In applications with tight space constraints, Crest-to-Crest® Wave Springs can take up to 50% space than a traditional coil spring. This space saving is made possible with the sinusoidal waves formed in the flat wire. This results in a more compact spring that takes less material to produce and can reduce the overall weight of the spring and assembly.
Internal retaining rings act as a removable shoulder within a bore/housing. These internal rings come in a variety of configurations. For applications that require an internal retaining ring, Smalley offers Spirolox® or internal spiral retaining rings, Hoopster® rings, constant section rings, and WaveRings®. This blog post explores the differences between these internal retaining rings and highlights potential applications for each.
Spirolox® Retaining Rings are specified to literally retain components within a bore or shaft. What sets them apart from other retaining rings on the market is that they are designed with “No Ears to Interfere®,” so there is nothing to get in the way of assemblies. But if there are no “ears” or “lugs,” how are Smalley’s rings installed?
Lock washers, also referred to as split washers, are used to prevent nuts and bolts from slipping or turning in applications.
The washer applies a light load to minimize the effects of vibration, keeping the nut and bolt tightly in place. Lock washers are typically manufactured from low-cost materials to take up tolerances.
We’re back with another Ask the Expert blog, where Smalley experts answer difficult questions about designing retaining rings and wave springs. In this post, our engineers answer tough questions about material selection and how to know what exotic alloys are available.
Welcome back to the Ask the Expert Blog, where our engineers answer commonly asked ring and spring design questions. This week, our experts field a question about tools for the installation and removal of retaining rings
In addition to standard Spirolox® retaining rings, Smalley can also manufacture them with a unique self-locking provision. These self-locking rings are ideal for applications with high rotational requirements. They can also withstand the effects of vibration, rapid acceleration, and some impact loading. Self-locking rings provide a mechanical interference that increases the rotational capacity of external rings. The mechanical interference is a small tab on the ring that “locks” into a slot on the opposite turn of the ring.
Smalley has recently added MP35N to the expansive list of materials in which our Retaining Rings and Wave Springs can be manufactured. This unique material was added to our production capabilities because of its superior strength and corrosion resistance. These characteristics make it an ideal option for our customers in the Aerospace, Medical and Oil & Gas industries.
Curious to know where you can meet our team of expert engineers and see both Spriolox® Retaining Rings and Crest-to-Crest® Wave Springs in person? Smalley’s technical team will be traveling to cities around the world to share with you the latest in ring and spring technology.
Make sure to visit us at these events! Can’t make it but want to stay up to date on what’s new?
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