Vlier DPFB51 Press Fit Ball Plunger 0.188 in Steel

Product Description

The VLIER DPFB51 is a press fit ball plunger designed for precise, repeatable positioning and detent applications in mechanical assemblies. The steel body measures 0.188 inches in diameter and 0.394 inches in length, with a flanged design that seats flush against the mounting surface for consistent installation depth. The nylon ball delivers an initial end force of 1 pound and a final end force of 2.5 pounds, making this plunger well suited for light-duty indexing, latching, and panel retention tasks. The black finish provides basic surface protection. Machinists, mechanical assemblers, and precision equipment technicians are the typical installers.

This press fit ball plunger is used in jigs, fixtures, tooling plates, enclosures, and light mechanical assemblies where a spring-loaded ball detent is needed without threaded installation. The press fit body installs directly into a drilled hole, eliminating the need for tapping. The flanged head prevents over-insertion and provides a positive stop against the mounting face. Applications span production tooling, positioning fixtures, panel assemblies, and similar industrial or instrumentation contexts.

Key Features

• Press fit body installs into a standard drilled hole - no tapping required
• Flanged head provides a positive stop at 0.040 inches flange thickness and 0.250 inches flange diameter
• Nylon ball with 0.312 inches ball diameter and 0.058 inches maximum ball reach
• 1 pound initial end force and 2.5 pound final end force for light-duty detent control
• Steel body with black finish for surface protection
• Compact footprint: 0.188 inches body diameter by 0.394 inches body length

Compatibility

Designed as a press fit ball plunger replacement or new-installation component for mechanical assemblies requiring a 0.188 inch diameter press fit bore.

Installation Notes

Installation is performed by pressing the plunger body into a precisely drilled hole sized to the 0.188 inch body diameter - an interference fit is required for secure retention. A drill press or arbor press is recommended to drive the plunger straight and to full depth without damaging the flange. Verify hole depth and diameter tolerances before pressing to prevent misalignment or damage to the nylon ball. No power shutoff is required for typical tooling or fixture installation, but follow all applicable shop safety procedures for press operations.