Rivets: Steel or Aluminum?

[SSDiv6]

Originally Posted by FireSale

Yes, but this is more true of stainless steel and aluminum than regular carbon steel and aluminum. Water must be in contact with both metals to create this "battery" effect so I don't really think it's an issue with a race car. Using aluminum rivets on the aluminum panels would mean trading the risk of corrosion for the risk of vibration failure.

You do not need water to create on dissimilar materials; it can be reactive. As an example, when steel fasteners are used to affix Carbon Fiber parts or components, the carbon will cause steel to corrode. The proper way to affix CF parts is to use Titanium fasteners or install steel or aluminum fasteners wet with a Zinc based primer. Depending on the chemistry of the metal, any metal will react with other metals or materials.

[Damon]

The longevity of metal cases largely depends on the corrosion resistance of the product's materials. An oxide film forms on the surface of aluminum sheets immediately after they leave the forming line. Its presence protects the metal against corrosion traces due to high humidity and prolonged contact with water. Steel is much inferior to aluminum in terms of corrosion resistance. Therefore, chromium and nickel are added to such raw materials at the melting stage, which turns the alloy into stainless steel. Nevertheless, I would give preference to steel materials. For example, I recently bought one at https://www.scrooz.com.au/hardware/joist-hangers/.

[Mike Jones]

You can put a little aluminum paint/primer in the hole. Outside too, if you don`t mind it. Then wipe it neatly.

[SSDiv6]

Originally Posted by Mike Jones

You can put a little aluminum paint/primer in the hole. Outside too, if you don`t mind it. Then wipe it neatly.

Yes. It has been a standard practice in aviation for decades.