NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

What must be installed at the base of the plunger to prevent it from leaving the cylinder?

1. Lock Nut

2. Stop Ring

3. Guide Sleeve

4. Retaining Clip

The correct answer is: Stop Ring

The correct answer is the stop ring, which is designed specifically to prevent the plunger from being ejected from the cylinder. It serves as a physical barrier that ensures the plunger remains securely within the confines of the cylinder during operation. The stop ring effectively restricts the range of motion of the plunger, allowing it to function correctly without the risk of detachment, which could lead to mechanical failure or operational hazards. In contrast, while other components like the lock nut, guide sleeve, and retaining clip may have their own purposes within different contexts of mechanical systems, they do not fulfill the specific requirement of securing the plunger within the cylinder as effectively as a stop ring does. The lock nut is typically used to secure a threaded connection, the guide sleeve is often meant to help with the alignment and smooth movement of the plunger, and the retaining clip is generally applied to hold components in place but may not be suited for high-pressure applications that involve plunger movement. The stop ring is uniquely suited for this application, making it the ideal choice for this question.