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Locator Pin Component – Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing

Component Specifications

Definition

A locator pin is a precision-engineered cylindrical component used in workpiece positioning fixtures to establish and maintain accurate reference points for machining, assembly, or inspection operations. It ensures repeatable positioning by engaging with corresponding holes or features on workpieces, eliminating positional variation and improving manufacturing accuracy.

Working Principle

The locator pin operates on the principle of geometric constraint, where its precisely machined diameter engages with a mating hole or feature on the workpiece. This creates a fixed reference point that restricts degrees of freedom (typically radial movement), ensuring consistent positioning relative to other fixture elements and machine tools. The interference fit or clearance fit between pin and hole determines the positioning accuracy and repeatability.

Materials

Typically made from hardened tool steel (A2, D2, or O1 grades), stainless steel (304 or 416), or carbide for wear resistance. Surface treatments include nitriding, chrome plating, or titanium nitride coating to enhance durability and corrosion resistance.

Technical Parameters

Hardness 58-62 HRC for steel pins
Straightness 0.01 mm per 100 mm length
Concentricity 0.005 mm TIR
Surface Finish Ra 0.4 μm or better
Length Variations 10-150 mm standard range
Diameter Tolerance ±0.005 mm to ±0.02 mm

Standards

ISO 2768, DIN 6325, ISO 8015

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Locator Pin.

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Workpiece Positioning Fixture

A mechanical device that securely holds and precisely positions workpieces during robotic welding operations.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Wear leading to positional drift
Contamination causing binding
Improper installation causing damage
Thermal expansion mismatch
Corrosion in harsh environments

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Abrasive wear from repeated insertion/removal
Failure: Increased clearance reduces positioning accuracy
Mitigation: Use hardened materials with wear-resistant coatings, implement regular inspection and replacement schedules

Trigger: Chip or debris accumulation in locating holes
Failure: Binding or inaccurate seating of pin
Mitigation: Implement chip management systems, use through-hole designs with air blast, regular cleaning protocols

Trigger: Excessive force during workpiece loading
Failure: Pin bending or breakage
Mitigation: Design with proper strength calculations, use guided loading systems, operator training on proper handling

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Positional tolerance typically ±0.01 mm to ±0.05 mm depending on application requirements

Test Method

Coordinate measuring machine (CMM) verification, functional gaging, laser interferometry for high-precision applications

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

Not customer reviews or live demand data. These dimensions support RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

4/5

Manufacturing capability

4/5

Inspection readiness

5/5

Supplier transparency

3/5

These scores are example evaluation dimensions, not real customer ratings, country-specific buyer feedback, or live inquiry activity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Locator pins are specifically designed for fixture applications with tighter tolerances and often feature chamfers or bullet noses for easy insertion, while dowel pins are general-purpose alignment pins with standard tolerances for permanent assembly applications.

How do I select the right locator pin diameter?

Select based on workpiece hole size, required positioning accuracy, and load conditions. Typically use H7/g6 or H7/h6 fit classes, with diameter determined by the smallest feature to be located while maintaining sufficient strength.

Can locator pins be used in high-temperature applications?

Yes, when made from appropriate materials like H13 tool steel or carbide with suitable heat treatment. Standard tool steel pins are limited to approximately 200°C before losing hardness.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

Data Basis

CNFX manufacturer profiles, technical classification, publicly available product information, and ongoing plausibility checks.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Locator Pin