Pin Fasteners
Fasteners such as screws, bolts, nuts, and rivets are critical in many modern industrial applications. As industrial technology has continued to evolve, the need for advanced specialized fasteners has become more and more prevalent. As such, there are now many specialty fasteners available for a broad range of specific applications. In this blog, we will discuss one such fastener: the pin.
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pin fastener refers to a cylindrical clasp of steel made to keep the components of industrial machinery tightly together or in proper alignment. Pins are generally categorized into two different configurations: quick-release pins and semi-permanent pins. As their name suggests, each type of pin is installed differently. While quick-release pins are self-contained, semi-permanent pins require a pressure tool to be both installed and removed. Quick-release pins lock into place via a spring-loaded mechanism and are most ideal for use in applications involving rapid manufacturing. There are four main types of pins: clevis pins, ground dowel pins, cotter pins, and taper pins.
Clevis Pins
These pins are designed to act similar to a hinge and are ideal for use in applications that require a mobile connection between two joined parts. For extra security, it is a good idea to attach clevis pins in place using cotter pins. This will be helpful in situations where a rotation around the shank is needed, like in fastening turnbuckles.
Clevis pins can also be used in tandem with a shackle to allow for further connection to another device.
Ground Dowel Pins
Because of their small and simple design, ground dowel pins are mostly used to align components of a machine before they are fixed together with another
type of fastener. After dowel pins are applied to align the components, they must be clamped in place while the screw holes are being drilled.
Cotter Pins
Pins of this type are most commonly used to hold fasteners in place, especially in applications where nuts and bolts are subjected to extreme stresses and are at risk of being damaged.
Cotter pins are available in 18 different sizes and are ideal for use with slotted bolts and screws. Cotter pins can also be used to hold clevis pins in place.
Taper Pins
Taper Pins are easily identifiable due to their appearance, as they feature one end with a larger diameter than the other. Depending on the application, pins of this type can include a male screw thread on the smaller end to help promote better locking in its position. Taper pins are most frequently used in mechanical engineering applications such as attaching levers to
shafts or fastening wheels to a rod.
