Bearing disc springs are commonly used in ball bearing assemblies. Also known as conical spring washers, they are characterized by a cone-like shape.
Unlike traditional extension and compression springs, bearing disc springs aren’t made of wire coil. Instead, they are typically made of high-quality spring steel or stainless steel. Bearing disc springs feature a cupped, conical design that allows them to flatten under a load — similar to how a compression spring compresses under a load. Below are six things to consider when choosing a bearing disc spring.
#1) Split vs Solid
Some bearing disc springs are split, whereas others are solid. Split bearing disc springs have a small cutout. Solid bearing disc springs do not. Both styles feature a cone-like shape with a hollow center, but solid bearing disc springs typically provide a more uniform pushing force.
#2) Free Height
You should consider the free height when choosing a bearing disc spring. Also known as the free length, it’s a measurement of how tall or long a bearing disc spring is without a load. When exposed to a load, bearing disc springs will flatten, thereby becoming shorter. Some bearing disc springs have a free height of just 0.02 inches, whereas others have a free height of over 2 inches.
#3) Shaft Diameter
The shaft diameter represents the inner diameter of a bearing disc spring. The shaft, of course, should fit through the center of a bearing disc spring. If it’s too wide, though, it may fit. And if the shaft is too narrow, it will fit loosely. You can avoid problems such as these by choosing a bearing disc spring with the right shaft diameter.
#4) Outer Diameter
In addition to the shaft diameter, you should consider the outer diameter when choosing a bearing disc spring. The outer diameter represents the length from the outer edge of a bearing disc spring to the outer edge on the opposite side.
#5) Material
Most bearing disc springs are made of stainless steel or spring steel. Stainless steel, of course, is an iron alloy with a chromium content of 10.5% or more. It’s known for being highly resistant to rust and corrosion. Spring steel, on the other hand, is known for its superior fatigue resistance. It can bend and return to its original shape without succumbing to permanent deformation.
#6) Thickness
Something else to consider when choosing a bearing disc spring is the thickness. While most bearing disc springs are made of spring steel or stainless steel, some are thicker than others. Thick bearing disc springs are typically stronger and able to support heavier loads, but they require more force to compress and flatten.