The result saw Chiefs reclaim the Absa Premiership summit from Golden Arrows on goal difference with 14 points from seven games.
Pirates are level with third-placed Bidvest Wits on 10 points, but have played two more games (six in total) than the Students.
The opening exchanges saw Amakhosi attacker Michelle Katsvairo power over a diving header off a cross from the left by Sibusiso Khumalo, while Mpho Makola struck a free-kick narrowly wide of Itumeleng Khune's goal at the other end.
Katsvairo tried his luck again midway through the stanza as he thumped an ambitious attempt off target from range.
Rakhale also had a shot well blocked by Lorenzo Gordinho in the area just before the interval, moments before Amakhosi's Hendrick Ekstein volleyed a right-wing cross over Brighton Mhlongo's goal from inside the box.
Bucs showed intent early into the second period, as Gift Motupa hammered a shot straight at the well-placed Khune before he hoisted an effort over from close range.
Both coaches made changes in search of a goal, with Chiefs winger Siphiwe Tshabalala notably extending his record of derby appearances to 28 when replacing William Twala in the 67th minute.
'Shabba' nearly struck 10 minutes later but his venomous drive from 25 yards was brilliantly denied by a diving Mhlongo.
Pirates substitute Bernard Morrison had a penalty shout in the latter stages but referee Victor Gomes was unconvinced, as the teams were forced to accept a point come the final whistle.