Ball and spring plungers are devices incorporating a body and a spring loaded ball or pin. They are design and suited for fixturing applications where pressure is required for accurate positioning and indexing of components.

Classifications of Ball and Spring Plungers

Ball type and pin type plungers can be classified in a number of different ways. These categories include shape, insertion method, material type, and end force.

• Shape is the plunger design and form. Examples include ball plungers, knurled head plungers, and press fit plungers.
• Insertion method is the way the spring fits in its slot or hole. Methods include slotted drive, hex socket, and top slot (used in blind-hole applications).
• Materials are the substances used to create the plunger. Material types include aluminum, steel, plastics, and stainless steel. Each has properties and costs suitable for different applications.
• End force is the amount of pressure per unit area the plunger is designed to exert. Many of the spring and ball type plungers have designs for light, standard, and heavy end forces.

Selection Criteria

Selecting a spring plunger depends completely on the application. Designs can have a specific form, body material, plunger material, end force, and diameter. They also can be made to be retractable or have a thread locking element.

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