Why are bucking bars considered the preferred method for rivet installation?

Bucking bars are considered the preferred method for rivet installation primarily because they prevent damage to the surface material. This is essential in aircraft maintenance and assembly, where the integrity and aesthetics of the materials are paramount. When riveting, especially in sensitive areas, it's crucial to exert force that shapes the rivet without marring or distorting the surrounding surfaces. Bucking bars provide a stable base to absorb the force from the rivet gun, allowing the rivet to be deformed correctly while minimizing the risk of damaging adjacent materials.

In operation, bucking bars enable a more controlled application of force, which helps maintain the quality of the work and ensures that the rivets are set correctly. Their design allows for versatility in various positions and orientations of the workpiece, further enhancing their effectiveness in preventing surface damage during rivet installation.