Drag to rotate 3D view; slider simulates compression travel. Schematic representation only; refer to technical drawings and load ratings for actual design.
What is a Wave Spring Washer?
A wave spring washer (commonly known as a wave washer) is a stamped metallic washer shaped with 3, 4, or 6 gentle sinusoidal waves around its circumference.
When compressed between two flat faces, the waves flatten elastically, generating a steady axial spring force that absorbs manufacturing tolerances, prevents thermal play, and dampens mechanical vibration.
Detailed Comparison: Wave Washer vs Flat Washer vs Helical Lock Washer
Selecting the proper washer type depends on whether the design objective is load spreading, elastic preloading, or thread locking:
| Feature | Flat Washer (DIN 125) | Helical Split Washer (DIN 127) | Wave Spring Washer (GB/T 94.3) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Distributes bolt clamping force over larger area | Prevents bolt back-off via biting edges | Continuous elastic axial preload & play take-up |
| Elastic Deflection | Essentially zero (rigid steel) | Minimal (flattens during bolt torque) | Moderate (0.5mm to 3mm flexible travel) |
| Dynamic Compliance | Cannot absorb dynamic wear or vibration | Very low elasticity after flattening | Maintains constant preload across thermal cycles |
| Bearing Preload Suitability | Unusable (causes rigid binding) | Unusable (damages bearing faces) | Ideal for light bearing preload & noise reduction |
Common Materials and Surface Coatings
Wave washers are commonly fabricated from 65Mn spring steel (with black oxide or zinc plating), 304/316 stainless steel, and beryllium copper (for electrical grounding contacts).
For high-cycle dynamic preloads, 17-7PH stainless steel prevents stress relaxation.
Determining Required Preload Force
When sizing a wave washer for rolling element bearing preloading, follow the standard AFBMA guideline: Recommended Preload Force (N) = 5 to 15 times the bearing bore diameter in millimeters (d_bore).
Ensure the working height of the compressed washer corresponds to 50% to 75% of its free wave height.
Critical Installation Guidelines
Ensure both seating faces are smooth and flat. Avoid sharp chamfers that might allow the wave crests to drop into grooves or distort under load.
When to Choose a Wave Washer vs a Coiled Wave Spring
Choose a Wave Washer when: Space is limited to a single stamped layer (<2mm), required force is low, and the application is cost-sensitive commercial hardware.
Choose a Coiled Wave Spring when: Precision load (+/- 10%), high travel (>2mm), high fatigue life (>1 million cycles), and repeatable dynamic linear rate are required.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a wave washer prevent bolts from loosening?
- Wave washers maintain bolt tension against vibration and thermal settling, but for severe transverse vibration, wedge-locking washers (e.g. Nord-Lock) or threadlocker adhesives are recommended.
- What happens if a wave washer is compressed completely flat?
- Compressing a wave washer solid eliminates its elasticity. If compressed beyond its elastic yield point, it will take a permanent set and will no longer maintain preload upon thermal contraction.
- Why do some wave washers have 3 waves while others have 4 or 6 waves?
- A 3-wave design provides statistically stable 3-point kinematic planar contact without rocking. 4 or 6 waves increase the spring rate and load capacity for larger diameters.
Related Engineering Guides
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