Introduction
Ballpoint pen, also called biro, after its founder, Laszlo Biro, is a writing tool that has a small ball bearing for the transfer of the stored in a cartridge onto the writing surface. Its internal chamber is filled with an ink which flows to the tip as a result of the rolling action of its major parts. Its sphere is made of carbide, steel, brass, tungsten or any other non deformable durable material with a diameter ranging from 0.5- 1.2 mm. the popularity of this pen has grown due to the various improvements it has witnessed since its invention. It’s made up of very many parts including:
1. Cap and the cap band
A cap is the part which is mounted over the nib end in case it is not in use. It is used for protecting the nib from being damaged by anything that may be from the contents of the ink used. The cap is working in conjunction with the band which is a devise made up of a metallic like material that is embedded in a crew. It is mounted on the cap to hold it in the right position. It is recommended that the user should be very keen when using it because it should neither be tightly screwed nor loosened a lot. Otherwise, it will result into the breakage of the cap. For instance, in case it is not held in the right position, it can lead to the splitting or cracking of the cap.
2. The cartridge
Also known as the reservoir, the cartridge is a pre-filled replaceable plastic in reservoir which plays the role of a sac or bladder. It is used as storage for the ink that is used by the ball pen for writing. The ink passes here on its way to the ball point for the writing process to take place effectively. As already highlighted, it is made of a plastic material and has enough space for a temporary storage of the ink before it is used. However, it is not permanent because it can be removed and replaced with another one if it wears out.
3. Clip
Even if all the ball pens don’t have it, a clip is a vey essential feature of these types of pens. It is a metallic clasp that is attached to the cap of the pen. It plays a very important role in holding the pen cap in the right position without being loose. Meaning, it holds it firmly on the pen so as to make it tight and stronger at all times.
4. Coin filler
This is an opening located in the main body of the pen above the level of the ink. It can be used to control the flow of the ink in the pen. It is also used in helping the user when inserting a coin. In doing this, the user becomes able to reach the opening through which directly applies the pressure on to the pressure bar.
5. The ball
A ball is a tungsten carbide material found in the ballpoint pen. It is used in assisting the pen in resisting great pressures and any other deformity that may cause unnoticed damage to the pen.
6. Feed
The feed is the part of the pen which can either be located on the top or at the bottom of the nib. As its name suggests, it feeds the nib with the ink: supplying it with the ink got from the sac.
