Cotter and Pin Joints

Rods of circular and rectangular cross section subjected to axial tensile or compressive forces, are connected together by a cotter joint. It is a temporary method of fastening of the two rods which have to be frequently assembled and disassembled. Its chief advantages are that the joint can be quickly assembled and disassembled and rods occupy exactly the same relative positions after assembly. The cotter joints are used to connect the piston rod, to the same cross head of the steam engine, pump or compressor. Long tie bars in steel structures are some, times built up of round bar, of short lengths and jointed together by cotter joints.