Custom Stainless Steel Knurled Pins Cylindrical Solid Connecting Rod Positioning Pins

Descrizione

What Are Knurled Pins?

Knurled pins are specialized fasteners featuring a textured (knurled) surface designed to enhance grip, prevent rotation, and improve retention when pressed into a mating hole. The knurling—typically a diamond, straight, or crosshatch pattern—creates friction and mechanical interference, ensuring a secure fit without requiring adhesives or additional locking mechanisms. These pins are commonly used in assemblies where vibration resistance and anti-slip properties are critical13.

Materials Used in Knurled Pins

Knurled pins are manufactured from various materials to suit different mechanical and environmental requirements:

• Stainless Steel (304/316) – Offers excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for marine, medical, and food-processing applications.

• Carbon Steel (Hardened & Coated) – Provides high strength and durability, often zinc-plated for rust prevention in industrial machinery.

• Brass – Used in electrical and low-friction applications due to its conductivity and anti-galling properties.

• Aluminum – Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, suitable for aerospace and automotive components.

• High-Strength Alloys (Inconel, Titanium) – For extreme environments requiring heat and chemical resistance.

Surface Treatments for Enhanced Performance

To improve durability and functionality, knurled pins may undergo various surface treatments:

• Zinc Plating – Basic corrosion protection for steel pins.

• Black Oxide – Reduces glare and provides mild rust resistance.

• Nickel Plating – Enhances wear resistance and corrosion protection.

• PTFE (Teflon) Coating – Reduces friction and prevents galling in high-load applications.

• Passivation (for Stainless Steel) – Maximizes corrosion resistance by removing free iron particles.

• Electroless Nickel (ENP) – Uniform coating for improved hardness and chemical resistance.

Common Specifications & Sizes

Knurled pins come in various configurations to meet different assembly needs:

• Knurling Patterns: Diamond (most common), straight, or crosshatch for varying grip strengths.

• Diameter Range: Typically from 1mm to 12mm, with custom sizes available.

• Length Options: Standard lengths range from 5mm to 50mm, but custom lengths can be produced.

• Tolerances: Precision-ground for tight interference fits (e.g., H7/p6 for press-fit applications).

• Drive Types: Some knurled pins include a slotted or hex drive for installation.

Key Application Areas

Knurled pins are widely used in industries requiring secure, vibration-resistant fastening:

• Electronics & PCB Assembly – Securing connectors and components in thin PCBs without soldering1.

• Automotive & Aerospace – Retaining gears, shafts, and bearings in high-vibration environments.

• Medical Devices – Providing non-slip retention in surgical instruments and diagnostic equipment.

• Industrial Machinery – Locking pulleys, couplings, and rotary components in place.

• Consumer Goods – Used in knobs, handles, and adjustable mechanisms for better grip.

Excellent Case: Securing PCB Connectors in Harsh Environments

The Challenge

A manufacturer of industrial sensors faced frequent failures in their PCB-mounted connectors due to vibration and thermal cycling. Standard press-fit pins loosened over time, leading to intermittent electrical connections and costly field repairs.

The Solution

The engineering team switched to stainless steel knurled pins with diamond knurling for their:
✔ Superior Grip – The knurled surface created a strong interference fit, preventing movement even under vibration.
✔ Corrosion Resistance – Stainless steel ensured durability in humid and chemically exposed environments.
✔ Ease of Installation – The pins were pressed in using a simple arbor press, eliminating the need for adhesives.

The Result

• Zero field failures reported over 12 months, compared to a 15% failure rate with smooth pins.

• Reduced assembly time by 30%, as no additional locking mechanisms were needed.

• Improved product lifespan, particularly in high-vibration machinery and outdoor installations.

Why Choose Knurled Pins?

✔ No Loosening – The knurled texture ensures a permanent, vibration-resistant fit.
✔ Versatile Materials – Suitable for everything from delicate electronics to heavy machinery.
✔ Cost-Effective – Eliminates the need for screws, adhesives, or secondary locking devices.
✔ Easy Installation – Can be pressed, hammered, or hydraulically inserted.

Knurled pins are an essential fastening solution for applications requiring reliability, durability, and ease of assembly. Whether in electronics, automotive, or industrial machinery, they provide a robust, long-lasting connection without the drawbacks of traditional fasteners.