How much force can a retaining ring hold?

A self-locking retaining ring, which does not need a groove, provides 66 lbs. of static thrust load capacity; an external retaining ring for the same application installed in a soft groove provides 1,200 lbs.

What do snap rings hold?

A retaining ring is a fastener that holds components or assemblies onto a shaft or in a housing/bore when installed – typically in a groove – for one time use only. Once installed, the exposed portion acts as a shoulder which retains the specific component or assembly.

What is the difference between a snap ring and a retaining ring?

Expert Reply: There really isn’t a difference. Snap-ring and retaining ring such as # 410-21 are two names for the same thing.

Should snap rings be reused?

Also known as snap rings, these fasteners are removable and reusable. Self-locking retaining rings do not require a groove for installation.

What kind of snap rings do you use?

Hold open retaining rings without holes, such as flat- and pointed-tip lock rings. Also known as Eaton- style, constant- section, and horseshoe snap rings. The spring on one end of the tool holds the retaining ring in position for installation and the hook on the other end is for removal.

What is the load capacity of a Smalley retaining ring?

Although not commonly associated as a typical failure of Smalley Retaining Rings, ring shear can be a design limitation when hardened steel is used as a groove material. Ring thrust load capacities based on ring shear are provided within our tables of standard rings.

How much static thrust can a retaining ring hold?

A self-locking retaining ring, which does not need a groove, provides 66 lbs. of static thrust load capacity; an external retaining ring for the same application installed in a soft groove provides 1,200 lbs. of static load capacity with a safety factor of 2.

What are the formulas for Spiral retaining rings?

The following pages of Spiral Retaining Ring and Snap Ring engineering design have been developed from over 40 years of extensive testing and research into the various applications of retaining rings. The formulas are provided for the preliminary analysis of a ring application and the design of a Smalley®Retaining Ring.