Industrial Clevis Pins (ISO 2341 Type B / DIN 1444)
In dynamic mechanical linkages, using a threaded bolt as a pivot point is a critical engineering error that leads to thread galling, elongation, and eventual fracture. Our Industrial Clevis Pins provide a smooth, unthreaded bearing surface designed specifically for articulation. Engineered for clearance fits in clevis yokes and hydraulic cylinder eyes, these pins facilitate free rotation while sustaining high shear loads. The cross-hole design allows for rapid, tool-free assembly and disassembly using Cotter Pins or Bridge Pins, essential for reducing downtime in field-serviceable equipment like agricultural machinery and construction rigs.
- Compliance: Meets ISO 2341 & DIN 1444.
- Durability: High shear strength Carbon Steel (1045).
- Protection: Zinc Plated (Cr3+) or Stainless 316.
- Design: Chamfered pilot end for alignment.
- Function: Type B (Pre-drilled cotter pin hole).
- Custom: OEM lengths and multi-hole options.
Technical Specifications
Product Name
Clevis Pin / Linkage Pin / Hinge Pin
Standards
ISO 2341 (Metric), DIN 1444, DIN 1434, ASME B18.8.1 (Imperial)
Material Grades
Carbon Steel: SAE 1018, 1045 (C45)
Stainless Steel: AISI 304 (A2), AISI 316 (A4)
Alloy Steel: 4140 (Quenched & Tempered)
Hardness
Standard: 125-245 HV (Unhardened)
Custom: Case Hardened (55-60 HRC) for wear resistance
Hole Type
Standard drilled cross-hole (chamfered edges)
Diameter Range
Metric: 4mm – 100mm
Imperial: 3/16″ – 4″
Surface Finish
Zinc Plated (Clear/Yellow), Black Oxide, Plain Oil, Passivated
Diameter Tolerance
h11 (Loose Tolerance) for smooth clearance fits
Thread Damage in Pivots When standard hex bolts are used in hinge points (e.g., on a scissor lift), the shear load acts directly on the threads. This causes “notch effect” stress concentrators, leading to rapid fatigue failure and damage to the mating bore.
Solid Shank Bearing Surface Our Clevis Pins feature a solid, unthreaded shank. This maximizes the cross-sectional area to resist shear forces and provides a smooth surface for the clevis yoke to rotate against. This design extends the service life of the connection and prevents ovalization of the mounting holes.
Hydraulic Cylinder Mounting Optimized for Rod Clevis and Eye Bracket assemblies. The ISO 2341 standard head provides a positive stop, while the clearance fit allows the cylinder to self-align slightly under load, reducing side-loading on the hydraulic seals.
Optimized for high-volume keywords from your CSV (e.g., 3/8 clevis pin, 1/2 clevis pin).
| Nominal Diameter (d) | Metric Equiv. | Head Diameter (d2) | Effective Grip Length (lh) | Hole Diameter (d3) | Recommended Cotter Pin |
| 1/4″ | 6mm | 0.375″ | 0.50″ – 2.00″ | 0.076″ | 1/16″ |
| 5/16″ | 8mm | 0.438″ | 0.75″ – 3.00″ | 0.106″ | 3/32″ |
| 3/8″ | 10mm | 0.500″ | 1.00″ – 4.00″ | 0.106″ | 3/32″ |
| 1/2″ | 12mm | 0.625″ | 1.00″ – 5.00″ | 0.141″ | 1/8″ |
| 5/8″ | 16mm | 0.812″ | 1.50″ – 6.00″ | 0.141″ | 1/8″ |
| 3/4″ | 20mm | 0.938″ | 2.00″ – 8.00″ | 0.172″ | 5/32″ |
| 1″ | 25mm | 1.250″ | 2.50″ – 10.00″ | 0.203″ | 3/16″ |
Clearance Fit (h11): Clevis pins are designed for a “running fit.” The pin diameter ($h11$) must be smaller than the hole ($H11$). Never press-fit a clevis pin; it should slide in by hand.
Grip Length Calculation: The “Effective Length” is measured from under the head to the center of the cross-hole, not the total length. Ensure your yoke thickness + washer thickness is less than this effective length.
Wear Prevention: Install Plain Washers (DIN 125) on both sides (under the head and before the cotter pin). This prevents the rotating steel pin from wearing into the softer cast iron or aluminum yoke.
Lubrication: For high-cycle applications, verify if the pin requires grease. We can manufacture grooved clevis pins with zerk fittings for internal lubrication.
Related Products
Cotter Pins (Split Pins) - DIN 94
The mandatory locking device for Clevis Pins. Available in Zinc Plated and Stainless Steel.
R-Clips (Bridge Pins)
A reusable alternative to cotter pins, ideal for connections requiring frequent disassembly.
Plain Washers (DIN 125)
Critical for spacing and protecting the mating surface from rotational wear.
Rod Ends (Heim Joints)
Precision articulating joints that typically utilize our clevis pins for attachment.
FAQ
What is the difference between a Clevis Pin and a Universal Clevis Pin?
A standard Clevis Pin has a single cross-hole for a specific grip length. A Universal Clevis Pin (Adjustable) features multiple holes drilled at set intervals (e.g., every 1/4 inch), allowing one pin to accommodate various yoke widths by changing the cotter pin position.
How do you measure the length of a Clevis Pin?
Engineering drawings typically specify the Effective Length (Grip Length), measured from under the head to the center of the hole. However, some retail listings specify “Under Head Length” (to the end of the pin). Always confirm which dimension is required for your assembly.
Are stainless steel clevis pins as strong as carbon steel?
Generally, no. 304/316 Stainless Steel Clevis Pins offer superior corrosion resistance but have lower shear strength compared to Heat-Treated Carbon Steel or Alloy Steel. For high-load structural applications, specify Alloy Steel with a Zinc Nickel coating.
What is the standard tolerance for Clevis Pins?
Most industrial Clevis Pins (ISO 2341) are manufactured to an h11 tolerance. This ensures the pin is slightly undersized to fit freely into a nominal H11 or H12 hole without seizing.
Can you manufacture Clevis Pins without the head?
Yes, these are defined as ISO 2340 (Headless Clevis Pins). They are secured with cotter pins or retaining rings (circlips) on both ends, used in space-constrained applications where a protruding head is not feasible.