Wavo Spring Washers (Round Wire)

Wave Wire Spring Washers for Tolerance Compensation and Axial Preload

Wave wire spring washers are ring-shaped spring elements manufactured from round spring wire. When compressed axially, the waves deform elastically and generate a defined spring force. They are therefore suitable for compensating for axial tolerances, preloading components and absorbing vibrations or temperature-related dimensional changes.

Their compact design allows them to be used in restricted radial and axial installation spaces. Typical applications include bearing arrangements, electric motors, gearboxes, pumps and other mechanical assemblies.

Use the product table above to select a suitable version by bore diameter, shaft diameter, wire diameter, free height, test height, spring force and material.

Meaning of the Specifications in the Product Table

The test height L1 and spring force F1 must always be considered together. The force F1 only applies at the corresponding height L1.

Spring Travel and Selection

The spring travel is calculated from the difference between the free height L0 and the installed height L:

s = L0 − L

Here, s is the spring travel in millimetres. The load-deflection characteristic is approximately linear over a large part of the usable spring travel. Close to the fully compressed position, the required force may increase more sharply due to increasing contact and friction between the spring and the supporting surfaces.

Proceed in the following order when selecting a wave wire spring washer:

1. Determine the installation diameters: Define the bore diameter Dh and shaft diameter Dd according to the available installation space.

2. Determine the working height: Establish the axial height of the spring in the installed condition.

3. Calculate the spring travel: Subtract the working height from the free height L0.

4. Check the spring force: Select a version whose force F1 at a suitable test height L1 corresponds to the required preload.

5. Consider the tolerances: Check the minimum and maximum possible installed heights and the resulting changes in spring force.

6. Assess the type of loading: Distinguish between static preload, occasional movement and frequently cycled loading.

7. Select the material: Consider humidity, corrosion, temperature and contact with surrounding media.

The wave wire spring washer should not be selected solely by its installation diameters. The actual working height and the spring force required at this height are equally important. Compression significantly below the test height L1 should only be carried out after technical assessment.

Advantages and Installation Recommendations

Wave wire spring washers are manufactured from round spring wire and therefore differ from stamped or coiled spring washers made from flat spring strip. They provide a compact design, compensate for axial play and can absorb vibrations and thermally induced dimensional changes.

The spring diameter may change slightly during compression. The specified bore and shaft diameters must therefore be observed. If the bore is too small, the spring may rub against the housing wall or become blocked. If the shaft is too large, movement at the inside diameter may be restricted.

For reliable operation, we recommend:

• providing flat and preferably parallel supporting surfaces,

• applying the load evenly in the axial direction,

• allowing sufficient clearance to the bore and shaft,

• using burr-free supporting and guiding surfaces,

• guiding the spring securely against lateral displacement,

• maintaining sufficient distance from the fully compressed position.

For frequently cycled applications, the function should be tested under actual installation conditions.

Materials

Spring Steel Wire 1.1200

Spring steel wire 1.1200 provides high strength and is suitable for many applications in dry or suitably protected environments. Without an appropriate coating or protective treatment, the material is not permanently corrosion-resistant.

Stainless Spring Steel 1.4568

Precipitation-hardening stainless spring steel 1.4568, also known as 17-7 PH, combines high strength with good corrosion resistance for many industrial applications. Its suitability must be assessed according to temperature, contact with media, loading and the required service life.

Typical Applications and Custom Versions

Wave wire spring washers are commonly used in:

• ball and roller bearing arrangements,

• electric motors and gearboxes,

• pumps and compressors,

• machinery and fixtures,

• automotive components,

• precision mechanical assemblies,

• measuring and control devices.

In addition to the standard dimensions available from stock, wave wire spring washers can be manufactured according to individual requirements. Customisable characteristics include bore and shaft diameters, wire diameter, free height, working height, spring force, material and surface finish.

For a technical enquiry, please provide information about the available installation space, minimum and maximum working heights, required spring force, type of loading and operating conditions.

Further information on selection and design can be found in our Spring Washer FAQ.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wave Wire Spring Washers

What is the difference between L0 and L1?

L0 is the free height of the unloaded wave wire spring washer. L1 is the defined compressed height at which the spring force F1 is specified.

What do bore diameter Dh and shaft diameter Dd mean?

Dh is the inside diameter of the surrounding bore or housing. Dd is the outside diameter of the shaft or mandrel. Both values are installation dimensions.

Can the spring washer be compressed below the test height L1?

Further compression generally results in higher forces and material stresses. Compression significantly below L1 should therefore only be carried out after technical assessment.

What is the difference between a wave wire spring washer and a stamped spring washer?

A wave wire spring washer is manufactured from round spring wire. A stamped spring washer is manufactured from flat spring strip or sheet material. The two designs therefore differ in geometry, installation requirements and load-deflection behaviour.