Spiral Retaining Ring
Retaining Rings & Clips · spirolox (brand) · spiral ring · spiral circlip
Definition: A spiral retaining ring is wound from flat spring wire into a continuous coil, seating 360 degrees in a groove with no lugs and no protruding ears.
Anatomy & Schematic
■ Ring body■ Opening
Governing standards: Manufacturer specified (no universal standard)
Common Sizes
| Inch | Metric | Head width | Head height |
|---|---|---|---|
| for 1/2 shaft | 12 mm | 0.468 groove dia | 0.042 groove |
| for 3/4 shaft | 20 mm | 0.703 groove dia | 0.056 groove |
| for 1 shaft | 25 mm | 0.938 groove dia | 0.061 groove |
Representative sizes. Full dimensional data lives in the standards listed below.
Grades & Strength
| Grade | Material | Tensile (psi) | Marking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon steel | spring steel | — | None |
| Stainless | spring stainless | — | None |
Materials
- Spring steel
- Spring stainless steel
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 360-degree contact — no gap or ears
- Balanced for high speed
- Smooth, snag-free profile
Cons
- Needs a special install/removal technique
- Pricier than a snap ring
- Less tolerant of groove wear
Typical Uses
- High-speed rotating assemblies
- Gearboxes and transmissions
- Aerospace and precision equipment
- Where lugs would interfere
Alternatives & Related
Where to Buy
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FAQ
Spiral ring vs snap ring?
A spiral ring has no lugs or gap, giving full 360-degree contact and high-speed balance; a snap ring has lugs and a gap but installs faster with pliers.
How do you remove a spiral retaining ring?
Pry a turn loose at the notch with a pick, then unspiral it out of the groove with the tool or a flat screwdriver.