Break-Away Pins

Short Answer: Use a breakaway connector when rotation is not required, and use a breakaway swivel when the product needs to rotate during pullback.

Correct use: Breakaway connectors provide overload protection in straight pull applications where rotation is unnecessary. Breakaway swivels add the same overload protection while allowing the product to rotate independently of the drill string. In some underground utility installations, breakaway devices are required by specification or local standards, so requirements should always be verified before installation.

Technical details: Both devices function as mechanical fuses that separate at a predetermined load, but swivels include a rotating bearing surface to prevent product twist. The correct choice depends on whether rotation is needed and whether breakaway protection is mandated for the job.

Incorrect use includes: Using a connector where rotation is required, omitting required breakaway protection, or installing a device with an incorrect break strength. Incorrect use can introduce greater risk of product twist, overload damage, or non-compliant installation.

Short Answer: Breakaway pins are used to set the maximum pull load at which a breakaway swivel or connector will separate.

Correct use: Breakaway pins act as calibrated shear pins that fail at a specific load to protect duct, conduit, or product during pullback. Each pin is color-coded so crews can quickly identify the intended break strength in the field.

Technical details: Breakaway pins are installed in breakaway swivels or connectors and are designed to shear cleanly when the preset load is exceeded. Light-duty and heavy-duty pins are available to cover a wide range of pull loads.

Incorrect use includes: Installing pins with an unknown rating, mixing pin strengths, or using pins outside their intended breakaway device. Incorrect use can introduce greater risk of unintended separation or loss of overload protection.

Short Answer: Breakaway pins are compatible with breakaway swivels and breakaway connectors designed to accept shear pins.

Correct use: Pins must be matched to the specific breakaway swivel or connector and selected based on the desired break strength. Compatibility includes both light-duty and heavy-duty breakaway devices.

Technical details: Breakaway pins are used in pocket breakaway swivels, standard breakaway swivels, and breakaway connectors. Pin kits are color-coded to identify load rating and are available in break strengths ranging from low hundreds of pounds up to several thousand pounds.

Incorrect use includes: Installing pins in non-breakaway hardware or using heavy-duty pins in light-duty devices. Incorrect use can introduce greater risk of equipment damage or improper breakaway performance.