Pivot Pins - What Is a Pivot Pin, Where Is It Used

In this article we’ll cover the machine elements pin, pivot pin, and press-fit bushing — what they are, what they do, and where they’re used. We’ll touch on topics such as the types of pins, and how pins and pivot pins are shown according to the standard.

What Is a Pivot Pin

Cylindrical machine elements that join machine parts to each other with a pivoting (hinged) connection are called pivot pins. Pivot pins are used in general machine manufacturing, mining, and in the construction of motor vehicles, locomotives, and railcars.

joining with a pivot pin, technical drawing

Above is an assembly drawing of a pivot pin used in the clevis joint of a connecting rod. Like bolts, pivot pins are conventionally shown as if not sectioned. Pivot pins are generally made from plain carbon mild steel, case-hardening steel, or spring steel. If desired, they can be chrome-plated, copper-plated, or phosphated. They are generally machined to an h11 tolerance on diameter. This tolerance may vary depending on the operating conditions. Through case hardening, they can be hardened to 55-60 HRC.

Purpose of a Pivot Pin

A pivot pin is a cylindrical fastening element used to join two parts to each other via a shaft, either rotatably or fixed.

Material Selection

Pivot pins can be manufactured from materials such as steel, stainless steel, or brass, depending on the load to be carried.

Fit Tolerance

The tolerance between the pivot pin and the hole is the critical factor that determines whether the joint will be fixed or able to rotate.

Standard Designation of Pivot Pins

types of pivot pins, technical drawing — Types of pivot pins (above)

standard pivot pin dimensions table — Standard pivot pin dimensions table (above)

Pivot pin drawings
AutoCAD DWG // PDF

Pivot pin drawing DOWNLOAD AutoCAD DWG file

Pivot pin drawing
AutoCAD DWG // PDF

Related Questions

A dowel pin is used to position parts in a fixed, motionless way. A pivot pin, on the other hand, joins two parts together with a hinged connection that allows rotation around the pin.

Plain carbon steel may be sufficient for a lightly loaded joint, while a hardenable material like case-hardening steel is preferred for a joint exposed to wear or high loads. This choice directly affects the pivot pin’s service life and durability.