Overview
ISO 2338:1997 defines the characteristics and designation of parallel pins (also called cylindrical or straight pins) made from unhardened steel and austenitic stainless steel. The standard covers nominal diameters from 0.6 mm to 50 mm, specifies dimensional tolerances and commercial lengths, and gives requirements for material, surface finish, hardness and workmanship. ISO 2338 is a fasteners standard intended for manufacturers, designers and quality inspectors who need consistent, interchangeable pins for precision assembly and tooling.
Key Topics
- Size range and dimensions: Nominal diameters d = 0.6 mm to 50 mm; standard nominal lengths listed with acceptable min/max tolerances and commercial length steps (above 200 mm in 20 mm increments).
- Tolerance classes: Typical tolerance classes referenced are m6 and h8; tolerances apply before any plating or coating.
- Material and hardness:
- Unhardened steel (St): hardness specified in the standard (given as HV30 range).
- Austenitic stainless steel (A1): material grade referred to ISO 3506-1 with its own hardness range.
- Surface finish and coatings:
- Steel pins: plain (natural) finish or treated finishes such as black oxide, phosphate coating or zinc plating with chromate conversion; pins often supplied with protective lubricant unless otherwise agreed.
- Austenitic stainless steel: normally supplied plain (natural finish).
- Surface roughness:
- For m6 tolerance class: R
