The code specifically applies to fasteners that are permanently deformed during installation, meaning they must be destroyed to be removed. Locating Points:

The code is a standard practice in the aviation industry used to provide a shorthand identification of fasteners—specifically rivets—on engineering drawings. It uses a distinctive "crosshair" symbol divided into four quadrants (NW, NE, SW, SE) to detail the rivet's part number, diameter, length, and installation method. NAS523 Rivet Code Quadrants The code is read as follows:

In essence, NAS523 dictates how often a manufacturing facility must test its chemical tanks (like anodizing, alodining, or plating lines) and what the acceptance criteria are. Without this standard, aerospace components risk corrosion, fatigue failure, and catastrophic non-conformance.