In structural repair, why is it important to properly measure and select rivets?

Selecting and measuring rivets accurately is crucial in structural repair because the integrity of the aircraft's structure relies heavily on the proper fit and specifications of these fasteners. Rivets must match the size and type specified for the materials and loads they will encounter. An improper choice in rivet selection or measurement could lead to insufficient strength or an inability to withstand the operational stresses the aircraft will experience. This could jeopardize the reliability of critical components, potentially compromising the entire structure's safety and performance.

While considerations like cost, assembly time, and corrosion resistance are valid aspects of the repair process, they do not outweigh the primary concern of ensuring the structural integrity of the aircraft. If the rivets are not correctly measured and selected, the structure may fail, which can have dire consequences. Therefore, maintaining maximum structural integrity is the foremost priority in the selection process.