Disc springs

Disc springs, also known as Belleville washers, are conical-shaped metal discs designed to support high compressive loads with minimal deflection in compact spaces where traditional helical springs are often unsuitable. They store energy by flattening under load and are highly versatile due to their stacking capabilities to achieve various force and deflection requirements.
Design and Function
The unique design of disc springs allows for a high spring force within a short area of movement and provides unique load-deflection characteristics.
Conical Shape: The slight conical shape allows the disc to act as a spring when a force is applied along its central axis.
High Load Capacity in Limited Space: They are the optimal solution when high forces are required but travel (deflection) is relatively limited, due to their short solid height.
Customizable Performance: The load/deflection curve can be influenced by adjusting the disc's geometry (height-to-thickness ratio), allowing for linear or non-linear characteristics.
Stacking Versatility: Disc springs can be arranged in custom configurations to achieve specific force and deflection requirements:
Series Stacking (alternating orientation): Increases the total deflection for the same load.
Parallel Stacking (same orientation): Increases the total load capacity for the same deflection.
Combination Stacking: Offers endless possibilities to customize the force-deflection curve.
Self-Damping: When stacked in parallel, the friction between the mating surfaces provides effective shock absorption and vibration damping.
Materials
Disc springs are manufactured from robust materials to ensure durability and performance in demanding environments. Common materials include:
Chrome Vanadium Steel (50CrV4 / AISI 6150): This is the most commonly used material, known for its high strength, toughness, and excellent fatigue resistance.
High Carbon Steel (CK75 / SAE 1070): A general-purpose, economical choice with good strength for thinner springs (under 1.25 mm thickness), though it requires protective coatings in corrosive environments.
Stainless Steel (e.g., Type 302, 316, 17-7PH): Offers excellent corrosion resistance and performs well over a wide temperature range, making it suitable for medical, marine, or food processing applications.
Specialty Alloys: Materials such as Inconel 718 or Nimonic 90 are used for extreme temperature (high or cryogenic) or highly corrosive conditions.
Common Applications
Due to their ability to provide high force in a small, reliable package, disc springs are essential components in numerous critical industries.
Fastening Systems (Bolt Preloading): They maintain a precise preload in bolted joints, preventing the bolt from loosening due to vibration, thermal expansion, or stress relaxation.
Automotive Industry: Used in clutch and brake mechanisms, engine valve systems, and suspension components to absorb shock and maintain tension.
Industrial Machinery: Employed in presses, pumps, and gearboxes for load balancing, vibration isolation, and shock absorption.
Power Generation & Valves: Used in safety valves, pressure regulators, and switches for reliable operation under high-pressure conditions.
Aerospace & Defense: Found in aircraft control systems, landing gear components, and safety systems where reliability and space efficiency are crucial.