Finishing Options for Retaining Rings and Wave Springs

Whether you need added corrosion resistance or wish to change the appearance of your part, TFC can offer a wide range of finishing processes to ensure that your retaining rings and springs perform the way they need to in your application.

Finishes, Plating & Coating

After selecting the appropriate material for your application, adding a finish, plating, or coating may be necessary to meet your application requirements. These additional processes can improve the part's function, look, and performance.

Black Oxide

MIL-DTL-13924, Class 1

This finish provides a flat black appearance that is generally used to alter cosmetic appearance instead of an improvement in corrosion resistance.

Oil Dip

This is the standard finish for all products produced from carbon steel. The oil provides

resistance to corrosion in transport and regular storage. The oil dip finish should not be considered a permanent finish.

Passivation

AMS 2700, Method 1, Type 2, Class 3

Passivation is an optional cleaning operation for stainless steel. It provides a bright finish and increased corrosion resistance. Passivation dissolves iron particles and other substances that have become embedded in the surface of the stainless steel during production. These foreign particles could promote corrosion, discolouration, or pitting if not dissolved.

Vapor Degrease/Ultrasonic Clean

This is the standard cleaning and finish for all products manufactured in stainless steel. The process removes oil and other organic compounds from the material surface using a degreasing solvent, which is forced between the turns of the part with ultrasonic waves.

Vibratory Deburr/Hand Deburr

Although all circumferential surfaces and edges of products are smooth, sharp corners can be present on the gap ends due to the cut-off operation. To break the sharp corners and achieve a smooth surface finish, parts may be vibratory or hand-deburred to meet your specifications.

Zinc Phosphate

MIL-DTL-16232, Type Z, Class 2

Sometimes referred to as "Parkerising," zinc phosphate appears grey-black in colour. Its corrosion resistance is superior to that of black oxide but inferior to that of stainless steel. Zinc phosphate cannot be applied to stainless steel.

Zinc Plating

Zinc Plate, ASTM B633, Type V, Fe/Zn 5, SC1 (Colourless)

Zinc Plate, ASTM B633, Type VI, Fe/Zn 5, SC1 (Coloured Chromate)

Zinc plating is used on carbon steel to increase the product's corrosion resistance. It is sometimes used as a more cost-effective alternative to other plating options or stainless steel. Standard zinc platings, Type V and Type VI, are RoHS compliant. The thickness level of the plating is controlled by the service condition number (SC Number), which should be designated by the customer. Zinc plating does not guarantee coverage between the turns of multiple turn rings and springs. (The process does subject the part to the possibility of hydrogen embrittlement. We offer stainless steel as a preferable alternative.)

TFC, an AFC Industries Company, has been the leading European supplier of Smalley Retaining Rings and Flat Wire Wave Spring products for more than thirty years. With a National and European network of logistic service centres employing over one hundred people, our highly trained internal and field-based application engineers are readily available to assist in the selection of the ideal product to suit your application.

Smalley is the Engineer's Choice® in providing edgewound wave springs, retaining rings, and constant section rings for all your application needs.

All Smalley products are manufactured in its 300,000 square foot, U.S-based facility. In accordance with the requirements of ISO 13485:2015, ISO 9001:2015, IATF 16949:2016, AS9100:2016, and ISO 14001:2015.

TFC and Smalley have worked in partnership for over 30 years to support customers worldwide with unparalleled quality products and service.

You can find more information regarding our range of Retaining Rings and Wave Springs HERE

Download our Retaining Rings and Wave Springs Catalogue HERE 

Request a Smalley Retaining Rings and Wave Springs sample – you can either specify a specific sample, or we will send you a range of samples – just fill out this form

About the Author

Justin Lawrence – Technical Manager

Justin specialises in the design and sale of wave springs, spiral retaining rings and quick connectors, designing custom products for a range of applications including oil & gas, automotive and medical. Justin has been with TFC for over 20 years, gaining further experience in the mechanical and industrial engineering sector.

Connect with Justin on LinkedIn.