Say Goodbye to Choice Fatigue: The Ultimate Guide to Selecting Wave Springs vs. Normal Springs

When faced with numerous choices, how do you select the right spring for your application? Wave springs and regular springs (such as coil springs) both offer unique advantages, but they differ significantly in design, performance, and application. Today, we present a detailed guide to help you make the right choice between wave springs and regular springs and say goodbye to choice fatigue!

Wave Springs vs. Regular Springs

1. Structure and Design

• Wave Springs:
  Wave springs are made from a flat strip of material that is formed into a wave shape, allowing them to provide stable force in a very compact space. They are ideal for applications with limited space and are capable of providing consistent preload, especially in high-frequency applications.

  • Advantages: Space-saving, efficient preload, ideal for dynamic loads, and frequent operations.

• Regular Springs (Coil Springs):
  Regular springs, such as coil springs, are made by winding a metal wire or strip into a spiral shape, typically used for larger sizes and higher load requirements. They are commonly used for static loads or applications with longer stroke distances.

  • Advantages: Easy to manufacture, widely applicable, particularly suitable for static loads or longer travel.

2. Application Range

• Wave Springs:
  Ideal for applications where space is limited, such as in motors, bearings, valves, and electronic devices.

  • Common in high-frequency dynamic load applications such as automotive, aerospace, and industrial automation equipment.

• Regular Springs:
  Suitable for large load and long stroke applications, such as in automotive suspension systems, large machinery, and industrial equipment.

  • Commonly used for static loads or low-frequency load applications.

3. Load Capacity and Stiffness

• Wave Springs:
  Compared to regular springs, wave springs can provide higher load-bearing capacity and greater stiffness in the same space. Multi-turn wave springs offer more load and higher stiffness, making them suitable for applications requiring higher preload.

  • Ideal for applications requiring high preload and efficient use of space.

• Regular Springs:
  Coil springs typically have lower stiffness and are suited for low to medium load ranges. They provide a greater stroke distance, making them suitable for longer travel applications.

4. Installation and Space Considerations

• Wave Springs:
  Due to their unique wave design, wave springs can perform efficiently in compact spaces. They are ideal for applications where installation space is constrained and size optimization is essential.

• Regular Springs:
  Coil springs generally require more space, making them suitable for larger components or applications with a longer stroke distance.

• Wave Springs vs. Regular Springs: A Buying Guide

  When to Choose a Wave Spring?

  1. Space Limitations: If your application has limited space, wave springs are the ideal choice.
  2. Consistent Preload: Wave springs are perfect for applications that require uniform preload and high precision.
  3. High Load Requirements: For high-load and high-frequency applications, multi-turn wave springs provide the best support.

  When to Choose a Regular Spring (Coil Spring)?

  1. Long Stroke Requirements: If your application requires a longer travel distance or stroke, regular coil springs offer greater flexibility.
  2. Low to Medium Load: Regular springs are better suited for low to medium-load applications.
  3. Cost Considerations: Regular coil springs are often more cost-effective for large-scale applications, providing a reliable and economical solution.