Split pins are also known as cotter pins, and these are simple fasteners that are used to secure a bolt in place or any other fastener that is rod-shaped. These fasteners are generally made from soft, malleable metal that effectively locks low torque parts. Different sizes and designs of split pins are available that you can choose from according to your needs. These pins are commonly known to stop the axial motion along the shaft. They are also tapered or wedge pins, usually driven into holes. Tapered means that these pins compress as they enter the holes. Friction is created when the pin compresses, which helps the pin from loosening and operating smoothly.
How do Split Pins Work?
The split pins or cotter pins operate by preventing the bolt in which they are inserted from falling out. But you must know that not all bolts support split pins. They are used only in bolts that have holes. If there is no hole, there is no other way to insert the cotter pin. Therefore, you must always choose the kind of bolts with pre-drilled holes if you plan to secure them using split pins. There is also a possibility of drilling holes in existing bolts, but there are bolts available that are specifically designed to be used with cotter pins. They have pre-drilled holes, making the installation process easier and faster, saving you a lot of time.
Place it near the bolt's hole to use a split pin. Then you have to twist the end of the split pins outwards and then away from each other. Some people think that the best way is to twist the ends of the split pins together, but this fastener works the best when the ends are twisted away from each other. When you use this technique, there is less risk of the split pin coming out of the bolt, which can also lead to the bolt coming out.
Types of Split Pins
Split cotter pins
These are among the most popular split pins. They are constructed by using a semicircular wire. They can install pre-drilled parts that are secured with a deformable tine.
Standard Cotter Pin
These types of split pins are available in both straight and curved designs. These have a large surface area; they provide excellent grip when connecting to other parts using hands.
Spring Split Pin
Spring split pins usually consist of springs that help produce the extra force for the gripping action. This pin is commonly used when no other option is available to apply the required pressure on the object.
Barrel Cotter Pin
Barrel cotter pins or split pins are cylinder-shaped and have different ends. These types of pins are commonly used for threaded joints.
Dipped Cotter Pin
The dipped cotter pin has two ends: a flat head with a hole and the other has a T shape. These pins ensure that the dust cap is correctly tightened to a mandrel that fits around the shaft of an engine.
Straight Cotter Pins
The straight cotter pins are seen as chambers with no round edge. They have consecutive closures. There is no bent or adjusted end. On account of their straightforward plan, these pins are best for getting often moving articles as they don't fall off the items without any problem.
