STAINLESS STEEL SLOTTED SPRING PINS

Slotted Spring Pins – FAQs

What is a slotted spring pin?

A slotted spring pin is a hollow cylindrical pin with a longitudinal slot that allows the pin to compress during installation. Once fitted into a hole, the pin applies outward spring pressure to provide secure retention.

These pins are manufactured to ISO 8752 and are commonly referred to as slotted spring pins.

How do slotted spring pins work?

When driven into a correctly sized hole, the slot allows the pin to compress elastically. This creates:

  • Radial spring pressure against the hole wall
  • Secure retention without additional fasteners
  • Resistance to loosening under vibration

The spring action allows slotted spring pins to accommodate minor variations in hole diameter while maintaining holding force.

What are slotted spring pins used for?

Slotted spring pins are commonly used:

  • To retain components on shafts or in housings
  • In assemblies subject to vibration or movement
  • Where ease of installation is required
  • In mechanical, machinery, and general engineering applications

They are frequently used where precise alignment is not required, but reliable retention is essential.

How do slotted spring pins differ from solid dowel pins?

  • Slotted spring pins rely on spring force for retention and are tolerant of vibration.
  • Solid dowel pins rely on tight tolerances for accurate location and alignment.

Slotted spring pins are chosen for retention, whereas dowel pins are chosen for precise positioning.

How are slotted spring pins installed?

Slotted spring pins are typically driven into a drilled hole using a hammer or press.
For best results and to avoid deformation, a spring pin punch is recommended.

Reaming is not normally required.

Can slotted spring pins be reused?

Slotted spring pins are not generally recommended for reuse. Repeated compression can reduce spring force and compromise retention. For critical applications, pins should be replaced after removal.

What materials are available?

Our range of slotted spring pins is supplied as:

  • Metric sizes in stainless steel A1
  • Inch sizes in stainless steel A2

These materials provide good corrosion resistance suitable for general engineering use.

What sizes are available?

Slotted spring pins are available in a range of:

  • Metric diameters and lengths
  • Inch diameters and lengths

Sizes are specified by nominal diameter and overall length.

Are slotted spring pins suitable for load‑bearing applications?

Slotted spring pins are intended primarily for retention and shear location, not for tensile or structural load‑bearing applications. Load capacity depends on pin size, material, and application geometry.

How do I choose the correct slotted spring pin?

When selecting a slotted spring pin, consider:

  • Pin diameter relative to hole size
  • Required holding strength
  • Exposure to vibration
  • Pin length, ensuring sufficient engagement
  • Thread system required (metric A1 or inch A2)