A linear wave spring is a continuous wave forming in the shape of a long strip spring. A load-bearing device has roughly the same load and deflection characteristics.
Compared with stamping springs, linear springs use pre-tempered raw materials and rounded edges, and the load and elastic coefficient are more accurate and predictable, 50% better than stamping parts, and the elastic coefficient is stable within the allowable deformation range.
Linear spring has high reliability, excellent performance, no deformation, smooth surface, no pits, scratches, breaks, and other small defects. Stamped springs may have defects such as fatigue fracture and inaccurate loading in the subsequent manufacturing process. In terms of metallurgy, mechanical properties, and dimensional stability, linear springs can provide higher precision quality.
Linear wave spring is used to replace traditional round wire spring with their unique space-saving potential. The use of a wave washer also indirectly reduces the spring assembly space due to the reduced working height of the spring. Smaller installation sizes and less material application result in a significant cost reduction.
It is particularly suitable for applications requiring weight reduction and applications limited by a small installation space. Typical application areas include aerospace, precision machinery, hydraulic seals, and high-end motors.
Although wave washers are not very familiar to some people, you need to know that their scope of application is very wide. A wave spring is an elastic element with several peaks and valleys on a thin metal ring. Therefore, under normal circumstances, it is mainly used in occasions where the load and deformation are not large, the spring stiffness is required to be small and the axial preload must be applied. Therefore, they are especially suitable for some applications requiring weight reduction and some applications restricted by small installation space.
1. Different material composition.
The main disadvantage of carbon steel wave spring is that it is easy to rust, especially in high temperature and high humidity environment. Once rusted, the metal structure of the material corrodes, causing the material to deform and break. Therefore, if the ambient temperature and humidity of the product are high, a stainless steel wave washer should be selected.
2. The production process is different.
The production process of carbon steel material is to obtain the high hardness of the spring produced by the low hardness base material through quenching and tempering. This process results in poor toughness and low service life of carbon steel materials, and the phenomenon of overall spring fracture in practical applications. The stainless steel material is obtained by several calendering by a low hardness base metal mill.
3. Material price difference.
Since the stainless steel material has a chromium content of 16-18% and a nickel content of 6%-8%, the price is 2-3 times more expensive than carbon steel. The same specification of spring, stainless steel spring will be about 2 times more expensive than carbon steel spring.
The spring force of stainless steel spring is lower than that of carbon steel spring, the hardness is lower than that of carbon steel wire, but the service life is long; carbon steel spring wire is easier to rust than stainless steel spring wire, and has higher requirements for the use environment.
There are several common methods for surface treatment of springs, such as bluing, phosphating, electroplating, and electrophoresis.
Oxidation: Heat the spring to an appropriate temperature in air or chemicals to form a blue (or black) oxide film on the surface to improve the corrosion resistance and appearance of the wave spring.
Blackening: The same as the oxidation principle, the spring is heated in the air or directly immersed in a concentrated oxidizing solution to produce a very thin oxide film on the surface of the wave washer. Material protection technology.
The surface of the wave spring should be smooth, no rust, no burrs, no cracks, and a uniform oxide layer.
Lisheng Spring is a professional linear wave spring wholesaler, you are welcome to come to consult.
Linear wave springs are mechanical devices that are used to provide a preload on a fastener or to maintain the position of a component. They offer several advantages over traditional coil springs, including:
Overall, Linear wave spring can be a great option for applications where space is limited, high force and consistent force are needed, as well as consistent performance over time and ease of installation.
OIL TEMPERED (SAE1070-1090), HARD DRAWN SAE 1060 – 1075, stainless steel 304,316,631, 17-7PH(SUS), beryllium copper, phosphor copper, 65Mn, A-286, Inconel Alloy X-750, X-718, Elgiloy, MONEL K-500, MONEL 400 etc.
Design → Drawing→ Flat the wire → CNC Machining → Heat treatment → Surface → Finishing → Quality Inspection → Packing
Part Number | LLS12188-1 | LLS12188-2 | LLS12188-3 | LLS12188-4 | LLS12250-1 | LLS12250-2 | LLS12250-3 | LLS12250-4 |
Number of Waves | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
Thickness (inch) |
0.012 | 0.012 | 0.012 | 0.012 | 0.012 | 0.012 | 0.012 | 0.012 |
Width (inch) |
0.188 | 0.188 | 0.188 | 0.188 | 0.25 | 0.25 | 0.25 | 0.25 |
Length (inch) |
1.5 | 3 | 4.5 | 6 | 1.5 | 3 | 4.5 | 6 |
Free Height (inch) |
0.225 | 0.225 | 0.225 | 0.225 | 0.225 | 0.225 | 0.225 | 0.225 |
Load (lb) |
1.5 | 5.6 | 10.4 | 14.8 | 2.2 | 7.8 | 13.9 | 19.8 |
Work Height (inch) |
0.125 | 0.125 | 0.125 | 0.125 | 0.125 | 0.125 | 0.125 | 0.125 |
Spring Rate (inch/lb) |
11 | 91 | 136 | 182 | 15 | 121 | 181 | 242 |
Wave springs are remarkable mechanical components that have revolutionized the field of engineering with their unique design and versatile applications. These innovative springs offer numerous advantages over traditional coil springs, making them a preferred choice in various industries. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the fascinating world of wave springs, diving into their design, functionality, applications, and the wide range of benefits they provide to engineers and manufacturers.
1.1 What Are Wave Washers?
Wave springs, also known as wave washers or coiled wave washers, are mechanical springs characterized by their distinctive wave-like shape. Unlike traditional coil springs, which are helical in nature, wave springs feature multiple waves or corrugations along their circumference. These waves provide unique mechanical properties, allowing them to store and release energy efficiently.
1.2 Types of Wave Springs
Wave springs come in several variations, including:
2.1 Key Functions of Wave Springs
Wave springs are designed to perform various functions in mechanical assemblies, including:
2.2 Advantages Over Traditional Springs
Wave springs offer numerous advantages compared to traditional coil springs:
3.1 Automotive Industry
Wave springs are widely used in the automotive sector, serving in applications such as:
3.2 Aerospace Industry
In aerospace applications, wave springs are employed in:
3.3 Medical Devices
Wave springs play a crucial role in medical equipment, including:
4.1 Material Selection
Choosing the right material is essential for wave spring performance. Materials like stainless steel, carbon steel, and alloys are commonly used, depending on factors such as corrosion resistance and temperature requirements.
4.2 Size and Configuration
Designers must consider the size, number of waves, and stacking options to meet specific load and deflection requirements.
4.3 Operating Environment
The operating conditions, including temperature, humidity, and exposure to chemicals, impact material selection and design choices.
5.1 Proper Installation
Correct installation is crucial to ensure wave springs function as intended. Engineers and technicians should follow manufacturer guidelines and recommendations.
5.2 Maintenance Practices
Maintaining wave springs, like any mechanical component, is essential to ensure their longevity and optimal performance. Here are some key maintenance tips for wave springs:
6.1 Additive Manufacturing
The emergence of additive manufacturing technologies allows for the production of highly customized and complex wave spring designs, expanding their potential applications.
6.2 Smart Springs
Integrating sensors and data-monitoring capabilities into wave springs is an evolving trend, enabling real-time performance analysis and predictive maintenance.
6.3 Sustainable Materials
The use of eco-friendly and sustainable materials in wave spring production aligns with the growing focus on environmental responsibility.
Wave springs represent a remarkable innovation in the world of mechanical engineering and manufacturing. Their unique design, versatility, and superior performance make them indispensable components in a wide range of applications across industries. As technology continues to advance, the application possibilities for wave washers will only expand, making them an exciting and continually evolving field of study for engineers and manufacturers alike. Understanding the design, functionality, and benefits of wave springs is essential for harnessing their full potential in modern mechanical assemblies.