16 Types of Pins and Their Uses
The use of pins is observed in different industries which cater to their day-to-day operations. These pins are available in different shapes as well as sizes, and each of these has a unique purpose.
This guide offers a detailed insight into the types of pins, so let's go through it.
What is a Pin Fastener?
Pins are a type of fastener that helps hold components in place. Many industries use pins for different operations, and they are available in different materials, sizes, and shapes.
There are two categories of pins: semi-permanent or quick release. The semi-permanent pins require pressure for installation and removal. Meanwhile, quick release pins are fast and easy.
The manufacturing industries use pins to hold different parts together during the assembly process.
16 Types of Pins and Their Uses
There are 16 types of pins, and each of these and their uses are provided below.
Cotter Pins
Cotter pins are very simple pins that have two prongs. These are wire pins and can hold machine parts together so that they do not lose over time.
Dowel Pins
Dowel pins are meant to hold the parts of a machine lined up together, and these are very simple forms of fasteners that are used in the automobile and furniture industries. These pins are precise and strong.
Lynch Pins
Lynch pins are used in equipment where components need adjustment for protection against scattering or falling off. These are handy pins and are composed of locking snaps for assembling purposes.
Spring Pins
Spring pins are cylindrical and can be used to align components. These pins are used inwards as well as outwards to secure parts together. They are made using metal strips, which are rolled and used in assembling processes.
Snap Pins
Snap pins create a very effective joint, and these are very easy to use. They are used in applications where nuts and screws cannot be used for holding components together.
Wire Lock Pins
Wire lock pins are used widely in various industries because they can remove or adjust accessories present on equipment. These pins are a combination of clevis and cotter pins and have multiple measurements.
Taper Pins
Taper pins help align machine components that are frequently assembled and disassembled together. These pins have a narrow shape on one of their ends, and they are wear-resistant.
Handle Pins
L-handle pins are lockable pins that help join accessories and parts of the equipment. These can be installed easily and even can be removed. They offer reliability, safety, and retention slides into the place of installation, and can be locked by twisting the handle.
Clevis Pins
Clevis pins have a head and pin. These are available in different layouts used for connecting equipment components.
These are used in construction, automobile, and marine industries and are suitable for applications where wheel alignment doesn't need high precision.
Spring Plungers
Spring plungers are suitable for connecting components in a small space. They can be used as indexing or positioning pins and are made with steel consisting of zinc plating.
Detent Pins
Detent pins can be opted for separation or adjustment of components together. They have a threaded layout and a pull ring, which supports ease of use.
They are made using stainless steel or low-carbon steel, which makes them corrosion-resistant and durable.
Retractable Spring Latch Pins
A retractable spring latch pin is suitable for high-stress applications as it can hold the latch in place and can be removed and installed easily. It has a steel case with zinc plating.
Three-Point Pins
Three-point pins compose a range of pins that are used in connecting agriculture equipment with the tractor.
Hitch Pins
Hitch pins are used to join equipment used for lawns and agriculture, and they also connect handles and recliners to the furniture.
Bent Pins
Bent pins are used to connect components that have a round shaft. These pins are equipped with a curvature that they can easily suit such applications.
Groove Pins
Groove pins are widely used in different applications and are a type of solid press-fit fastener that helps in pivot levers, locking devices, and even locating elements.
How are Pin Fasteners Made?
Pin fasteners are manufactured through different processes, and these are as follows:
Mecanizado CNC
En CNC machining process helps create the required shape of the pin and removes the material from the metal. The machining process is suitable for small pins, which need accuracy and details.
There are different materials that can be machined into manufactured pins, such as aluminum, steel, and brass.
Once the material is chosen, the block is placed in the CNC machine, and it costs the materials to achieve the desired shape. Once machined, it is inspected for quality and precision.
Stamping
The stamping process is suitable when larger sizes of pins are required for manufacturing. This process allows for the quick and mass production of pins. The metal sheet is subjected to the die with pressure and takes the shape of the pin.
Forging
In the process of forging, the metal bar is heated and shaped into the required form. This process is suitable for pins in big sizes that need strength and durability.
The material is first chosen for the pins, and then the required temperature is attained to allow the material to be pressed on the forging press. Once the pressure is applied to the metal, it takes shape and then solidifies.
Rectificado
The pin fasteners can be ground to achieve the required features. Chamfers help achieve tight tolerance in the pins. These pins are pressed, and precise diameters are derived.
Common Materials for Making Pins
Different types of pin fasteners are manufactured using different materials. Some of these commonly used materials to manufacture pins are as follows:
- Aluminum: Aluminum is opted for manufacturing pins because it is a lightweight material and also ensures corrosion resistance.
- Brass: The brass material is usually opted to add an aesthetic look to the pins and also make them corrosion-resistant.
- Steel: It is known for its durability and strength. Hence, these pins offer a rugged finish, which makes them usable in different industries.
- Titanium: It is opted for machine pins as heavy-duty industries require pins that perform in an exemplary way.
Benefits of Using Pin Fasteners
The use of pin fasteners offers various benefits, and these are as follows:
- Pins are durable when it comes to holding two components together in a secure way. These pins are mostly made from brass, steel, and aluminum. Hence, they offer excellent strength.
- Pins are universal and can be used in almost all types of applications. They are compatible with fasteners.
- These pins are very easy to install and remove, and they are suitable for a lot of applications.
- Pins are affordable when it comes to securing components together. They are not very costly and can be manufactured in large quantities.
- They help with the adjustment of components when needed. They are also safe from injuries and electrocution as they do not need any heat or electricity for the purpose of installation.
Factors to Consider When Selecting Pin Types
When selecting the type of pins from the different available options, some of the considerations to make are as follows:
- The material selection should be your first consideration as pins are available in various materials like titanium, aluminum, and brass, and based on your application requirements, budget, and required strength, you have to choose the right option.
- Every pin has a different load capacity, and you must consider the weight and pressure it may need to bear when choosing it for your application.
- Certain applications require pins that are resistant to corrosion and capable of tolerating high temperatures, and this should be a consideration when selecting for your industrial application.
Applications of Pins in Various Industries
Pins are used in versatile applications and industries, and some of these industries where pin fasteners are used are as follows:
Industria del automóvil
Cotter pins are widely used in automobiles to hold wheels and other components on axles. These pins are also able to handle the vibrations. Clevis pins are also used for the brakes and as shock absorbers of the car, as well as to secure moveable components very tightly.
Industria médica
The medical industry needs pins that are corrosion-resistant so that they can be comfortably used in medical applications. Dowel pins are widely used in forceps, and a hinge that is held tightly by the pins in forceps needs to be joined. Cotter pins are also used in breathing systems.
Equipment and Machine
The equipment and machine industry also uses dowel pins so that the machine parts can be joined before they are fixed with screws. Machines that have gear shafts can also use these pins so that the gear shaft can be locked for adjustment and maintenance.
Partner with DEK for Custom Machined Pins and Parts
DEK is one of the leading manufacturers of custom machine pins and parts. If you are looking for high-quality pins at affordable prices and according to your specifications, you can get in touch with us. We offer all types of pins, which can be tailored according to your requirements for shape and size.
Conclusión
As you have gone through this guide above, you must have understood in detail what these pins are and how they can be used. Understanding the purpose of each pin is very important so that they can be used for different applications.
Preguntas frecuentes
What are the most common types of pins?
The pins commonly opted for are cotter pins, tapered pins, and groove pins.
What are the advantages of using pin fasteners over other types of fasteners?
Pin fasteners ensure quick installation and offer durability and strength.
What are the common challenges with using pin fasteners?
Choosing the right size and material for the pin is one of the very big challenges. It is also challenging to ensure appropriate alignment while fastening the pins.
Can pins be customized for specific industrial applications?
Pins can be customized for specific applications in terms of size, material, and precision.
