What are Clevis fasteners?
Clevis fasteners are mechanical components that connect pieces and allow for regulated movement. They are made up of a U-shaped piece called a clevis, a clevis pin, and sometimes a cotter pin or another locking mechanism. The clevis features holes at the ends of its prongs to hold the clevis pin, which secures the connection.
What are the components of a Clevis Fastener?
Clevis fasteners are made up of many key components that work together to provide a secure and flexible connection in a variety of mechanical applications.
Clevis
This is the fastener’s fundamental structure, a U-shaped bracket. It has two prongs with holes at the ends to receive a clevis pin.
Clevis Pin
This pin is put through the clevis’s holes to secure the connection. Clevis pins can be threaded or not threaded. Unthreaded pins usually feature a domed head on one end and a cross-hole on the other to secure with a cotter pin or split pin. Threaded pins are partially threaded and provide stability by allowing for a more secure fit within the clevis.
Tang
The tang is a pinlike component that fits between the clevis’s prongs. It is secured in place by a clevis pin that can be inserted or removed as needed. The tang enables for joint articulation and mobility, making it necessary in applications that require flexibility.
Cotter Pin or Split Pin
This component is frequently used to hold the clevis pin in place, preventing it from sliding out once placed through the clevis. This improves the connection’s overall security.
What are the different ttypes of cclevis fasteners?
Clevis fasteners are versatile mechanical components that connect pieces and allow for controlled movement. They come in a variety of styles, each customized to a certain application.
Clevis Shackle
This typical clevis has a U-shaped form that includes a clevis pin and tang. It is often used in rigging and lifting to provide a secure connection with restricted mobility.
Clevis Bracket
A rectangular hook with holes for bolts or screws to attach to flat surfaces. Clevis brackets are widely used in the automotive and aerospace sectors to firmly install rods and other components.
Clevis Hanger
It consists of a U-shaped clevis and a V-shaped clevis joined together by a pin or bolt. This design is used to suspend pipes from ceilings or other structures, offering vertical adjustment and support.
Clevis Rod End
The design is U-shaped with a hole at the base, which is often threaded for secure connection. Clevis rod ends are used in control systems and linkage assemblies to enable for accurate movement and alignment.
Twist Clevis
Provides a loop at a right angle to the axis of rotation, allowing for connections that require angular alignment. Twist clevises are commonly used in agricultural equipment to meet the specialized hitching requirements of specific implements. (Wikipedia source)
Clevis Hook
A hook with a clevis and pin at its base for attaching to a bracket or chain. Clevis hooks are commonly used in towing and lifting applications because they allow you to attach chains or ropes quickly and securely.(Wikipedia source)
Twin Clevis
A solid item with two clevises aligned opposite each other and each equipped with a pin. Twin clevises are used to join two components, such as two lengths of chain, providing a secure and flexible connection. (Wikipedia source)
Threaded vs unthreaded clevis pins
Clevis pins are vital components in mechanical assemblies, acting as pivot points or connectors between pieces. They are classified into two types: threaded and unthreaded, with each having unique qualities and applications.
Threaded Clevis Pins
They have partial threading on one end, which allows them to be screwed into a threaded hole or secured with a nut.
It is used in applications requiring a robust, adjustable connection, including as structural assembly, mechanical couplings, and control systems.
Advantages:
- Enhanced Stability: The threaded connection ensures a secure attachment, lowering the possibility of loosening under vibration or dynamic loads.
- Adjustability: Allows for accurate length alterations in assemblies, which is useful in applications that require delicate tuning.
- High Load Capacity: The secure threaded attachment allows for higher shear and tensile stresses.
Unthreaded Clevis Pins:
Have a smooth shank with a domed head on one end and a cross-hole on the other end to secure with a cotter pin or equivalent retainer.
It is suitable for applications where swift installation and removal take precedence over the need for a threaded connection, such as agricultural equipment, construction machinery, and different couplings.
Advantages:
- Simplicity: They glide into place without the need for threading, making installation and removal easier and faster.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Generally less expensive due to simpler manufacturing techniques.
- Quick Assembly and Disassembly: These are ideal for applications that require frequent assembly and disassembly since they can be inserted and removed without the need for specialist tools.
What are the applications of the clevis fasteners?
Clevis fasteners are adaptable components used in a variety of industries, including construction, automotive, aerospace, and agriculture, to secure mechanical elements and allow for adjustment.
Industrial Machinery
Clevis fasteners are used to link components in industrial environments, such as conveyor belts and control systems, assuring limited motion and stability while operation.
Agricultural Equipment
In farming, clevis fasteners connect various sections of machinery like tractors, plows, and cultivators, allowing for efficient operation and movement.
Rigging and Lifting
Clevis pins are used in rigging to attach hooks, shackles, and other lifting devices to chains or cables. This ensures secure connections while facilitating the attachment and removal of lifting equipment.
Automotive and Aerospace:
Clevis fasteners are often used in suspension systems to attach control arms to steering knuckles or shock absorbers to chassis. with aerospace, they aid with the security of control surfaces and aircraft couplings.
Marine Applications
Clevis pins are used for fixing sail hardware, connecting steering linkages, and fastening numerous components in boats.
Furniture Assembly
As an alternative, clevis pins can be used on ready-to-assemble (RTA) furniture to make it easier to put together and take apart when needed.
Construction:
Construction equipment uses them to attach loads to machines and trucks, making the links more stable when they’re under pressure.
Hydraulic Systems
Critical to hydraulic machines, clevis bolts connect cylinder rods to moving parts, keeping motion under control.
Common Questions About Clevis Fasteners
How do you install a clevis fastener?
Proper installation include choosing the correct size pin, aligning the holes, lubricating for ease of insertion, and employing a retention mechanism to keep the pin in place.
What is the purpose of a clevis?
A clevis is used to link or secure components, allowing for precise movement or pivoting between them. It is widely used in machinery, automotive systems, and construction equipment.
Is a clevis pin stronger than a bolt?
Clevis pins are meant to handle shear forces, while bolts are usually intended for tensile stresses. A clevis pin may be more suited for shear stress applications than a bolt.
How strong is a clevis pin?
The strength of a clevis pin is determined by its material and size. They are made from different grades of steel to satisfy certain strength needs.
Conclusion
Clavis fasteners securely connect components that need movement and stability. Their simple design and simplicity of usage make them popular in engineering and industry. Clavis fasteners help mechanical systems work and last by facilitating assembly and maintenance.
