Indexing plungers

Indexing plungers from norelem

An indexing plunger is a standardised locking device that can be used to immobilise or index moving machine components in specific positions.

The construction of indexing plungers

Classic indexing plungers have a pull knob or pull ring. A mechanism retracts the indexing pin out of the corresponding mating part. This enables the locked connections to be quickly and easily fixated and released.

The operating principle of indexing plungers

Indexing plungers consist of a housing with an internal pin. When the knob, grip or ring is pulled, the pin retracts into the housing and the movable parts can be re-positioned. When the desired position each reached, the grip is released and the pin extends into a hole, thus fixating the movable part. Indexing plungers can withstand the strongest lateral forces. Only manual intervention by a user changes the locking position.

With the aid of indexing plungers it is possible to disconnect a positive connection between a fixed and movable component. This is done by manual operation of the pull knob or pull ring, by remote operation or by pneumatic control - a further development that sets new standards in automation. Indexing plungers are used where it is necessary to prevent changes in position due to lateral forces.

Application areas of indexing plungers

Indexing plungers from norelem are available in a variety of designs, enabling indexing plungers to be used in a wide range of applications:

Indexing plungers from norelem are very robust and durable. During the quality inspection, special attention is paid to exact tracking and perfect engagement in the end position. This pin quality guarantees smooth functioning during use.

Different types of indexing plunger

Indexing plungers from norelem are available in many different versions and styles. In addition to the steel variants, particularly high-quality stainless steel indexing plungers are also available.

Different shape designations describe the small differences in the indexing plungers: There are models with thread lock, with longer indexing pins, short versions, indexing plungers for thin-walled parts, an ECO version, indexing plungers with locking mechanism, with rotation lock and lead-in bevel, with locked mark. with and without collar and with and without stop.

Furthermore, norelem offers high-quality premium and precision indexing plungers with cylindrical or conical indexing pin, with pneumatic locking and with lead-in chamfer. The lead-in chamfer enables an automatic disengagement of the pin by one-sided lateral forces.

The pneumatic indexing plunger from norelem sets new standards in automation. They are operated by applying compressed air. The pin is reset by interrupting the air supply. The pneumatic indexing plunger is used e.g. in synchronised production systems or assembly facilities as well as in safety-relevant applications that do not permit manual release.

For certain areas where the indexing pin should not strike, there are indexing pins with thread lock. The thread lock enables the depth to be exactly matched to existing components, no locknut is required.

The models with locking mechanism are suitable for applications where unwanted movement of the indexing plunger is to be avoided. They impress with their easy handling. By pressing a push-button a locking mechanism is activated; a red release button enables the practical release and change of indexed position.

Another solution is the norelem indexing plunger with rotation lock that is available with standard or fine threads. The special lock ensures that the position of the pin to the sleeve does not change. An initial bevel enables an automatic disengagement of the pin by one-sided lateral forces. Loosening the screw up to the marking on the pin allows the lead-in chamfer to be rotated in a 60° grid.

The indexing plungers with remote actuation are the optimum solution for inaccessible installation spaces where operation is difficult or where remote actuation is required for ergonomic and safety reasons. The indexing plunger is connected to the operator side by a Bowden cable. The combination of indexing plunger and actuating element forms a complete system which can be used for many types of application. As an alternative to the actuating element, the supplied screw nipple (Ø5 x 7 mm) can be used to integrate an individual actuating element into the system.

The precision indexing plungers with conical indexing pin form an optimal combination for quick positioning and fixation. The precise version of both the indexing plunger and the bush guarantees high repeat accuracy when joining two elements.

Customers also have various combination options available for the head variants: The following are available: Mushroom grips, T-grips, L-forms, mushroom grips with remote actuation, rings, Spherical knob and Five lobe grips.