Stainless steel insect pins double as precision nozzle cleaning tools. Ideal for 3D printers, misting systems, fuel injectors or spray equipment. They are durable, rust-resistant, and reusable.
These stainless steel insect pins are not just for specimen mounting. They’re also perfect as precision nozzle cleaning tools. Each pin has a uniform, hardened shaft that slides easily into narrow orifices, making it effective for nozzle maintenance in 3D printers, misting systems, or spray jets. The polished finish prevents scratching delicate brass or stainless-steel openings, and their fine diameters (sizes 000 to 7) match most small nozzle apertures.
Reusable and easy to sterilize, these nozzle unclogging pins are a cost-effective alternative to single-purpose cleaning wires. Keep a set on hand for nozzle maintenance, printer repair, and laboratory spray cleaning.
The thinnest ones are very flexible so you will need tweezers or hemostats to hold them near their tips. Alternatively, you can try some of our dental picks.
We've offered Czech made stainless steel pins since 2005. Entosphinx stainless steel pins are 316 grade stainless steel with a nylon head; protect your valuable collections whether they're insects or textiles. Buy just a few & our delivered cost beats "free" shipping!
Google Reviews, click on the names to see in full:
Alison B.: ...ordered a sample pack of insect pins for making pinhole cameras....wonderful selection and super-fast shipment...…
Mary C. B. ...Indigo Instruments entomology pins...in my artwork for almost ten years now, and a big part of my studio practice!
Application | Recommended Pin Size | Technique | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
3D printer nozzle unclogging | 000–1 | Heat nozzle slightly, insert pin gently to dislodge filament residue. | Avoid forcing; use while nozzle is warm, not hot. |
Misting or irrigation nozzle cleaning | 1–3 | Insert pin to clear mineral deposits, rinse with distilled water. | Wear gloves; avoid scratching brass nozzles. |
Airbrush tip maintenance | 2–4 | Rotate gently to remove paint buildup, rinse with solvent. | Follow solvent safety guidelines. |
Spray equipment & lab jets | 3–7 | Use matching size for orifice; flush with compressed air afterward. | Ideal for recurring maintenance schedules. |
Some blogs that may be of interest:
Insect Pins for Art, Nozzles, Puppetry...Even Insects. Our pins ensured Sponge Bob's pants didn't fall down!
Pinhole Photography & Eye Evolution. See also pinhole camera examples with a #0 insect pin & a #1 insect pin.
See our blog Bioquip Inc. Products Catalog-Indigo Instruments Equivalents may be a useful reference for some.
Stainless steel insect pin sizes are listed below. The thinnest pins may need a hemostat (clamping forcep) to properly clean clogged nozzles.
Pin # | Dimensions | Pin Head | Wire Gauge(s) |
000 | 38x0.25mm (1.5x0.01") | 0.9mm | 46, 47 |
00 | 38x0.30mm (1.5x0.012") | 1.1-1.3mm | 45, 46 |
0 | 38x0.35mm (1.5x0.014") | 1.1-1.3mm | 43, 44 |
1 | 38x0.40mm (1.5x0.016") | 1.1-1.3mm | 42 |
2 | 38x0.45mm (1.5x0.018") | 1.1-1.3mm | 41 |
3 | 38x0.50mm (1.5x0.02") | 1.1-1.3mm | 40 |
4 | 38x0.55mm (1.5x0.022") | 1.1-1.3mm | 39, 40 |
5 | 38x0.60mm (1.5x0.024") | 1.1-1.3mm | 38-39 |
6 | 38x0.65mm (1.5x0.026") | 1.5mm | 37-38 |
7 | 50x0.60mm (2x0.024") | 1.6mm | 38-39 |
Note: 25mm=~1". So 38mm=~1.5"; 50mm= ~2"; 1/64"=0.015".
Entosphinx stainless steel pins are made from 316 grade stainless steel which has a minimum of 0.36% molybdenum (Mo) for superior corrosion resistance. This Certificate of Analysis is our guarantee of truly rust resistant insect collection pins.
For each Related Product, enter the quantity you would like to order and click the Add to Cart button beside the item.