As of 2025, many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) like Boeing (BMS specifications) and Airbus (ABN specifications) have moved toward in-house standards. However, NAS523 remains active for:
If an engineering order calls out NAS523, you must use a genuine 5056 rivet or an approved equivalent (e.g., NAS523A – a newer revision with tighter tolerances). nas523 rivet code pdf
The NAS523 standard helps you break down the confusing string of letters and numbers found on a blueprint. Here is the logic you would find in the document: Deep Article: NAS523 Rivet Code (PDF) The Complete
Example Part Number: MS20470AD4-5
The NAS (National Aerospace Standard) prefix indicates a fastener designed for high-performance aircraft environments. Specifically, NAS523 refers to a solid, protruding head rivet made of corrosion-resistant steel (typically A286 or similar superalloy). These rivets are used in airframe structures that require high shear strength and resistance to elevated temperatures (up to 800°F/427°C). General Aviation repair (Cessna 172/182, Piper PA-28 series
Unlike common aluminum rivets (e.g., NAS523's aluminum counterpart, NAS523-XX, though rare), the steel version is found in engine nacelles, wing attachment points, and supersonic aircraft skins. The "code" in "rivet code" refers to the alphanumeric shorthand used on engineering drawings and bill of materials (BOM) to denote exact dimensions, material condition, and coating.