Use of Steel Bright Bars in Precision Dowel Pin Manufacturing
A precision dowel pin is a locating component used to align
and position parts accurately in assemblies, jigs and fixtures.
It ensures repeatable positioning and maintains dimensional
accuracy in mechanical systems.
To manufacture dowel pins, steel bright bars are used as
raw material because of their dimensional precision, surface
finish and metallurgical consistency. These properties are
essential for achieving tight fits and long-term stability.
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Where Precision Dowel Pins Are Used
- Jigs and fixtures
- Machine tool assemblies
- Die and mould alignment
- Automotive sub-assemblies
- Robotics and automation equipment
Why Bright Bars Are Used to Manufacture Dowel Pins
- Extremely tight dimensional tolerance
- Superior surface finish
- Excellent roundness
- Uniform microstructure
- Good response to heat treatment
Dowel Pin – Geometry & Functional Surfaces
Dowel pins typically have precision ground diameters
and chamfered ends to facilitate easy insertion and
accurate location within mating holes.
Manufacturing Process Using Bright Bars
- Cutting bright bar into blanks
- Centerless grinding
- Chamfering ends
- Heat treatment (hardening)
- Final grinding for tolerance
- Quality inspection
Design Considerations
- Fit type (press fit or slip fit)
- Diameter tolerance class
- Surface roughness
- Hardness requirement
Surface Treatments
- Hardening and tempering
- Black oxide coating
- Polishing
Steel Grades Used for Dowel Pins
| Application | Steel Grade | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Standard locating | EN8, C45 | Good machinability |
| High wear | EN31 | High hardness |
| Critical tooling | 42CrMo4 | High toughness |
Common Dowel Pin Failures
- Wear due to repeated assembly
- Bending from misalignment
- Surface galling
- Loss of fit accuracy
Correct bright bar selection reduces these failures.
Related Components
- Guide Pins
- Locating Bushes
- Clevis Pins
Why Steelmet Industries?
- Precision bright bars for tooling parts
- Strict diameter control
- VD route steels available
- NABL-certified testing
- Full traceability
FAQs
What material is used for dowel pins?
EN8 and EN31 steels are commonly used.
Why bright bars are preferred?
They offer tight tolerance and surface finish.
Are dowel pins hardened?
Yes, for wear resistance.
Can VD route steel be used?
Yes, for critical tooling.
Contact for Enquiries
For sourcing bright bars for dowel pin manufacturing: