Wave Spring Washers FAQs

1. Can it deflect past H1?
Yes. It should be noted that loads are greater than computed when a washer is deflected more than 80% of its available travel. It must be understood that the spring may set, however.

2. Is the spring magnetic?
Type 302 stainless steel is slightly magnetic.

3. What are the advantages of Parallel stacking?
Although Parallel stacking increases the load proportionally to the number of washers, it is not recommended, due to the manner in which wave washers orientate in parallel.

4. What are the advantages of Series stacking?
Series stacking increases the amount of available travel. The load-carrying ability of the stack does not increase. In a theoretical world, the applied load is equally transmitted to each washer. To stack properly, spacers must be inserted between washers.

5. What is the finish?
It is that of the plain material. Carbon steel is oiled to prevent corrosion.

6. What is the linearity?
Wave washers are linear between 20 and 80% of the spring's available travel. Available travel can be computed by subtracting the thickness "t" from the height "H".

7. What kind of plating?
Electroplating is permitted although Hydrogen cracking is still possible. Mechanical plating can be used as an alternative because it substantially reduces this risk. The washers can also be black-oxided, or phosphate-coated.