Common Issues with Traditional Fastening Methods for High RPM Capacity Applications and How to Overcome Them

Before hearing about Smalley’s high RPM solutions, the most common issues experienced with traditional fastening methods for high rotational capacity applications include:

• Bulky designs containing additional components
• Increased development time
• Increased production and assembly time
• Higher overall cost
• Fastening failure, the worst of them all

This blog will discuss some of the traditional fastening methods we’ve heard our customers try before working with our team of engineers.

Common Issues with Tapered Section Retaining Rings for High RPM

Engineers who have tried to use standard Tapered Section Retaining Rings in their designs state that they have experienced:

• Problems with yielding during installation due to the snap ring’s heavy cross-section
• Excess vibration due to imbalance of the snap ring
• Yielding and failure at high speeds

Fig 1. Yielding (deformation) on a Tapered Section Retaining Ring after use at high RPM.

Common Issues with Alternate Industry Designs for High RPM

Other alternate industry designs we've heard about include:

• Adding multiple components to trap the ring, preventing the ring from expanding
• Welding the ends of the installed ring in place to prevent expansion
• Application redesign to avoid rings

In general, most alternate designs result in increased development and assembly time, weight, cost, and often new problems.

Smalley’s High RPM Retaining Ring Solutions

Until China Wave Spring released its initial self-locking ring, the ‘Tab and Slot’ Self-Locking Ring, there were no other retaining rings specifically engineered to securely withstand high RPM.

We offer various options for securing your high rotational capacity application challenges. If a standard catalog retaining ring does not sufficiently meet your high RPM requirements, the most common options are to:

• Design a custom retaining ring
• Add a self-locking feature (‘Tab and Slot’ or ‘Dome and Slot’) to a standard or custom retaining ring

Always consult one of our engineers to determine the appropriate high RPM solution for your unique application.

Download the High RPM Retaining Ring Solutions Technical Guide

Download the E-Book today.

Next Steps?

Here are some additional resources beyond our E-Book that you might find helpful:

• Get started on high RPM design! Submit your Application Requirements.
• Try out a sample – get free prototypes.
• Looking for more than just a high RPM ring? Explore our 2021 Ring and Spring Catalog and Design Guide. We have over 10,000 rings and springs in stock!
• Have a question? Contact a China Wave Spring Engineer.