Locator Pins: Length Range 5-50mm, Diameter Tolerance ±0.002mm

Component Specifications

Definition

Locator pins are precision-engineered cylindrical components used in PCB assembly fixtures to establish and maintain exact positional relationships between PCBs and assembly equipment. They provide repeatable alignment through mechanical interference fits with corresponding holes in the PCB, ensuring components are placed with micron-level accuracy during surface mount technology (SMT) processes.

Working Principle

Locator pins operate on the principle of mechanical interference fit and geometric constraint. When inserted into precisely machined holes in the PCB, they create a fixed reference coordinate system that aligns the PCB with the assembly fixture. This eliminates positional variance by constraining all degrees of freedom except the intended insertion axis, ensuring each PCB occupies the exact same position for consistent automated assembly.

Materials

Hardened tool steel (A2/D2), stainless steel (17-4PH/440C), or carbide for high-wear applications. Surface hardness: 58-62 HRC minimum. Corrosion resistance per ASTM A967 for stainless variants.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Head Types	Shoulder, tapered, ball-nose
Length Range	5-50mm
Straightness	0.001mm/25mm
Surface Finish	Ra 0.2μm max
Diameter Tolerance	±0.002mm
Operating Temperature	-40°C to 150°C

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

ISO 2768-mK, DIN 6325, ISO 8015

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

PCB Assembly Fixture

A specialized tooling device used to securely hold and position printed circuit boards during assembly processes.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Wear-induced positional drift
PCB hole damage from improper fit
Contamination affecting electrical contacts
Thermal expansion mismatch

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Abrasive wear from repeated PCB insertion
Failure: Increased clearance causing positional errors >0.01mm
Mitigation: Implement preventive replacement schedule based on cycle count; use carbide pins for high-volume applications

Trigger: Incorrect interference fit specification
Failure: PCB deformation or cracked holes during assembly
Mitigation: Precision measurement of PCB hole diameters; use tapered entry pins; implement go/no-go gauge verification

Trigger: Contamination buildup on pin surfaces
Failure: Inconsistent seating depth causing Z-axis variation
Mitigation: Regular cleaning protocol; protective covers during downtime; controlled environment with positive pressure

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing per ASME Y14.5, positional tolerance of 0.005mm maximum

Test Method

Coordinate measuring machine verification per ISO 10360-2, go/no-go gauge testing for production

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Locator Pins

Manufacturer profiles associated with Locator Pins.

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

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Frequently Asked Questions

What tolerance is required for PCB locator pins?

PCB locator pins typically require diameter tolerances of ±0.002mm to ensure proper interference fit without damaging PCB holes during repeated insertions.

How do locator pins differ from dowel pins?

While both provide alignment, locator pins for PCB fixtures often feature specialized heads (shoulder/tapered) for easy insertion/removal and are manufactured to tighter tolerances suitable for electronics assembly environments.

What maintenance do locator pins require?

Regular inspection for wear, contamination removal, and verification of dimensional accuracy. Replacement is recommended when diameter wear exceeds 0.005mm or surface defects appear.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Locator Pins