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Frequently Asked Questions
We recommend testing samples in your application to verify performance of your design. These are frequently asked questions. For additional questions or for samples for evaluation, please contact us.
Q: Where would you use a grooved pin?
A: In thousands of places. Here are few examples:
- Hinges, for rotation.
- Valves, for a T- handle.
- Sprinklers, as fulcrum pin.
- Latches, for rotation.
- Heat sinks, for locating pins.
- Firearms, linking trigger and hammer.
- Conveyor chain, linking the tracks together.
- Hand tools, swivel pins in universal joints.
- Pumps, spring anchors and locating pins.
- Shaft, locking pin for
pulleys and gears.
- Locks, tamper proof assembly.
Q: Why would I use a grooved pin?
A: There are many reasons:
- They require only a
straight hole, without
the need for close
tolerances. The expanded
diameter allows for
relaxed tolerances in
the receiving hole.
- There are no reaming, milling or tapping operations involved, keeping production costs low.
- They withstand severe shock and vibration.
- They are solid.
- They are made in
different groove types
to suit different form
factors.
- They can provide a smooth bearing surface for rotation.
- They are easy to install.
How does a grooved pin work? (What is the principle?)
A: The expanded diameter gets pressed back to its original size (nominal diameter) when the pin is inserted into the hole. The pin then tries to return to the expanded diameter but is constrained by the hole wall. This constraining action causes a locking fit which resists severe shock and vibration.
To see an illustration of this, click here to view the Grooved Pins Overview page.
Q: What kind of materials are our standard pins made of? Surface treatment?
A:
| Material |
Plating |
| 1215 Low carbon steel |
Zinc, Nickel, Oil, Black Oxide,
Cadmium, or none |
| 303 Stainless steel |
Passivation or none |
| 6150 Alloy steel |
Zinc, Nickel, Oil, Black Oxide,
Cadmium, or none |
Q: What is the shear strength for grooved pins compared to spring pins?
A: The Groov-Pin shear strength is up to twice the shear strength of a spring pin of the same diameter.
The shear resistance of alloy steel Groov-Pins can be 40% higher than that of a heavy-duty spring pin.
Q: What size hole should a grooved pin be installed in?
A: See the table of
suggested hole sizes.
Q: What is the tolerance for overall length and straightness of grooved pins?
A: The tolerance for overall length is +/- .010 inch and for straightness +/- .010 per inch.
Q: With what kind of equipment can I install a Groov-Pin? How much force is required?
A: The Groov-Pin can be pressed in by hammer, air cylinder, or hydraulic press. See the chart of insertion forces.
Q: What is the difference between Tapered Groove and Parallel Groove?
A: A parallel groove has more engagement between the pin to the hole walls. A parallel groove has higher pull-out strength but requires a higher insertion force. See the chart of insertion forces.
Q:
How are
Groov-Pin
dimensions
and
characteristics
measured?
A:
| Dimension |
Measurement Device |
| Overall Length |
Caliper |
| Pin Diameter |
Micrometer |
| Expansion Diameter |
Ring Gage |
| Groove Length |
Caliper |
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