Self-Clinching Pilot Pins Technical Datasheet
Product Overview
Self-Clinching Pilot Pins are precision alignment fasteners designed to provide accurate positioning and repeatable alignment of mating components in thin sheet metal assemblies. Once pressed into a properly sized mounting hole using a parallel squeezing force, the clinching ring permanently locks the pin into the sheet without the need for welding, threading, or additional hardware.
These pilot pins provide an economical and reliable locating solution for removable panels, covers, hinges, brackets, electronic enclosures, automotive assemblies, telecommunications equipment, and industrial sheet metal fabrications.
Table of Contents
ITEM CODE: 5020
Standards
Primary Standard: PEM® Type TPS, TP4 equivalent
Installation
- Prepare properly sized mounting hole in sheet.
- Do not perform any secondary operations such as deburring.
- Insert pin through mounting hole (punch side) of sheet and into anvil hole.
- With punch and anvil surfaces parallel, apply squeezing force to embed the head of the pin flush in the sheet.
Dimensions
| Pin Diameter | Min Sheet Thickness | Hole size in sheet | D | H | S max | Min Distance from Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 1 | 3.5 | 2.11 | 5.2 | 2.29 | 6.4 |
| 4 | 1 | 4.5 | 2.82 | 6.12 | 2.29 | 7.1 |
| 5 | 1 | 5.5 | 3.53 | 7.19 | 2.29 | 7.6 |
| 6 | 1 | 6.5 | 4.24 | 8.13 | 2.29 | 7.9 |
all dimensions in mm
Download Datasheets
Self Clinching Pilot Pins – TPS – Stainless Steel 300 series
Self Clinching Pilot Pins – TP4- Stainless steel 400 series
Material Characteristics and Recommended Applications
| Material | Characteristics | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel 300 Series | Good corrosion resistance, non-magnetic, suitable for stainless steel and corrosive environments | Telecom cabinets, food processing equipment, medical devices, outdoor enclosures |
| Stainless Steel 400 Series | Heat treatable, high hardness, magnetic, specifically designed for installation in stainless steel sheets | Stainless steel enclosures, data centers, telecom equipment, industrial sheet metal fabrication |
Technical Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Self-Clinching Pilot Pin |
| Installation Method | Press-in / Self-Clinching |
| Thread | None |
| Function | Alignment & Positioning |
| Sheet Material | Steel, Stainless Steel, Aluminium (within hardness limits) |
| Installation Force | Parallel squeezing force |
| Removal | Permanent Installation |
| Reusability | Pin remains permanently installed |
| RoHS | Available |
| REACH | Available |
Applications
- Electrical enclosures
- Control panels
- Telecommunications cabinets
- Server racks
- Data centre equipment
- Sheet metal fabrication
- Automotive components
- Medical devices
- Industrial machinery
- Electronic equipment
- Aerospace interior assemblies
- Battery enclosures
- EV charging stations
- Instrument panels
- Access doors and removable covers
Advantages
- Permanent installation in thin sheet metal
- Eliminates secondary welding operations
- Provides precise component alignment
- Improves assembly repeatability
- Quick and economical installation
- Excellent resistance to push-out and torque
- Reduces assembly time
- Suitable for automated production
- No loose locating hardware required
- Clean finished appearance
- Low maintenance
- Reliable long service life
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a self-clinching pilot pin?
A self-clinching pilot pin is a permanently installed locating pin used to accurately align mating sheet metal components.
How is a pilot pin installed?
The pin is pressed into a properly sized hole using a parallel squeezing force. During installation, the surrounding sheet material flows into the clinching groove, permanently locking the pin in place.
Does a pilot pin require welding?
No. Self-clinching pilot pins eliminate the need for welding, reducing heat distortion and secondary finishing operations.
Can pilot pins be installed in stainless steel sheets?
Yes, provided the sheet hardness is lower than the hardness of the pilot pin and the recommended installation guidelines are followed.
What is the primary purpose of a pilot pin?
Pilot pins ensure accurate positioning and repeatable alignment of removable panels, brackets, covers, and mating assemblies during installation.
Are pilot pins reusable?
The installed pilot pin remains permanently fixed to the sheet, while the mating component can be removed and reinstalled repeatedly.
What industries commonly use self-clinching pilot pins?
They are extensively used in electronics, telecommunications, automotive, industrial equipment, electrical enclosures, aerospace, medical equipment, and general sheet metal fabrication.
Need Technical Assistance or a Quote?
Looking for pricing, samples, CAD drawings, or help selecting the right fastener? Our team can help you choose the correct product for your application.
📧 sales@horizonincindia.com | 📞 +91 80 4117 9152 | 💬 +91 99167 77262
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The technical information, specifications, dimensions, mechanical properties, drawings, and performance data provided on this website are intended for general reference and engineering guidance only. Values shown are representative of products manufactured under normal production conditions and may vary depending on material grade, manufacturing tolerances, installation method, application, and operating environment.
While Horizon Inc. makes every reasonable effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, we make no warranties, express or implied, regarding its completeness, accuracy, or suitability for any particular purpose. Customers are responsible for verifying that the selected product is appropriate for their specific application and operating conditions. Where safety, structural integrity, or regulatory compliance is critical, independent engineering evaluation and product testing should be performed.
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