Axial tapered section retaining rings, otherwise known as circlips, are the most common and effective style of retaining rings, widely used for their versatility and strength. These rings feature a tapered design where the height decreases symmetrically throughout the radial wall, from the top of the ring to the free ends and lugs. Known for their reliable retention and axial load support, this shape provides a secure grip in the groove, enabling them to withstand significant thrust loading.
Rotor Clip’s circlips are the trusted choice, offered in a wide range of sizes, materials and finishes as a standard, with almost limitless customization options to meet your specific needs. All our tapered section rings are manufactured in-house, from raw materials to finished product, meeting global standards including but not limited to ANSI (imperial), DIN and JIS (metric). Whatever your specific requirement, we will find the right ring for your application—every time. If we don’t have it, we’ll collaborate with you to create one.
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Beveled and bowed retaining rings provide unique advantages as alternatives to other styles of tapered section rings, enhancing performance and ease of use for specific applications.
Beveled retaining rings serve a niche purpose beyond a regular circlip. Utilizing the ring’s spring characteristics within its own plane, the ring features a 15 degree bevel along the outer or inner edge to securely lock and wedge in place against the mating component. The corresponding groove profile ensures that the beveled wall bears the load. Precise calculation of groove location is critical to ensuring optimal performance.
Bowed retaining rings are designed to compensate for accumulated tolerances, wear in assemblies, and exert pressure on retained parts in low load applications. Bowed retaining rings are compressed under pressure and will return to their original height once pressure is released. Whether partially or fully flattened, these rings exert counter-pressure, functioning similarly to a spring to eliminate endplay.
Rotor Clip Tapered Section Rings and Circlips are available in a variety of materials, from carbon steel and stainless steels to beryllium copper, phosphor bronze, and more. Our multi-disciplined engineers apply their wide expertise to deliver rings that offer superior strength, reliability, and performance in any application.
Circlips are commonly used in automotive, industrial, and medical applications for their robust thrust-loading capabilities and reliable retention. They are ideal for securing components in critical applications such as EV motors, actuators, and pulleys, ensuring long-lasting durability in demanding environments.
In 2009, we proudly welcomed Waldes Truarc into the Rotor Clip family. This acquisition wasn’t just about adding patents, trademarks, and logos to our portfolio—it was about continuing a legacy. Utilize our part number interchange chart now to easily cross-reference between Waldes Truarc, Industrial Retaining Ring® (IRR), and Rotor Clip retaining ring designations.
At Rotor Clip, we’re here to help you every step of the way to customize your tapered section retaining rings. Whether you need adjustments in load capacity, rotational tolerance, end configurations, section thickness, or specific materials and finishes, we’ve got you covered. From start to finish, we ensure your rings meet your exact needs.
Designed for high-volume applications, axial tapered section rings offer a simple, automated installation process with lugs and lug holes for easy handling. The ring is compressed using retaining ring pliers and slides into place within grooves in cylindrical components like housings or bores. Once installed, it ensures a secure, reliable assembly, keeping all components firmly in position while remaining simple to remove when needed.
Rotor Clip’s Automated Assembly streamlines manufacturing by reducing costs while enhancing production speed and consistency. To maximize efficiency, feed equipment should be designed to accommodate the helix and pitch limitations of the specific retaining ring being used. Failure to do so may require special processing, increasing costs and complexity. By integrating proper design considerations, manufacturers can ensure smooth operation and long-term reliability.
Contact our team now to learn more about automated assembly
Explore More Frequently Asked Questions About Retaining Rings
A tapered section retaining ring, commonly referred to as a circlip, is a type of fastener designed to secure components within mechanical assemblies. It features a tapered cross-section where the height of the ring decreases symmetrically from the top to the free ends. This design allows the ring to wedge securely into a groove on a shaft (external) or within a housing/bore (internal), creating a firm and reliable hold. Tapered section retaining rings (circlips) often include lugs and lug holes for easy installation and removal. They are available in various materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, and specialty alloys, to suit diverse application requirements across automotive, industrial, medical, and other industries.
Circlips, or tapered section retaining rings, are installed using retaining ring pliers, which engage the lugs or holes to compress or expand the ring for placement in a groove. Depending on the application, manual or pneumatic tools can be used for easier installation. Rotor Clip also offers custom tool solutions and engineering support for specialized or high-volume assembly needs.
If your application can accommodate either an axial or radial tapered section retaining ring, the choice depends on factors like shoulder size, thrust load, and RPM requirements. Carefully review these specifications to ensure the best fit for your needs.
Not sure which part is right for your application? Contact our engineering team for assistance.
Resources
Explore some of our most popular resources about circlips, snap rings, and retaining rings.
