Smalley rings are made by edgewinding, resulting in a circumferential grain structure, giving exceptional strength, dimensional stability, and a burr-free yet flexible solution. Before edgewinding, the round wire is processed through a rolling mill to achieve a flat state. The edgewinding process then takes the flat wire and coils it on edge.

A further benefit of the edgewinding process is zero tooling costs, so whether it's a prototype or production run, modifications can quickly and easily be made during any stage of the process, so custom rings get delivered fast and with No-Tooling-Cost™. This method also ensures that the production product is identical to the prototype for worry-free manufacturing.

When examining potential uses for Smalley’s versatile wave springs, Aerospace, Automotive, and Medical applications are usually the first to come to mind. Granted, there are probably thousands of designs where wave springs are a viable solution, but that only scratches the surface of the capabilities of these innovative products.

A unique application that utilizes wave spring technology is athletic shoes.

The performance of a quality athletic or casual shoe is determined by the amount of shock absorption it provides while being used. Typically, Smalley wave springs are relied upon in high-load assemblies, so it’s easy to see why they could be considered as a solution as a shock absorber for the body.

Most manufacturing assemblies have weight requirements, and in some instances, have limited space for a conventional coil spring. These conditions are very much like those found in the sole of a shoe.

Smalley wave springs provide space-saving capabilities in a very lightweight design. Wave springs are roughly half the height of coil springs while still providing the capacity to absorb the heavy, repeatable loads created by a machining turret or a jog around the neighbourhood. The practical use in a shoe is an example of how the wave springs are apt for both static (standing) and dynamic (running) purposes across a variety of processes.

Athletic shoes using wave spring technology showcases how Smalley products are used across different industries, from casual consumer products to space exploration and everything in between. Custom solutions are one of Smalley’s areas of expertise. Design considerations such as available space, intended function, environment, and consistent performance are all factors that play significant roles in the design process.

Delegates will learn:
• Benefits to product design of considering wave springs
• How to specify the requirements for a wave spring
• When to consider using a Spirolox retaining rings
• Revolox® rings and locking rings for higher speed applications
• Why TFC are the leading European supplier of Smalley rings and springs