WDS' quick release pins

Citation

(2004), "WDS' quick release pins", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 76 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2004.12776bad.008

WDS' quick release pins

WDS' quick release pins

Keywords: Fasteners, Components, Equipment

WDS' stainless steel quick release pins are believed to be ideal for any applications where objects regularly need to be fastened or attached and where excessive vibration occurs. The pins are said to provide a quicker alternative to cotter pin designs and are less likely to work loose than threaded fasteners used in typical applications such as jigs and fixtures. Their tough corrosion free stainless and aluminium construction makes them suitable for a broad range of uses in fabrication, handling, packaging, aerospace, marine and medical industries (Plate 5).

Available from WDS in a T-bar design with alloy handle and stainless steel shaft, the quick release pins are ergonomic and quick fitting. Just one press of the anodised aluminium button on the handle and the locking balls retract, allowing the pin to be located and, provide a secure hold once released. Removing the pins is a simple matter of reversing the operation, making them quicker to use than cotter and hitch pins.

Plate 5 WDS's quick release pins provide a speedy alternative to cotter pins, hitch pins and threaded fasteners

The pins are reported to be far quicker and can prove safer than threaded fasteners, which can work loose in applications where they are subjected to a twisting action or vibration. By offering positive location and removing the need for tools, the pins speed up the use of jigs and fixtures and many other operations where a non-permanent fastening solution is required. Each handle features a hole for lanyard/ring attachments, preventing them from being lost or causing accidental damage, which is especially important in the aviation industry where they are used on landing gear, drop tanks and aircraft seating.

Corrosion resistant materials and high quality surface finishes also make the pins suitable for use in numerous non-aviation applications. Available in lengths from 10 to 100 mm and seven different widths up to size M25, the largest models offer tensile strengths of over 23,400 N.

If a customer requires something of a less standard, WDS offers a full design consultation “Specials” service that can produce a modified pin or component for an application at extremely competitive prices and short lead times. Their complete catalogue features over 10,000 standard parts and workholding products and is accessible online at www.wdsltd.co.uk where customers can download 3D files of standard parts to suit most currently supported 3D CAD packages.

Details available from: WDS. Tel: +44 (0)113 290 9852; Fax: 0845 601 1173; E-mail: pheselton@wdsltd.co.uk