Ask the Expert - Wave Spring Design Modifications

We are back this week with another Ask the Expert Blog, where China Wave Spring engineering experts answer difficult questions about retaining ring, snap ring, and wave spring design. This week, our engineering experts answer some questions about wave spring design modifications.

Are you able to develop a wave spring that goes through an arc of about 250° instead of a full circle?

Yes! Since our manufacturing process involves coiling flat wire on edge, we can control the amount of wire that is fed into each part. This gives us flexibility with most dimensions of the spring, and in this case, the ability to create a spring with a large gap. We can even create wave springs that are just a small fraction of the overall circumference. For example, if you only need 10° of the full circle, similar to a linear spring with a slight curve, we can create a custom design. If you let us know what you need, we will work with you to meet your requirements.

Can I reduce the spring load in a Crest-to-Crest wave spring by cutting the spring turns?

This is a common question that has several answers, depending on how the spring is being used. If you are looking to reduce the spring rate, cutting off turns would actually increase the spring rate and not decrease it like intended. This is because the number of turns inversely affects the spring rate in the Crest-to-Crest spring rate formula.

However, cutting off turns would likely reduce the load at a specific work height. This is because you're reducing the free height, and therefore, the travel between the work height and the free height, resulting in a lower load. This reduction in load will likely happen even though the spring rate is higher with fewer turns, as previously explained.