Product and application brief
A self-clinching pin provides an unthreaded locating projection attached to a metal panel. Identify the pin-to-panel mounting interface separately from the pin-to-mating-part fit. Neither an ordinary loose dowel nor an externally threaded stud supplies the same construction.
Product forms and reference names
| Choice or field | What to identify |
|---|---|
| Flush-head pilot pin | A smooth locating shank with a lead-in end and a sheet attachment at the head. PEM TPS and TP4 are manufacturer pilot-pin reference families; their receiving-sheet eligibility differs. They are not universal DIN/ISO designations. |
| Metric and inch references | Catalogue entries use separate nominal pin diameters, length codes and units. Preserve the exact part code and dimension convention rather than treating similar nominal sizes as equivalents. |
| Other locating profiles | Round and relieved/diamond locating profiles are described in manufacturer application guidance. A required relief, taper or special shape belongs on the controlled drawing; it is not automatically included in a standard round pilot pin. |
Locating projection versus threaded stud
The exposed working section is unthreaded. A lead-in chamfer or taper helps entry into the mating hole; it does not establish a precision fit class. Use a threaded stud where the connection calls for a nut on an external thread, and evaluate fastening and location separately.
Panel, head and installation access
The selected clinching geometry displaces compatible panel material into a retention feature at the mounting end. Confirm panel alloy, hardness, thickness, finish, prepared hole, edge distance and access for the selected tooling. Head profile, mounting neck and pin shank are different dimensions. Follow the exact part and installation drawing; there is no generic press-force setting here.
Two holes with different jobs
The receiving hole in the host panel accepts the clinching mounting interface. The hole or slot in the mating component locates on the projecting pin. Specify each independently, including tolerances and datums. Do not copy the nominal pin diameter into the panel receiving-hole requirement.
Projection, end form and usable location
State total length using the selected drawing convention, required projection after installation, usable straight locating length and end lead-in. Include the mating component thickness, clearances and approach direction. A catalogue overall-length code alone does not define the installed working projection.
Fit and multiple-pin alignment
Give the required mating fit, position and perpendicularity from the assembly drawing. For multiple pins, include centre distances and tolerance stack-up; a relieved pin or slot may be an engineering choice to avoid binding. Such a choice requires assembly design approval, not an assumed interchangeable pin variant.
Location is not an axial latch
An ordinary smooth pin can guide a component without trapping it axially. Provide separate retention or fastening where required. A self-clinched attachment to the host panel does not mean the mating component is latched to the pin. This page does not promise shear capacity, pushout resistance, electrical suitability, wear life or vibration retention.
Manufacturer identities and supply boundaries
TPS and TP4 identify manufacturer families with different stated receiving-sheet conditions; exact selected-code data governs. No universal dimensional standard or equivalence is assigned here. Any coating, inspection or standard reference in a maker catalogue applies to that referenced part, not automatically to FastenerBridge production, compliance or authorised-brand supply.
Specification fields
| Choice or field | What to identify |
|---|---|
| Identity | Exact manufacturer reference or drawing/revision; round or relieved locating profile; unit system and head/mounting geometry. |
| Locating interface | Nominal shank diameter, controlled tolerance and mating hole/slot; datums, positional requirements, lead-in and required fit. |
| Installed geometry | Overall-length convention, installed projection, usable straight length, mating-part thickness, multiple-pin spacing and clearances. |
| Host panel | Material, hardness, thickness and finish; receiving-hole dimensions/tolerances, edge clearance and installation access. |
| Installation and acceptance | Selected tooling/instructions; installed-head condition and inspection requirements; any project-required retention, joint or durability verification. |
| Quotation | Material/finish specification, quantity by drawing revision, packing, traceability/documents and destination; supply scope and timing require confirmation. |
Common product questions
Is a self-clinching pin the same as a dowel pin?
No. This family includes a clinching attachment to a host sheet; a loose dowel has a different mounting arrangement.
Can the panel receiving hole equal the locating diameter?
Do not assume that. The mounting hole and mating locating hole serve different interfaces and follow separate controlled dimensions.
Does a smooth locating pin hold the mating panel against axial removal?
Not by itself. Specify separate retention or fastening where the assembly needs it.
Does the maker code prove a DIN/ISO equivalent or our supply approval?
No. Manufacturer codes identify selected product families. Drawing, qualification, commercial scope and any required conformity must be confirmed separately.
Related product choices
Product references
References checked 10 October 2026 identify structures, not FastenerBridge stock, certification or brand affiliation. Final requirements follow the selected specification. No universal dimensions, load rating or tightening torque is stated.