Retaining Rings

Are snap rings the same as retaining rings?

Yes, retaining rings are also called snap rings.

What are the advantages of snap rings?

• Snap rings prevent the axial movement / shifting of the attached components in the bearing seats by absorbing the forces.
• They are cheaper than other fastening technologies.
• They require minimal shaft / housing preparation, including threading, tapping or drilling procedures.

What is the difference between external and internal retaining rings?

An internal retaining ring fits into housing or bore, whereas an external retaining ring fits over or around a shaft or pin.

How to install and remove a snap ring?

• Internal retaining / snap rings are compressed whereas external snap rings are expanded to install / remove from a shaft or housing groove.
• Retaining rings without any holes can be installed by pushing them into the grooves of a shaft / housing. Similarly, they can be removed by pulling them using a screwdriver.
• Spiral retaining rings (both internal & external) can be spiralled into the groove and removed by prying one end out of the groove using a screwdriver.
• Circlips feature holes that can be squeezed / expanded using a specialised plier for installing or removing them.
• Bowed / poodle retaining rings or E-Clips can be installed or removed using an E-ring tool or plier.
• NOTE: Most of these retaining rings can be installed / removed using a screwdriver. But, due to the spring effect of these rings, there is a risk of them flying off if improperly handled. Users should wear proper safety equipment like safety goggles to prevent injuries.

Can we reuse a retaining ring?

Most retaining rings or snap rings can be removed and reused multiple times without any issue, provided that the stress generated during installation is kept minimal. However, selected models of snap rings like self-locking retaining rings get permanently locked with the shaft / housing and cannot be removed without breaking or warping the ring out of specified tolerances.