Internal Snap Rings
Install into a groove inside a bore or housing to provide secure axial retention. Commonly used in applications such as bearings and bushings.
Constant Section Retaining Rings (Snap Rings)
Constant section retaining rings, commonly known as snap rings, have a uniform width around their circumference (radial wall). This constant cross section provides three points of contact with the groove, while the lug-free design makes these retaining rings well suited for applications with tight radial clearances or limited assembly space. Available in internal and external configurations, Rotor Clip snap rings install into grooves on shafts and within housings to provide secure axial retention.
Features & Benefits
- Cost-Effective at Larger Sizes: Constant section retaining rings can provide a more economical option at larger diameters while maintaining a compact, lug-free design.
- Tight Radial Clearances: The lug-free profile requires less radial clearance and helps minimize interference with nearby components.
- Simplified Installation: Many snap rings can be installed without special tools, including retaining ring pliers. Select configurations feature end notches for easier installation and removal.
- Automated Assembly: Snap rings can be fed and installed using automated equipment, supporting efficient, high-volume assembly.
Sizes available from:
- Standard: .157″ to 10” (4 mm to 150 mm)
Internal and External Snap Rings
Rotor Clip constant section snap rings are available in both internal and external configurations. Selecting the correct style depends on whether the retaining groove is located inside a housing or on the outside diameter of a shaft.
External Snap Rings
Install into a groove on the outside diameter of a shaft to provide secure axial retention. Commonly used in applications such as gears and pulleys.
Snap Rings vs. Circlips
Compare the Key Differences
Snap rings and circlips are both retaining ring styles designed to provide axial retention, but they differ in their cross sections, groove contact, load capacity, and installation.
Compare the key design characteristics below to determine which retaining ring best suits your application.
| Feature | Constant Section Retaining Rings (Snap Rings) |
Tapered Section Retaining Rings (Circlips) |
|---|---|---|
| Cross Section | Feature a uniform width along their circumference, also referred to as the radial wall. | Feature a tapered design in which the width of the radial wall decreases symmetrically toward the free ends and lugs. |
| Groove Contact | Provide three points of contact with the groove. | Provide almost complete circular contact with the groove when installed. |
| Installation | Lug-free design with notched ends allows installation on shafts or in housings without special tools. | Installed using lugs and lug holes with retaining ring pliers. |
| Load Characteristics | Robust cross section enhances the ability to withstand impact loads. | Uniform groove contact accommodates higher thrust loadings. |
| Best Suited For | Applications with tight radial clearances, impact loading, or tool-free installation requirements. | Applications requiring maximum groove contact and higher thrust capacity. |
Need assistance with selecting the right retaining ring?
Simple Snap Ring Installation
Snap rings install into grooves on shafts or inside housings to securely retain components within an assembly. Many of Rotor Clip’s snap ring configurations can be installed without special tools, while select styles feature notched ends that simplify installation and removal. Always confirm the snap ring is fully seated in the groove before operating the assembly.
Common Applications for Snap Rings
Constant section rings are commonly used in off-highway, construction, and agricultural equipment because their robust cross-section makes them well suited for impact-loading and demanding operating conditions. Applications include hydraulic cylinders, clutches, clevis joints, CV joints, steering gear assemblies, and brake systems.
Clutch
Hydraulic Cylinder
Clevis Joint
CV Joint
Custom Snap Rings Engineered for Your Assembly
When a standard constant section retaining ring cannot meet the load, space, material, or installation requirements of your application, Rotor Clip engineers can develop a custom snap ring from design through full production.
Custom modifications include:
- Section thickness
- Groove geometry
- End configuration
- Rotational capacity
- Materials & finishes
- Tolerances
- Large diameters
Snap Ring Materials & Finishes
Rotor Clip constant section retaining rings are available in a range of materials and finishes to meet different application and operating requirements. Our engineers can help evaluate factors such as strength, corrosion resistance, temperature, and environmental conditions to identify the right material and finish for your application.
Materials
- Carbon Spring Steel (ST)
- Stainless Steel – PH-15-7Mo (SS)
- Beryllium Copper Alloy #25 (BC)
- Stainless Steel – DIN 1.4122 (SG)
- Phosphor Bronze Alloy #5218 (PB)
Finishes
- Phosphate Coating (PA), Standard
- Phosphate and Oil (PD)
- Phosphate with Sealer (PAL)
- Heavy Phosphate and Oil (HPD)
- Zinc Plating (ZD)
- Zinc Bright (ZF)
- Zinc Dichromate with Sealer (ZDL)
- Heavy Zinc Dichromate with Sealer (HZDL)
- Trivalent Chromate over Zinc (Z3X)
- Galvanic Zinc Plating (GZN)
- Oil over Steel (OIL)
Explore More Retaining Ring Styles
Constant section retaining rings are one of many retaining ring solutions manufactured by Rotor Clip. As the only manufacturer of every retaining ring style, Rotor Clip offers additional retaining ring designs to suit virtually any application.
Snap Ring & Constant Section Ring FAQs
Explore More Frequently Asked Questions About Retaining Rings
A snap ring is a type of retaining ring used to secure components on a shaft or inside a housing. At Rotor Clip the term “snap ring” refers to a constant section retaining ring with a uniform radial wall around its circumference. They install into grooves on shafts or inside housings to provide axial retention. Their lug-free design makes them well suited for applications with tight radial clearances while the robust cross section helps withstand impact loading.
Snap rings are constant section retaining rings with a uniform radial wall that provides three points of contact with the groove and excels in applications with tight radial clearances. Circlips are tapered section retaining rings featuring a tapered radial wall that decreases symmetrically toward the free ends and lugs. This design provides uniform groove contact, distributes stress evenly, and enables circlips to accommodate higher thrust loadings than constant section retaining rings. The best choice depends on your application requirements, loading conditions, and installation preferences.
Snap rings are installed into grooves on shafts or inside housings. Many snap ring configurations can be installed without special tools, while select styles feature installation notches that simplify assembly. Proper installation ensures the retaining ring is fully seated in the groove for optimal performance.
Rotor Clip constant section retaining rings are available in a wide range of materials including stainless steels, carbon spring steel. Rotor Clip also offers specialty materials including Inconel, Elgiloy, beryllium copper, phosphor bronze, for applications involving corrosion resistance, operating temperature, load requirements, and environmental conditions.
Yes. Rotor Clip engineers develop custom constant section retaining rings when standard parts cannot meet application requirements. Customizations can include dimensions, materials, section thickness, tolerances, end configurations, finishes, and other application-specific design modifications.
Connect with our engineers to discuss your application requirements
Retaining Ring Resources
We’re here to help engineers better understand retaining rings, compare different designs, and select the right solution for their application. Explore some of our latest technical resources below.
Featured Engineering Resources
With more than 70 years of retaining ring engineering and manufacturing experience, Rotor Clip has designed and specified retaining rings for virtually every industry and application. Our extensive experience has made us a trusted partner for standard and custom retaining ring solutions.
More than Parts. A True Partnership.
Our passion is creating the best rings, springs, and clamps. Our mission is to make your work a success. We are here for you.
