Single-Turn Wave Springs
Compact Wave Springs for Short Deflections and Low Forces
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Single-Turn Wave Springs
Single-Turn Wave Springs are flat-wire compression springs designed for precise loading in applications with limited axial space. Ideal for short deflections and low-to-medium forces, they are commonly used for tolerance take-up, load compensation, bearing preload, thermal expansion, and wave washer or disc spring replacement. Their Gap and Overlap configurations accommodate radial expansion during compression, helping prevent binding.
- Ideal for Short Deflections
Designed for applications requiring precise loading over short working travel with low-to-medium force requirements. - Gap & Overlap Configurations
Available in two end styles that both accommodate radial expansion during compression and help prevent binding within an assembly.
- Simple & Cost-Effective Design
The most common wave spring configuration, offering design flexibility and economical performance.
- Versatile Replacement Option
A practical alternative to wave washers and disc springs across a wide range of applications.
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Overview
Single-Turn Wave Springs are engineered for applications requiring precise loading in limited axial space. Available in Gap and Overlap configurations, they are ideally suited for applications involving short deflections and low-to-medium forces.
Unlike conventional die-stamped wave washers, Single-Turn Wave Springs are designed to accommodate radial expansion during compression, allowing smooth operation without binding or hang-up within a cavity.
In a Gap-Type spring design, the ends are allowed to move closer together as the spring compresses while making sure they do not touch. Overlap-Type springs feature ends that increase the overlap value as the spring is compressed. In both configurations, the spring ends are free to move circumferentially as the spring diameter increases during compression. This accommodates for radial expansion within the assembly and helps to prevent binding during operation.
Performance is generally similar between the two designs. Gap-type springs are preferred in most applications due to their uniform spring thickness. However, some designs may require Overlap-Type springs due to their free height-to-diameter ratio and in situations where tangling may be a concern. Together, these designs provide versatile solutions for bearing preload, tolerance take-up, and load compensation applications.
Single-Turn Wave Spring Types
Smalley offers three standard Single-Turn Wave Spring series to meet a variety of application requirements. These include our standard Imperial SSR series, the narrow-section SSR-N series, and the SSB series, which was developed for popular metric bearing sizes and is commonly specified for bearing preload applications. Originally designed to preload packings in telescoping hydraulic cylinders, SSR-N springs are also well suited for other applications where working space is limited. It is designed to fit into a bore with a light snap, maintaining excellent concentricity between the wave spring and assembly.
Designed to Meet Your Exact Specifications
Smalley stocks more than 4,000 Wave Spring part numbers in carbon steel and stainless steel. When a standard part won't do, our engineers can help you develop a custom solution built around your application's requirements.
With more than 40 material options and countless configurations available, Smalley provides the design flexibility needed for unique applications. Our edgewinding process minimizes material scrap, making premium materials such as Elgiloy, Inconel, and titanium cost-effective choices. Best of all, all custom parts come with No-Tooling-Charges™.
Design Support & Custom Solutions
Custom Design Services
Application Optimization
Applications
Smalley's Single-Turn Wave Springs are an effective choice for bearing preload applications. By applying constant light-to-medium preload forces, they help eliminate bearing play and reduce noise. Proper preload can also minimize vibration-related damage and reduce wear caused by runout.
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