What Is a Plunger Pin?
A plunger pin is a device used for positioning or securing an object. It is named so because its tip is designed as a pin. Other types of plungers include ball plungers (with a ball-shaped tip) and index plungers (which can be removed). The built-in spring in a plunger pin pushes the tip against the object for fixing and positioning. These pins are incorporated into various machines and are particularly useful in metal processing and semiconductor manufacturing.
Uses of Plunger Pins
Plunger pins are utilized in various applications to position and secure objects. Each plunger has a built-in spring that presses the tip against the object. The tip engages with a hole or groove in the object, allowing for precise positioning and simple fixation. Plunger pins with a pin tip usually have a longer stroke compared to those with a ball tip. Besides positioning and fixing, plunger pins are also used in metal and mold presses for ejecting parts.
Principles of Plunger Pins
Plunger pins are designed for positioning and fixturing tasks. The pin at the tip of the plunger interacts with an object to perform these functions.
The plunger pin has a straightforward structure: a pin attached to a built-in spring. Other types of plungers, like ball plungers, typically have ball-shaped tips. Each plunger operates by pressing against an object. When pressed, the tip of the plunger retracts, but when aligned with a hole or groove in the object, it extends due to the spring’s tension. This mechanism enables precise positioning and fixing. Thanks to its simple yet effective design, the plunger is widely used in various machines.
Plungers can be categorized into three types:
- Ball plungers, with ball-shaped tips, are ideal for sliding motion and used for positioning sliding parts.
- Index plungers, which can be manually pulled at the tip, allowing for easy positioning and releasing.
- Plunger pins, which can be used for ejecting as well as fixing and positioning, are chosen based on the length of the pin at the tip.