Machining

Pins

Machined pins locate, align, hinge or fasten parts, including dowel pins, taper pins, clevis pins, hinge pins and shoulder pins. We supply them turned and, where needed, hardened and ground to accurate diameters for press fits and precise location.

What it is

Pins are turned from bar, with chamfers, grooves, cross holes or threads as required. Precision dowel pins are hardened and ground to tolerances such as m6 or h6 so they press accurately into reamed holes.

Hinge and clevis pins often have a head, cross hole for a split pin, or a groove for a circlip, and may be zinc plated or made in stainless steel for corrosion resistance.

Typical applications

  • Dowel pins for locating mating parts
  • Hinge and pivot pins
  • Clevis pins for linkages and cylinders
  • Taper pins for alignment
  • Shear and safety pins

Suitable materials

  • EN8 and EN24 steels
  • Case-hardened and through-hardened steels (EN31)
  • Stainless steel (304, 316, 410)
  • Brass

Points to consider

  • Dowels are normally ground; specify diameter tolerance and hardness.
  • Standard sizes (ISO 2338, ISO 8734, ISO 2341 for clevis pins) are cheaper than special sizes.
  • Add a chamfer or lead-in for easy assembly.
  • Choose stainless steel or plating for outdoor or wet conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What tolerance should a dowel pin have?

Precision dowels are typically ground to m6 for a press fit in an H7 reamed hole, or h6 where a lighter fit is needed.

Are pins hardened?

Dowel and wear pins are usually hardened (case or through hardened) and ground. Simple hinge pins may be left soft and plated.

Can you make non-standard pins?

Yes. Special lengths, heads, grooves, cross holes and threads are all machined to your drawing.