Products

A split pin is a simple fastener generally made of soft, malleable metal used to lock low torque parts in place. The split pin typically consists of a flat, round or half round pin bent double with a pronounced loop at the closed end. After a part has been put in place, the pin is passed through a hole in the shaft and one or both its “legs” bent back to prevent it working loose while the loop on the closed end stops it from falling through the hole. If the part has to be removed, the bent pin legs are simply straightened and the split pin removed.

Split pins are among the cheapest and most widely used locking fasteners for low speed, low stress parts. They may be found in a myriad of applications ranging from brake disc locks on heavy vehicles to paper puppet and plush toy joints. Also known as cotter pins, these fasteners are available in a range of sizes and designs including straight pins, spring pins, and hammer lock pins. There are also different cross section profiles available such as round, flat or half round. The split pin is also available with different end profiles including bevel ends, miter ends, and extended prong pins all of which are suited to specific uses.