Hinges and Hardware 101 - Why Use Slotted Holes Instead of Standard Holes

For applications where the holes on the hinge aren't matching up with holes in your chassis or frame, standard round holes are usually the type of perforation chosen for mounting. But when you're having say 3 holes on the hinge leaf match up with 3 holes on your chassis, one or or more of the hinge leaf perforations will be a slotted hole or slot instead of a standard round hole. This allows for the hinge to be shifted slightly to help with any tolerance issues or material issues for the holes not matching up exactly. It's especially helpful when it's a longer length of hinge and there are multiple holes. Slots can be punched in almost any width or length and many sizes are already standard tooling. They can also be punched parallel to the hinge barrel or perpendicular to it as shown in the picture. Click here for more information on slot specification on your custom hinge.