Vlier offers a wide selection of quick release devices (QRDs) that incorporate convenient features including quick release pins, plunger pins and retractable plungers. Many are available in both steel and stainless steel; stainless steel provides strong resistance to rust and corrosion. The excellent versatility of Vlier QRDs makes them suitable for applications in virtually every industry.

Figure 1: Vlier QRDs make them suitable for applications in virtually every industry. Source: Vlier

What is a QRD?

If a product design requires precise alignment for positive locking but a nail, screw or pin won’t suffice, a QRD may offer the solution. A QRD is a precision Vlier part comprised of a body, plunger nose, spring and knob, and a pull ring or lever to retract the plunger nose. Typically, a QRD is used to secure position, fasten, latch, lock or disconnect quickly and easily.

A QRD’s threaded body allows it to be easily installed into position — in some cases, this can even be done by hand. It is compact, typically measuring between 6.35 mm to 12.7 mm, allowing for installation in applications with tight and limited space.

QRDs offer accurate and repeatable end forces for their functions in applications. Each model has a specifically designed plunger nose for side loading and engagement. Each plunger nose has varying plunger travel and range of motion, along with spring force for precise operation. Many Vlier QRDs are available with or without a thread locking element.

Figure 2: Each model has a specifically designed plunger nose for side loading and engagement. Source: Vlier

Material design choices for Vlier QRDs include steel and stainless steel. Each material choice is designed to meet the needs of a wide variety of specific applications.

Figure 3: An impressive array of industries has designed Vlier QRDs into their products and technologies. Source: Vlier

Vlier QRDs: The applications are endless

An impressive array of industries has designed Vlier QRDs into their products and technologies:

• Aerospace
• Appliances
• Automotive
• Defense
• Electronics
• Industrial
• Marine
• Medical
• Rail
• Recreational

The Vlier pull ring plunger: Limitless potential in limited space

The Vlier pull ring plunger is a perfect example of a QRD that has found myriad uses in diverse applications across industries. Its easy-to-grasp pull-ring handle allows for withdrawal and reengagement of the locking plunger, and it is engineered to withstand side loading with a tapered end for easy alignment. This makes the Vlier pull ring plunger ideal for a diverse array of applications in limited space.

Figure 4: Diving into the aquatics industry. Source: Vlier

Spectrum Aquatics, a leading provider of commercial-grade pool equipment, came to Vlier seeking help with a key part for their starting blocks.

Starting blocks are the raised platforms mounted to pool decks and from which swimmers push off to begin their dive into the lane below. They need to withstand the force of that push, resist the harsh chemicals found in pool water and meet the rigorous standards of sports-governing bodies.

To secure their starting blocks, Spectrum Aquatics had been depending on lock pins from another manufacturer. However, over time, those pins were rusting and breaking, compromising starting block integrity and safety. Spectrum turned to Vlier to design a replacement, and Vlier’s team of engineers set to work reimaging the part as a two-piece design, creating a custom stubby pull ring plunger made of 316 stainless steel that would resist corrosion.

The resulting part was a remarkable success, leading Spectrum Aquatics engineering manager Shane Claggett to remark:

“This was a smooth business transaction without hiccups. Vlier’s part was massively better. We’ve heard of no failures or rejected parts. With normal wear and tear, we can report a failure rate of less than one percent.”

Vlier custom modified QRDs

Vlier has a massive inventory of off-the-shelf, ready-to-ship QRDs that can fit a vast array of demands across industries. However, from time to time a customer will present the company with a unique challenge that requires custom modification of an existing Vlier QRD — or even an innovative, all-new design. Vlier’s highly skilled engineering and quotation team is always ready to help.

Vlier is prepared to meet the needs for prototype designs of products, production builds or quick-turn deliveries. After all, Vlier has been providing precision parts manufacturing solutions to the defense, medical, electric vehicle, telecom and other industries for more than 80 years and have the experience and expertise to analyze individual requirements and design a custom part that fits the need.

Vlier can manage custom solutions for:

• Modified dimensions
• Specialty materials
• Temperature-specific needs
• Clean-room requirements
• High-strength material
• Space applications

Contact Vlier today about an upcoming project. They will be more than happy to help find just the right solution.