Wave Spring Washers
Introduction to Wave Washers
Wave washers - also commonly referred to as wave spring washers, wave springs, or coiled wave springs - are a unique type of fastener within the washer family. They are manufactured from flat wire and designed with small, spring-like waves. Unlike other washers, wave washers are thin and deform easier under pressure.
Huyett offers a wide range of wave washers in carbon and stainless steel with black oxide, plain, zinc, zinc clear, and zinc yellow finishes. For more information on how materials and finishes affect fastener performance, check out our
Key Stock Material Selection Guide and our Introduction to
Types of Metal Finishes Guide.
Application Considerations
There are several points to consider when choosing your wave spring washer:
- Environmental Elements: Will your washer be exposed to natural elements like water, heat, dirt and debris, etc.? Will it be exposed to chemicals or lubricants?
- Load Bearing and Deflection Capacity: How heavy of a load will the washer need to bear, and will it need to deflect (or "spring") back to a certain extent of its shape?
- Function: Do you need the washer to take up any amount of play, provide deflection for stability, etc.?
Benefits
There are a few key benefits associated with wave spring washers:
- Saved Space: They require less operating space than traditional coil springs
- Consistency: They evenly distribute the load over the application
- Design: They offer minimal sharp edge interference or gall
- Cost: While cost varies depending on the size, material, and finish, wave spring washers are very cost effective, especially if they will be a permanent addition to the application
What Are Wave Washers Used For?
Wave spring washers absorb stress from axial compressive loads - acting as a cushion - and evenly distribute applied loads. The waves provide 3-, 4-, or 6-point contact that results in greater load bearing capacity and a medium range of deflection. The height and material thickness regulate the load function.
These washers are typically used in thrust loading applications for small deflections, particularly where radial space is limited. They can help offset tolerance deviations in the assembly process and reduce loosening due to vibration.
Important Measurements of Wave Washers
There are a few measurements that are important to identify about your wave washer. Knowing these will help you make an informed decision about which washer is right for your application. These measurements include:
- Outside Diameter: Measures the distance across the outside of the opposing edges
- Inside Diameter: Measures the distance across the inside of the opposing edges
- Height: Measures the total height of the washer as if it were placed on a flat surface - the distance from the surface touch point to the top of the highest curve
- Thickness: Measures the wire thickness
Other Types of Spring Washers
Wave washers are a subtype of
spring washers, which are generally designed with deflection properties to provide tension, withstand pressure, and reduce vibration. Other types of spring washers include:
- Conical Disc: Also known as Belleville washers, they are conical discs that handle high loads and limit deflection; stack them on top of each other to increase their deflection and load-bearing properties.
- Cup: These washers protect nuts and bolts, prevent tampering, and/or provide a finished look to an application; their design allows them to sit slightly elevated from the mating surface.
- Curved: Similar to wave washers, these washers use the deflection provided by the curve to distribute the application load; the inside diameter can adapt to different load requirements.
- Finger: These washers offer deflection through their bent tangs that do not widen under pressure; they reduce rotation and skidding and work well in low-clearance applications.
