Pin Fasteners
Fasteners such as screws, bolts, nuts and rivets are critical in many modern industrial applications. As industrial technology continues to evolve, the need for advanced specialty fasteners is becoming more common. As a result, many specialized fasteners are now available for a wide range of specific applications. In this blog, we will discuss one such fastener: the pin.
A pin fastener refers to a cylindrical steel buckle used to hold parts of industrial machinery tightly together or in proper alignment. Pins are generally divided 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 install and remove. The quick-release pins are locked in place by a spring-loaded mechanism and are best used in applications involving rapid manufacturing. There are four main types of pins: clevis pins, ground pins, cotter pins, and tapered pins.
Earring Pins
Designed to resemble a hinge, these pins are ideal for applications that require a moving connection between two connected components. For added security, it is best to use a cotter pin to hold the clevis pin in place. This is helpful in situations where rotation around the handle is required, such as when tightening a turnbuckle. The clevis pins can also be used in tandem with the shackle to allow further connection to another device.
Ground Pin
Because of their small and simple design, grounding dowels are primarily used to align machine components before securing them together with another type of fastener. After aligning the components with the dowels, they must be clamped in place while drilling.
Cotter Pin
This type of pin is most commonly used to hold fasteners in place, especially in applications where nuts and bolts are subject to extreme stress and risk damage. 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 the clevis pins in place.
Tapered Pin
Tapered pins are easily recognizable by their appearance because one end of them is larger in diameter than the other. Depending on the application, this type of pin can include an external thread on the smaller end to help better lock its position. Tapered pins are most commonly used in mechanical engineering applications, such as connecting levers to shafts or securing wheels to rods.
