Wave Springs: Single-Turn, Multi-Turn, Round-Wire, Nested & Linear Wave Spring Styles

A wave spring is a unique type of flat wire compression spring with a distinctive waveform-like design. Think of it as a spring that compresses and expands in a wave-like motion, similar to the natural waves in water. Unlike traditional coil springs or disc springs, wave springs are engineered to be more compact while still delivering efficient compression and deflections.

Wave springs deliver up to 50% tighter force tolerances than standard wave washers and offer more consistent performance. They maintain a more predictable loading throughout a wider range of movement, making them a more reliable choice for. Rather than stacking wave washers, a single wave spring can be used as a single part solution, simplifying assembly and reducing room for errors.

Wave springs generally have lower fatigue rates compared to traditional coil springs, meaning they tend to last longer. When used correctly within their designed deflection range, wave springs can outlast coil springs. They also take up about half the space, which can help reduce both weight and space in your assembly—important factors that contribute to their longer lifespan.

There are several ways to address this challenge. Depending on the application and environment, you could increase the wire thickness to handle higher loads. If a thicker wire isn’t feasible for the spring size, consider using a nested wave spring, where multiple layers are coiled together to distribute the load. Alternatively, increasing the number of waves can also boost load capacity. Lastly, selecting a different material may provide the necessary stiffness and durability for higher force requirements.

When choosing the right wave spring, it’s important to consider factors like the application type, available space, and load requirements. Different types of wave springs, such as Single-Turn, Multi-Turn, or Nested, offer unique benefits for various applications. For example, wave springs designed for high-acceleration environments like EV applications can also be beneficial in similar use cases. Rotor Clip’s engineers can assist you in determining the best option based on your specific needs. Contact us now, and we’ll help guide you to the right solution.