Constant section retaining ring
Constant section retaining rings are also known as snap rings. Their circumferential width is uniform and they have three contact points with the groove. Due to the lug-free design, constant section retaining rings perform well in applications with small clearances or limited space. Customers often choose constant section snap ring because their cross-sections are sturdy, which can effectively enhance their ability to withstand impact loads.
Constant section retaining rings are installed horizontally in the grooves on the housing or shaft. During installation and disassembly, no special tools are required, but some constant section retaining rings have grooves at the ends for easy installation.
Constant section retaining rings are produced by edge winding method, without the cost of custom tools. For many years, they have been the standard choice for engineers in the automotive and heavy equipment industries.
The common materials of constant section retaining rings are:
- Stainless steel: It has good corrosion resistance and is suitable for working in humid and corrosive environments.
- Carbon steel: It has high strength and cost-effectiveness and is often used in general mechanical components.
- Alloy steel: It has high strength and wear resistance. Chromium-molybdenum alloy steel is often used in occasions that bear large loads and wear.
Different materials have different performance characteristics. When choosing, it should be determined according to the specific usage environment and requirements.
Features of constant section retaining rings:
- Uniform cross-section: It has a uniform width along its circumference, providing stable support and fixation effects.
- High strength: Due to its sturdy cross-sectional design, it can effectively withstand impact loads.
- Space adaptability: Suitable for application scenarios with compact spaces and limited clearances, and is easy to install due to its lug-free design.
- Diverse configurations: Various end configurations can be provided according to application requirements.
Installation steps of constant section retaining rings:
Preparation before installation
1.Prepare tools and materials:
- Retaining ring: Ensure that the retaining ring matches the diameter of the shaft.
- File (if needed): Used to trim the inner hole of the bearing housing to make it flat.
- Gloves and glasses: Used to protect the installer’s hands and eyes.
- Lubricant (optional): Before placing the retaining ring, a little lubricant can be applied on the shaft to facilitate installation.
2. Cleaning and inspection:
- Use a cleaning agent to clean the inner holes of the shaft and the bearing housing to remove possible grease and dirt.
- Check whether the inner holes of the shaft and the bearing housing are flat. If there are any dents or impurities, carefully trim them with a file.
Installation steps
1. Positioning:
- Place the retaining ring on the shaft and ensure it is at the predetermined position of the bearing housing. For imperial constant section snap ring, there are usually two different end faces, one is a flat surface and the other is a spiral. During installation, ensure that the flat end face is towards the bottom of the bearing housing.
2. Use installation tools (if needed):
- For some types of retaining rings, specific installation tools such as sleeves and tapered plugs may be required. These tools can assist in gradually pushing the retaining ring into the inner hole of the bearing housing.
- If there are no dedicated tools, you can also try to install it manually. For example, pull one end of the retaining ring with your hand and insert it into the groove, then press down and wind the retaining ring along the periphery of the groove until the retaining ring is completely wound into the groove.
3. Apply force evenly:
- During the process of pushing in the retaining ring, apply force evenly to avoid damaging the retaining ring or the base. If you encounter difficulties, do not install forcefully. You should check if there are impurities or uneven places that need to be trimmed.
4. Check the position:
- After the installation is completed, check whether the retaining ring is evenly distributed in the inner hole of the bearing housing and ensure the tight contact between the retaining ring and the shaft. If any problems are found, such as incorrect position or looseness of the retaining ring, adjustments should be made immediately.
Constant section retaining rings are usually used in industrial applications of all walks of life, and can provide a safe and effective method to fix components.
