Buyers Products Clevis Pin is manufactured to SAE standards and available in multiple sizes to fit your application. The clevis pin is used with rods, cables, yoke ends, and other assemblies. It can be ordered with a cadmium- or zinc-plated finish in quantities to your specification.
Specifications
| (0) Drill No. | 29 (.136) |
|---|---|
| A | 0.500 |
| B | 0.625 |
| C | 0.156 |
| D (Min.) | 1.982 |
| E | 2.203 |
| F | 2.359 |
| Finish | Zinc Plated Yellow |
| G | 0.109 |
The S.A.E. Standard Clevis Pin, with its precise dimensions of 1/2 inch diameter and 2-13/64 inch length, represents a critical component in mechanical assemblies requiring robust, articulated connections. Engineered to stringent Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) standards, this clevis pin ensures a high degree of reliability, dimensional accuracy, and material integrity, making it indispensable across a multitude of industrial and commercial applications. Its fundamental role is to provide a secure pivot point, facilitating rotational movement or acting as a shear fastener to transmit transverse loads while allowing for quick assembly and disassembly when paired with an appropriate retaining pin.
A clevis pin, in its essence, is a non-threaded fastener designed to link components together, most commonly within a clevis fork or similar configuration. This specific pin, manufactured by Buyers Products, is designed for optimal performance in dynamic environments where structural integrity and component longevity are paramount. The choice of materials and manufacturing processes are carefully controlled to meet or exceed the rigorous demands of modern engineering applications. The availability of this clevis pin with either a cadmium- or zinc-plated finish offers designers and engineers options to enhance corrosion resistance and extend the operational life of their assemblies, even in harsh environmental conditions. The standard finish for this particular pin, as detailed in the specifications, is Zinc Plated Yellow, providing excellent protection and visual identification.
Adherence to S.A.E. Standards: A Hallmark of Quality and Performance
The designation "S.A.E. Standard" is not merely a label but a profound commitment to engineering excellence and interoperability. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) establishes and maintains technical standards for various aspects of engineering, particularly within the automotive, aerospace, and commercial vehicle industries. For fasteners like clevis pins, adherence to SAE standards typically implies compliance with specifications pertaining to material composition, dimensional tolerances, mechanical properties, and surface finishes. This ensures that the clevis pin will perform predictably under specified loads and conditions, and that it will be compatible with other components manufactured to the same or related standards.
For a 1/2 inch diameter clevis pin, meeting SAE standards means it has undergone rigorous quality control throughout its production cycle. This includes verification of raw material composition, precision in machining to achieve specified diameters and lengths, and meticulous application of protective coatings. Such standardization is crucial for interchangeability, simplifying maintenance and repair operations, as well as guaranteeing that replacement parts will function identically to original equipment. Engineers can specify this SAE standard clevis pin with confidence, knowing it conforms to widely accepted industry benchmarks for safety and performance. This commitment to standards minimizes design risks, reduces the likelihood of premature failure, and ultimately contributes to the overall safety and efficiency of the end application.
Material Composition and Manufacturing Excellence
The mechanical performance of a clevis pin is intrinsically linked to its material composition and the precision of its manufacturing. While the exact material may vary slightly depending on specific production batches, S.A.E. standard clevis pins are typically manufactured from low to medium carbon steel, such as AISI 1010, 1018, or 1045, chosen for their excellent balance of strength, ductility, and machinability. These steels are robust enough to withstand significant shear and tensile stresses encountered in typical clevis pin applications. The manufacturing process generally involves cold heading, which improves the grain structure of the steel, enhancing its fatigue resistance and overall strength without the need for extensive heat treatment. Precision machining then ensures that the pin's diameter, length, and head dimensions adhere to tight tolerances, which is critical for proper fit and function within corresponding clevis yokes or brackets.
The meticulous attention to manufacturing detail extends to surface finishing processes. After initial fabrication, the pins undergo cleaning and preparation before plating. The specified Zinc Plated Yellow finish for this product involves an electroplating process where a thin layer of zinc is deposited onto the steel substrate. This zinc layer then receives a yellow chromate conversion coating, which reacts with the zinc to form a passive film. This film significantly enhances the corrosion resistance of the zinc, providing a self-healing barrier against environmental degradation. The yellow color is characteristic of this particular chromate treatment, often indicating a medium to heavy level of corrosion protection, suitable for applications exposed to moderate moisture and chemicals.
Understanding Clevis Pin Dimensions and Their Significance
The specifications table provides a detailed breakdown of the critical dimensions for this S.A.E. Standard Clevis Pin, each playing a vital role in its functionality and application suitability. Understanding these parameters is essential for proper component selection and assembly design:
- (0) Drill No. 29 (.136): This refers to the diameter of the cross-drilled hole typically located near one end of the clevis pin. A Drill No. 29 corresponds to a diameter of 0.136 inches. This hole is specifically engineered to accommodate a cotter pin, R-clip, or other retaining fastener, which prevents the clevis pin from dislodging during operation. Proper sizing of this hole ensures a secure fit for the retaining pin, preventing accidental disengagement and maintaining the integrity of the connection.
- A (0.500): This dimension represents the nominal diameter of the pin shaft, which is 0.500 inches, or 1/2 inch. This is a critical parameter as it dictates the pin's load-bearing capacity, particularly its shear strength. The shear strength of the pin must be sufficient to withstand the maximum expected transverse forces applied through the connected components. Precision in this diameter ensures a snug fit within the clevis holes, minimizing play and wear, thereby extending the life of both the pin and the mating components.
- B (0.625): This dimension typically indicates the diameter of the pin's head. A head diameter of 0.625 inches (5/8 inch) provides a bearing surface against the outer face of the clevis or component, preventing the pin from being pulled through. The head effectively transfers compressive loads and ensures the pin remains seated securely, resisting axial forces that might otherwise dislodge it.
- C (0.156): This dimension likely refers to the thickness or height of the pin's head. A head thickness of 0.156 inches ensures sufficient material to withstand localized stresses and prevent deformation under load. It also contributes to the overall stability of the pin within the assembly.
- D (Min.) (1.982): This critical dimension represents the minimum usable length of the pin shaft. At 1.982 inches, this is the minimum effective grip length available for the clevis or assembly it passes through. It ensures that even with manufacturing tolerances, there is adequate length for the pin to fully engage all components and for the retaining pin hole to clear the mating parts, allowing for proper insertion of the cotter pin or clip.
- E (2.203): This dimension signifies the overall usable length of the pin from the underside of the head to the beginning of the chamfer or radiused end, typically where the retaining pin hole is located. A length of 2.203 inches offers a precise measure for engineers to design assemblies, ensuring proper engagement and clearance for various thicknesses of connected components. This length, in conjunction with "D (Min.)", defines the practical working length of the pin.
- F (2.359): This dimension represents the total length of the clevis pin from the top of the head to the very end of the pin. At 2.359 inches, it provides the maximum physical extent of the fastener, important for packaging, storage, and clearance considerations within tight mechanical envelopes.
- G (0.109): This dimension typically refers to the distance from the end of the pin to the center of the retaining pin hole. A distance of 0.109 inches dictates where the cotter pin will sit relative to the end of the pin. This is important for ensuring the retaining pin fully captures the clevis pin and prevents its withdrawal, while also allowing for easy installation and removal of the retaining element.
Collectively, these meticulously defined dimensions underscore the engineering precision inherent in this S.A.E. Standard Clevis Pin. Each specification contributes to the pin's ability to provide a reliable, stable, and safe connection in demanding applications.
Protective Finishes: Zinc Plated Yellow and Cadmium Plating
The choice of protective finish is a significant consideration for clevis pins, directly impacting their longevity and suitability for specific environments. Buyers Products offers these clevis pins with either a cadmium- or zinc-plated finish, with the featured product being Zinc Plated Yellow.
Zinc Plated Yellow Finish
The Zinc Plated Yellow finish, as applied to this 1/2 inch clevis pin, is a widely adopted and highly effective corrosion protection system. The process involves electroplating a layer of zinc onto the steel surface, followed by a chromate conversion coating. The yellow chromate layer, in particular, enhances the passive barrier properties of the zinc, providing superior corrosion resistance compared to plain zinc plating. This chromate film acts as a self-healing layer, resealing minor scratches and imperfections to maintain its protective integrity. Zinc plating also offers sacrificial protection, meaning the zinc corrodes preferentially to the steel substrate, thereby shielding the base metal. This finish is favored in numerous applications for its balance of cost-effectiveness, good corrosion resistance, and attractive appearance. It performs well in moderate industrial and outdoor environments where resistance to rust and oxidation is crucial. However, it is generally not recommended for direct contact with highly corrosive chemicals or prolonged exposure to saltwater without additional sealing.
Cadmium Plating Option
For applications demanding even higher levels of corrosion resistance, especially in marine or aerospace environments, cadmium plating remains a viable option. Cadmium plating, though subject to environmental regulations due to its toxicity, offers exceptional protection against corrosion, particularly in saltwater and alkaline environments. It provides a very uniform, ductile, and lubricious coating, which reduces friction and galling in moving parts, a beneficial attribute for clevis pins that may experience rotational movement. Furthermore, cadmium plating offers good solderability and forms a stable oxide film, making it suitable for certain electrical applications. While its environmental impact has led many industries to seek alternatives (like certain advanced zinc-nickel alloys), cadmium plating's performance characteristics are unparalleled in specific high-performance, critical applications where its use is permitted and carefully managed. Buyers Products offers this option to cater to specific regulatory or performance requirements where cadmium's unique properties are indispensable.
Key Applications and Industries
The versatility and robust design of the S.A.E. Standard Clevis Pin make it an essential component across a broad spectrum of industries and applications. Its primary function is to create secure, load-bearing pivot points or shear connections within mechanical linkages.
- Agricultural Machinery: Clevis pins are extensively used in tractors, cultivators, plows, trailers, and various implements to connect hydraulic cylinders, linkage arms, hitches, and drawbars. They enable pivotal movement for steering, lifting, and articulation of farming equipment.
- Construction Equipment: In excavators, bulldozers, loaders, cranes, and other heavy machinery, clevis pins secure buckets, booms, attachments, and lifting mechanisms. Their ability to withstand high shear forces makes them ideal for these demanding applications.
- Automotive and Trailer Industry: From trailer hitches and safety chain connections to various suspension and steering components in utility vehicles, clevis pins provide reliable, easily removable connections. They are vital for ensuring towing safety and functionality.
- Marine Applications: While careful consideration of finish is required, clevis pins are used in boat rigging, davits, steering systems, and anchor points. Cadmium or specialized marine-grade zinc plating options are critical here for saltwater corrosion resistance.
- Industrial Machinery: General industrial equipment, material handling systems, conveyor belts, and processing machinery frequently employ clevis pins in their linkages, actuators, and protective guards.
- Aerospace (Controlled Environments): In non-flight critical or ground support equipment, clevis pins are utilized for various linkages, particularly where a robust, quick-release fastener is needed. Cadmium plating, where permissible, is often specified for its superior performance in specific aerospace environments.
- Material Handling: Used in trolleys, hoists, forklifts, and other lifting devices to articulate components and secure loads, clevis pins are crucial for operational safety and efficiency.
- Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems: Clevis pins connect the rod ends of hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders to their loads, enabling linear motion to be converted into force for various tasks.
The ability to use these pins with rods, cables, yoke ends, and other assemblies underscores their fundamental importance in creating flexible yet strong mechanical connections. The specific 1/2 inch diameter and 2-13/64 inch length makes this particular clevis pin suitable for medium-duty applications that require robust fastening without excessive bulk.
Installation and Maintenance Considerations
Proper installation and routine maintenance are crucial for maximizing the lifespan and performance of any clevis pin assembly. When installing the 1/2 inch clevis pin, it is imperative to ensure that the pin diameter is correctly matched to the bore of the clevis and mating components. A slight clearance is necessary to allow for free movement and ease of insertion, but excessive clearance can lead to premature wear, increased stress concentrations, and potential failure. The usable length (D and E dimensions) must be sufficient to pass through all components and allow the retaining pin hole to fully clear the assembly, ensuring the cotter pin or R-clip can be securely installed without interference.
For retention, always use a cotter pin, hairpin clip, or other approved retaining fastener of the correct size for the 0.136-inch drilled hole. The retaining pin prevents the clevis pin from axial displacement, thereby maintaining the connection. Regular inspection of clevis pin assemblies is recommended, especially in high-vibration or high-load applications. Look for signs of wear, deformation, bending, or corrosion on both the pin and the mating components. Any significant wear on the pin's diameter or elongation of the retaining pin hole indicates that the pin may need replacement. Furthermore, inspect the integrity of the protective coating; if the zinc plating is significantly damaged, exposing the base steel, the pin's corrosion resistance will be compromised, warranting replacement to prevent rust and subsequent material degradation. Adhering to these simple installation and maintenance guidelines will ensure the continued reliability and safety of your mechanical systems.
Advantages of Buyers Products S.A.E. Standard Clevis Pins
Choosing Buyers Products S.A.E. Standard Clevis Pins offers distinct advantages for industrial and commercial users. The unwavering commitment to SAE standards guarantees that each pin meets precise dimensional and material specifications, ensuring consistent quality and predictable performance. This reliability translates into reduced downtime, enhanced operational safety, and prolonged service life for connected equipment. The availability of multiple sizes within the Buyers Products clevis pin line, coupled with options for cadmium or zinc-plated finishes, provides engineers and purchasing managers with the flexibility to select the optimal component for their specific application requirements, addressing both mechanical demands and environmental exposures. Furthermore, the meticulous manufacturing processes, from material selection to the application of corrosion-resistant coatings, underscore a dedication to producing durable, high-integrity fasteners. The detailed specifications provided for each pin, such as the 1/2 inch diameter and 2-13/64 inch length of this particular model, allow for precise engineering integration, minimizing guesswork and maximizing assembly efficiency.
Conclusion
The S.A.E. Standard Clevis Pin (1/2 Diameter x 2-13/64 Inch Long) from Buyers Products is a meticulously engineered fastening solution designed for critical mechanical linkages. Its adherence to stringent SAE standards ensures superior quality, dimensional accuracy, and robust mechanical properties. With options for advanced corrosion protection through zinc or cadmium plating, and precise specifications down to the retaining pin hole, this clevis pin provides a reliable, high-performance connection for a diverse array of applications ranging from heavy agricultural machinery and construction equipment to automotive systems and industrial assemblies. Its design facilitates both strong, permanent connections and easy disassembly for maintenance, making it an invaluable component for engineers and technicians seeking uncompromising quality and durability in their mechanical systems.
