What Are Wave Springs and Their Uses?
Wave springs, also called coiled wave springs, are characterized by their wavy design. When they are placed on a flat surface, they do not lie flush on the substrate. Due to their wavy design, parts of the spring protrude from the surface they are affixed to. To become familiar with these useful mechanical devices, here are somefacts about wave springs you should know.
While there are a few exceptions, a majority of wave springs are manufactured by a process called on-edge coiling.w On-edge coiling involves the use of a flare wire which is positioned on a winding machine where it is coiled on the edges. This produces the readily recognized wave spring design. The reason this process is used lies in the fact that it is a fast and effective manufacturing process that works for this spring type.
As previously mentioned, these springs have waves that are actually responsible for storing energy. Meanwhile, other spring types have varying features, some of which include helical extension, conical, and compression variations. Compression springs in particular are made of coiled metal that retracts when exposed to a load. The presence of a laid pushes against the compression spring, thereby shortening it.
One of the major advantages of utilizing wave springs in your application is the fact that they require minimal radial space. Since wave springs are relatively small, they feature a low profile while taking up minimal radial space. In fact, wave springs are one of very few types that provide this benefit. Other types are larger in nature, complex, and necessitate more radial space.
Wave springs are also available in a wide range of materials, allowing them to suit a variety of operational needs. While they all feature the standard wavy design, some can be made of metal and non-metal alloys. For example, they can be made of stainless steel, including Commercial Type 302 and Government AMS 5906 variations. There are also high-carbon steel options, those of which are characterized as having a higher concentration of carbon to stainless steel, resulting in a strong, corrosion resistant wave spring.
Lastly, wave springs are available in three different varieties: single turn, multi turn, and nested wave spring types. Single-turn wave springs are the most commonly used for short deflections and low to medium loads. They are dependable and provide increased precision. Multi-turn wave springs, on the other hand, are taller and more complex. As their name suggests, they feature multiple turns that are achieved by stacking the successive round edges of the wave layers. Similarly, nested wave springs also consist of multiple turns of wave layers that are stacked or “nested”.
ASAP Aerospace Hub is a premier distributor of bearings, fasteners, springs, valves, and more. We carry wave springs from top manufacturers like Triumph Gear Systems Inc., Parker Hannifin Corp., and Miller Fluid Power Corporation. We even carry specialized spring types like space wave springs, and other aircraft wave springs. With over 2 billion new, used, obsolete, and hard-to-find items in our inventory, customers can fulfill their part requirements with ease. More than that, we operate with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accreditation, alongside a strict NO CHINA SOURCING pledge, allowing us to ensure the caliber of our offerings. Kickoff the procurement process with a competitive quote which may be acquired via our Instant RFQ service and see why customers rely on ASAP Aerospace Hub time and time again. For additional questions, call or email us directly; we are available 24/7x365!
- charles price
- Posted on April 29, 2022 aviation
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