Short-term design methods evaluation for single self-piercing rivet joint at elevated temperatures

The static mechanical properties of high-strength aluminum alloy and self-piercing rivet (SPR) joints were investigated through coupon tensile tests and tensile shear tests across a temperature range from − 50 to 300 °C. The study focused on 6061-T6 aluminum alloy, which was used as the substrate for both the coupon tensile and SPR specimens. The results demonstrated that the strength variation of SPR joints at different temperatures is intrinsically linked to the properties of the substrate material. Based on these findings, a high-temperature design code for 6061-T6 SPR joints was developed, which offers a practical framework for evaluating their mechanical performance. This study highlights the potential of SPR joints for application in construction structures, including scenarios requiring fire-resistant capacity, thereby broadening their suitability for use in prefabricated lightweight and high-performance buildings.