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48H463 - Walter Annular Cutter Centering and Ejector Pin

Packaging: 1 per each
$56.10/ea

Usually ships within 3-5 business days

SKU: 48H463 Categories: ,

OVERVIEW

Precision Engineering for Magnetic Drilling Systems

The Walter Pilot Pin (SKU: 48H463) is a critical component designed to optimize the performance of annular cutters within industrial magnetic drilling operations. In the realm of precision metal fabrication, the accuracy of a hole is often determined before the cutting edges even make contact with the workpiece. This pilot pin serves as the primary reference point, allowing operators to align the cutter's axis exactly with the center punch mark on the substrate. By ensuring this initial alignment, the pin mitigates the risk of cutter walk and ensures that tolerances are maintained from the very first rotation.

Beyond simple alignment, this component functions as a sophisticated mechanical actuator within the cutting assembly. As the feed handle is depressed and the cutter engages the material, the pilot pin retracts into the arbor. This retraction motion typically opens an internal valve, allowing cutting fluid or coolant to flow down the center of the tool. This "coolant-on-demand" system is vital for thermal management, delivering lubrication directly to the cutting interface where heat generation is highest. Proper coolant flow, regulated by the pilot pin, significantly extends the lifespan of expensive annular cutters by preventing overheating and reducing friction.

The third, and perhaps most operationally significant function, occurs at the conclusion of the drilling cycle. Once the cutter breaks through the material, the spring-loaded pilot pin forcefully extends, ejecting the solid core (or "slug") of material remaining inside the cutter. Reliable slug ejection is paramount for automated and semi-automated workflows, as a retained slug can prevent the next cut, damage the tool, or require manual intervention that slows down production. Manufactured from high-strength steel to resist bending and wear, the Walter Pilot Pin is engineered to withstand thousands of cycles in harsh industrial environments, making it an indispensable accessory for MRO professionals and fabricators relying on Walter's high-performance drilling solutions.

Additional Information
Packaging Description:1 per each
Product Type:Pilot Pin
For Use With:Annular Cutters, Magnetic Drill Units
Material:High-Speed Steel
Function:Centering, Coolant Flow Control, Slug Ejection
Compatibility:Walter Annular Cutters

INCLUDED

  • 1x Walter Pilot Pin for Annular Cutters

APPLICATIONS

  • Centering annular cutters on pre-marked drilling locations.
  • Activating internal coolant flow during drilling operations.
  • Ejecting metal slugs from the cutter after hole completion.
  • Use with portable magnetic drills in structural steel fabrication.
  • Maintenance and repair of heavy machinery requiring large diameter holes.

FAQ

The pilot pin serves three main purposes: it centers the cutter over the hole location, it actuates the internal coolant valve to allow fluid flow during the cut, and it ejects the metal slug from the cutter once the hole is finished.

You should replace the pilot pin if it becomes bent, the tip becomes dull or mushroomed, or if it fails to eject slugs reliably. A bent pin can damage the cutter or prevent proper coolant flow.

While the pin will still center and eject without coolant, running annular cutters dry is generally not recommended as it significantly reduces tool life. The pin is designed to work with the coolant system for optimal performance.

Stuck slugs are often caused by a broken or weak ejection spring, a bent pilot pin, or lack of lubrication. Ensure your pilot pin is straight and moves freely inside the cutter.

Pilot pins are specific to the length and diameter range of the cutter. You must ensure the pin length matches the depth of cut (e.g., 1-inch or 2-inch) of your specific annular cutter.

Simply slide the pilot pin through the shank end of the annular cutter before inserting the cutter into the drill arbor. Ensure it slides freely before locking the cutter in place.

It is typically manufactured from hardened steel to resist bending under the high pressures of drilling and to maintain a sharp point for accurate centering.

The pin is designed for the cutter, not necessarily the drill itself. If you are using a Walter cutter on another brand of drill, this pin is the correct accessory for the cutter.