Disc springs provide precision and high performance

Christian Bauer disc springs are manufactured to the tolerances, material specifications and performance parameters contained in DIN 2093. They provide highly reliable 'elastic' technical components which can form the 'building block' elements of spring packs. Under applied load, the spring yields with a defined and repeatable deformation, causing energy to be stored within the spring.

With their precise and controlled characteristics, disc springs are becoming ever more recognised as useful components where there is a need for high forces, compact dimensions, precise movement, long-term reliability and virtually maintenance-free operation.

Automotive

Some innovative automotive applications include a slotted disc spring for alternators to provide tolerance compensation, stress and vibration damping, together with resistance to high temperatures, corrosion and salt water attack. In another application, a disc spring pack is used for dynamic pressure control within an exhaust pipe assembly involving metallic and ceramic elements. One further example is a self-securing disc spring that is used on a differential gear shaft to eliminate a circlip. Finally, a parallel assembly spring pack is used in an electro-hydraulic parking brake to complement the electro-mechanical lock/release mechanism.

Machine tools

Machine shop applications include disc springs providing piston lock to withstand stamping forces on a 2000 tonne stamping press, together with a spring pack assembly used within a tool holder for drilling, turning or milling applications.

General engineering

General engineering uses include slotted disc springs used for a compressor clutch, with a single disc spring providing sealing pressure for a feeder valve used with liquid plastics or resins. Disc springs have also been used within a large Cardan joint assembly used as a rolling mill drive unit.

Other applications

Other unusual applications include spring packs used to clamp thyristors between conductor rails in transformers, providing length compensation during temperature changes. Disc springs are also being used within sonic ground boring equipment, and fixed-stop energy absorption for vehicles, weights or other large masses such as ships.

Interesting individual component applications include a combi-screw incorporating a captive slotted disc spring washer to provide a positive pressure-sensitive assembly. A series disc spring pack assembly has been used within a ball castor to prevent axial force overloads, with rotary ball-bearing cages incorporating backlash compensation provided by either plain or slotted disc springs.

Disc springs typically combine higher forces within smaller heights compared with other spring types and are generally employed when high forces are needed for compensation due to thermal expansion or for tolerances. Individual discs can be combined in series, parallel or mixed-stack combinations to provide custom spring characteristics.

Further information is available on request from Bauer Springs Ltd.