What Is a Spring Pin?
Known as a pin spring tension , slotted spring pin, sellock pin, and other various names, the spring pin is a versatile fastener that can be used in many projects to link different components together. Notable for their durability and strength, spring pins are able to withstand side loads and rotational friction because of their unique design. Moreover, spring pins are easy to insert and remove, making them a popular choice in areas where fasteners may need to be regularly removed. Though the name does give some indication as to how these pins work, there is more to these fasteners than you might expect.
While spring pins can be found in many different varieties, the traditional version is tube-shaped and has a split down the middle that allows a pin to be tucked into itself similar to a rolled-up newspaper. This design enables spring pins to be compressed beyond their natural shape before insertion. Additionally, the diameter of a spring pin is always a bit larger than the hole into which it is inserted. While this may seem odd at first glance, the split design of the pin allows it to be compressed before insertion so that it expands into the hole to form a secure fit.
Despite their overall effectiveness, spring pins do possess one major drawback: their small size and unique design make them difficult to handle. Due to the nature of their shape, spring pins often need to be screwed in by hand, making them challenging to work with and hold steady. Therefore, to ease the installation process, spring pin tools are commonly used instead. These tools fit perfectly into the head of spring pins and make for easy installation, and they also reduce the wear and tear on the pin itself. In addition, they can be used to access hard-to-reach places, typically containing a magnetic guide that holds the spring pins in place, guaranteeing they are not lost.
Spring pins are often conflated with those used in electrical applications, the two sharing a similar name while differing in use. Commonly used in cable termination, internal battery connection, and as part of a charging base for portable devices, the spring pins of electrical assemblies vary in many ways. Known as spring-loaded pins, they have a spring that fits around the shaft, much like what you would see on the end of a pogo stick. In certain applications, this unique design helps the pin stay securely in place while still allowing it to be quickly removed. Since they are able to be installed and removed so easily, these components are frequently used in many modern electronic applications for their improved durability over other electrical contacts. While spring pin connectors are helpful for electrical applications, keep in mind that they are different from those used in industrial operations. Though both components take advantage of the functionality of a spring, one is to secure an assembly and the other is to establish an electrical connection.
If you are on the search for dependable spring pins, spring pin tools, or other components for your project, Click Aerospace welcomes you to explore our catalog of available products. As an online distributor of aviation parts, we deliver new, used, obsolete, and hard-to-find items with rapid turnaround times and unbeatable cost savings. Moreover, we offer one-on-one consultation throughout the purchasing process, so you can always count on us for reliable service. Start the purchasing process on any items of interest today to learn how Click Aerospace is ready and able to meet the needs of your operations!
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