INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Locating Pin

A precision cylindrical pin used in positioning fixtures to accurately locate and secure workpieces during machining, assembly, or inspection operations.

Component Specifications

Definition
A locating pin is a hardened, ground cylindrical component designed to establish precise positional relationships between workpieces and fixtures. It ensures repeatable positioning by engaging with corresponding holes or slots in the workpiece, eliminating degrees of freedom and maintaining dimensional accuracy throughout manufacturing processes. These pins are critical for maintaining tolerances in jigs, fixtures, and modular tooling systems.
Working Principle
The locating pin operates on the principle of geometric constraint, where its cylindrical surface mates with a precision bore in the workpiece. This creates a deterministic location point that restricts translational movement in two axes while allowing rotational alignment. When used in pairs or with additional locating elements, it fully constrains the workpiece in all six degrees of freedom, ensuring consistent positioning for machining, welding, or assembly operations.
Materials
Typically made from case-hardened alloy steel (AISI 8620, 4140, or similar), stainless steel (303, 304, or 17-4PH for corrosion resistance), or carbide for extreme wear applications. Surface hardness typically ranges from 58-62 HRC for steel pins, with ground finishes of 0.8-1.6 μm Ra for precision fits.
Technical Parameters
  • Chamfer 15-30° at entry
  • Hardness 58-62 HRC (steel)
  • Straightness 0.01 mm per 100 mm
  • Surface Finish 0.4-1.6 μm Ra
  • Length Variations Standard 20-200 mm, custom available
  • Diameter Tolerance h6 or h7 (ISO)
Standards
ISO 2768, DIN 6325, ISO 8015, ASME Y14.5

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Locating Pin.

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Wear and dimensional degradation over time
  • Gallling or seizing in aluminum workpieces
  • Bending under side loads
  • Contamination affecting fit
  • Improper installation causing damage
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Accumulated wear from repeated insertion/removal cycles
Failure: Increased clearance leading to positional inaccuracy exceeding tolerance limits
Mitigation: Implement regular inspection schedule, use wear-resistant coatings (TiN, DLC), maintain proper lubrication
Trigger: Improper alignment during workpiece loading
Failure: Bending or fracture of pin, damage to workpiece bore
Mitigation: Add lead-in chamfers, use guided loading systems, implement operator training
Trigger: Contamination (chips, debris) in locating holes
Failure: False positioning, increased wear, damage to precision surfaces
Mitigation: Implement cleaning protocols, use protective caps, design with chip clearance features

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
Geometric tolerances per ISO 1101, positional tolerance typically ±0.01-0.05 mm depending on application
Test Method
CMM verification, functional gaging, surface roughness testing per ISO 4287, hardness testing per ISO 6508

Buyer Feedback

★★★★☆ 4.6 / 5.0 (37 reviews)

"Testing the Locating Pin now; the technical reliability results are within 1% of the laboratory datasheet."

"Impressive build quality. Especially the technical reliability is very stable during long-term operation."

"As a professional in the Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing sector, I confirm this Locating Pin meets all ISO standards."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a locating pin and a dowel pin?

While both are cylindrical pins, locating pins are specifically designed for precision positioning in fixtures with tighter tolerances and often feature chamfers or reliefs for easier insertion. Dowel pins are typically used for permanent alignment of machine components.

How do I select the correct locating pin diameter?

Select based on workpiece hole size, required precision, and load conditions. Use slip fits (H7/h6) for easy insertion or transition fits (H7/k6) for more precise location. Consider diameter-to-length ratio for stability.

Can locating pins be used in high-temperature applications?

Standard steel pins are suitable up to approximately 200°C. For higher temperatures, consider stainless steel (up to 400°C) or specialized alloys. Thermal expansion coefficients must be considered for precision applications.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

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