What are rivet cutters primarily used for?

Rivet cutters are designed specifically for cutting solid rivets to the appropriate length. In aerospace applications, precision in rivet length is crucial, as it directly affects the quality and integrity of the joint in structures. Properly cut rivets ensure that they fit correctly when being installed, which is essential for maintaining the stability and strength of the materials being joined.

Other options describe processes not associated with the primary use of rivet cutters. For example, trimming aluminum sheets pertains more to shears or snips than to rivet cutting tools. Creating holes for mounting hardware typically involves drills or punches, rather than cutting rivets. The installation of bolt assemblies is a separate operation that uses different tools, such as wrenches or torque tools, instead of rivet cutters. Understanding the specific function of rivet cutters highlights their importance in joining aerospace materials effectively.