While traditional round-wire compression or coil springs have been a staple in engineering design for decades, Crest-to-Crest wave springs provide a compelling alternative that can solve many of the limitations inherent in coil spring technology. Both types of springs manage force and absorb or store energy, but they do so with unique characteristics that impact design possibilities.
One of the primary advantages of Crest-to-Crest wave springs over coil springs is their compact form. These wave springs can produce equivalent force and deflection while occupying up to 50 percent less axial space than a typical coil spring. This is invaluable for applications where space is at a premium, such as aerospace components, automotive systems, and consumer electronics. By enabling designers to reduce the spring height, wave springs contribute to a sleeker, more efficient component layout – allowing for smaller, lighter and more portable products.
In terms of versatility, wave springs offer additional benefits.
Read the full article in DPA's January 2025 issue