Vlier B50 Threaded Ball Plunger 8-36 Steel

Product Description

The VLIER B50 is a threaded ball plunger designed for applications requiring controlled end force in a compact, lightweight form. Built with an 8-36 thread size, the B50 features a 0.094 inch steel ball and a steel body measuring 0.344 inches in length. The ball extends a maximum of 0.025 inches at full reach. Initial end force is 0.50 pounds, with a final end force of 1.25 pounds. As one of the smallest and lightest spring-loaded positioning devices available, it is well suited for precision assemblies where space is limited and consistent, repeatable force is required. Machinists, tool and die makers, and mechanical assembly technicians are the primary installers.

The VLIER B50 is used in light-duty positioning, indexing, and detent applications where a controlled spring force must be applied in a minimal footprint. It is appropriate for use in jigs, fixtures, tooling plates, and small mechanical assemblies across manufacturing and industrial environments. Its 8-36 threaded body allows direct installation into a tapped hole without additional hardware. The small ball diameter and shallow reach make it ideal for fine-tolerance applications where larger plungers would be impractical.

Key Features

• 8-36 thread size for direct installation into a tapped hole
• 0.094 inch steel ball with 0.025 inch maximum reach
• Controlled end force range: 0.50 pounds initial to 1.25 pounds final
• Steel body and steel ball construction for durability in industrial use
• Compact 0.344 inch body length - among the smallest spring-loaded plunger designs available
• Color coded purple for fast field identification

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or direct-install threaded ball plunger for applications using an 8-36 threaded bore in jigs, fixtures, tooling, and light mechanical assemblies.

Installation Notes

Installation requires a properly tapped 8-36 hole in the mating component. Use an appropriate driver or hex tool sized for the plunger body - avoid over-torquing, which can distort the body or affect ball travel. Ensure the mating bore is clean and free of debris before threading in the plunger. Verify ball reach and end force are appropriate for the intended detent or positioning application before finalizing assembly.