Engineering English
Pin Joint
Mechanical Engineering · Engineering Fundamentals · Last updated: July 30, 2026 · How this entry was written
Definition: A kinematic pair that permits only relative rotation between two rigid links about a common axis. It is a single-degree-of-freedom joint commonly used in linkages, trusses, and mechanical assemblies to allow smooth pivoting.
Example in context
“The designer specified pin joints at each corner of the four-bar linkage to reduce bending stress and ensure free rotation.”
“Tasarımcı, eğilme gerilmesini azaltmak ve serbest dönüşü sağlamak için dört çubuklu bağlantının her köşesinde pimli eklem belirtti.”
Where engineers use it
Essential in the assembly of linkages, frames, and movable structures. Engineers calculate pin joint reactions and select bearing sizes to avoid premature wear, ensuring the mechanism's mobility over time.
Synonyms: revolute joint, hinge joint
Antonyms: rigid connection
In Engineering Fundamentals
A pin joint is a type of connection between two structural members that permits free rotation but no translation, transferring forces without moments.
“The pin joint at the top of the swing allows the bar to pivot freely while supporting the load.”
Practice: can you use “Pin Joint” at work?
You are designing an excavator arm with three pivot points. Choose the appropriate joint type for each connection and explain why a pin joint is preferred over a rigid connection.
Show a model answer
“Use a pin joint to allow relative rotation between the two links.”
“Pin Joint” in 21 languages
| English | Pin Joint |
|---|---|
| Turkish | pimli eklem |
| French | joint à pivot |
| German | Drehgelenk |
| Spanish | articulación de pasador |
| Chinese | 销接头 |
| Arabic | مفصل دبوسي |
| Portuguese | junta de pino |
| Russian | шарнирное соединение |
| Japanese | ピンジョイント |
| Italian | giunto a perno |
| Vietnamese | khớp chốt |
| Hindi | पिन जोड़ |
| Thai | ข้อต่อหมุด |
| Indonesian | sambungan pin |
| Korean | 핀 조인트 |
| Bengali | পিন জয়েন্ট |
| Dutch | penverbinding |
| Swedish | pin led |
| Finnish | tappiliitos |
| Ukrainian | шарнірне з'єднання |
Frequently asked questions
What does Pin Joint mean in engineering?
A kinematic pair that permits only relative rotation between two rigid links about a common axis. It is a single-degree-of-freedom joint commonly used in linkages, trusses, and mechanical assemblies to allow smooth pivoting. In Mechanical Engineering, the term carries a usage-frequency rating of 10/10 in the Engineering English library.
How do you pronounce Pin Joint?
Pin Joint is pronounced /pɪn dʒɔɪnt/ (IPA). The Engineering English app plays audio for the term and checks your pronunciation with speech recognition.
How is Pin Joint used in a sentence?
Example from an engineering context: “The designer specified pin joints at each corner of the four-bar linkage to reduce bending stress and ensure free rotation.”
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