Space and Clearance Requirements
Button Handle
The button handle requires the least clearance of any handle type. The low-profile cylindrical design allows pins to be installed in confined spaces and permits multiple pins to be mounted close together without handles interfering with each other.
Ring Handle
The ring handle provides a low-profile design with flexible orientation. The ring lies flat against the handle body when not in use, minimizing the space envelope around the pin.
L-Handle
The L-handle extends perpendicular to the pin axis in one direction, requiring clearance on one side of the pin but maintaining a lower profile than the T-handle. This asymmetric design works well when space is limited on one side of the installation.
T-Handle
The T-handle requires the most clearance of any handle type due to its symmetric design extending in both directions perpendicular to the pin axis. Adequate clearance must be available on both sides of the pin.
Grip and Leverage
T-Handle and L-Handle
Both T-handle and L-handle designs provide mechanical leverage during actuation. This leverage reduces the force required from the operator and makes frequent actuation less fatiguing. These handles are preferred for applications with higher spring forces or where pins are actuated repeatedly throughout a shift.
Button Handle
The button handle provides minimal leverage. It is best suited for applications with lighter spring forces or where actuation is infrequent.
Ring Handle
The ring handle provides minimal leverage but allows easy one-handed operation. The ring can be pulled with a single finger or hooked with a tool, making it suitable for quick actuation when leverage is not required.
Gloved Hands and Harsh Environments
T-Handle
The T-handle is easiest to grip and operate with heavy gloves, thick work gloves, or when hands are wet or contaminated. The large gripping surface and leverage make it suitable for rough industrial environments.
L-Handle
The L-handle performs well with gloves and provides good grip characteristics in harsh environments, though its asymmetric design provides a smaller gripping surface than the T-handle.
Ring Handle
The ring handle can be operated with gloves and can be hooked or pulled without requiring fine motor control. This makes it suitable for marine environments, outdoor applications, or when operators wear thick protective gloves.
Button Handle
The button handle requires more precise finger placement and is more difficult to operate with thick gloves. It is best suited for climate-controlled environments where operators have good dexterity.
Frequency of Use
T-Handle and L-Handle
The leverage provided by T-handle and L-handle designs reduces operator fatigue during repeated actuation. These handles are preferred for production environments with frequent changeovers or applications requiring multiple actuations per shift.
Button Handle and Ring Handle
Button and ring handles are suitable for applications where pins are actuated occasionally rather than repeatedly throughout a production cycle.
Lanyard Attachment
All Carr Lane Ball Lock Pins include a split ring for lanyard attachment. The split ring can be used to attach a lanyard to prevent loss or secure the pin when working at heights or over sensitive equipment.
For the most secure lanyard attachment, connect the lanyard directly to the handle. T-handle, L-handle, and button handles feature drilled holes that allow the split ring to be removed and a lanyard attached directly through the handle. This provides positive mechanical retention of the lanyard.
Application Examples
Button Handle
Ideal for fixtures with multiple pins mounted close together, automated tooling systems where space is limited, and applications where visual access is good and actuation is infrequent.
Ring Handle
Suitable for marine applications, outdoor equipment, and applications requiring quick one-handed operation without fine motor control.
L-Handle
Appropriate for fixtures where space is limited on one side, production tooling requiring frequent actuation, and applications where some leverage is beneficial, but T-handle clearance is not available.
T-Handle
Preferred for heavy-duty applications requiring maximum grip and leverage, production environments with repeated actuation, installations where blind operation is required, and applications where operators wear heavy gloves or work in harsh conditions.