Nautical Term: Drift pin
Definition of Drift pin
A drift pin is a tapered, conical-shaped pin designed to gradually align and straighten out-of-line rivet holes. The pin is progressively tapered from a blunt point to a diameter slightly larger than the rivet holes in which it is intended to be used. When installed, the point is pressed into the misaligned rivet holes, and the other end is hammered to force the rivet holes into line, ensuring a fair and smooth surface.
For example, if a boat’s hull is not fair, causing drag and making the boat less efficient, the boatbuilder could use drift pins to align the rivet holes in the affected areas of the hull. By installing the drift pins and hammering them into place, the builder could force the rivet holes into line, making the hull fair and smooth, and reducing drag and improving the boat’s efficiency.
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