provides higher strength than “A” series rivets, with good fatigue resistance and corrosion protection due to its heat-treated and self-aging properties. It is commonly used in general aviation structural applications where reliability and consistency are critical.

Key features include:

MS20470 universal head solid aircraft rivet
Size: 3/32" diameter × 1/2" length (-8 dash number)
Material: 2117-T4 aluminum alloy (AD series)
Approx. ~2300–2400 rivets per 1 lb pack
High shear strength (~26,000 PSI typical for AD rivets)
Heat-treated self-aging aluminum alloy (improves strength after installation)
Universal head suitable for primary and secondary aircraft structures
Requires rivet gun + bucking bar (double-sided access)
Corrosion-resistant coating (MIL-SPEC chromate / MIL-DTL-5541 typical)
Standard replacement for AN470AD3-8 in aircraft maintenance
Common in fuselage skins, ribs, brackets, and light structural assemblies
Correct grip selection is critical for proper shop head formation