Special Solutions
Self-locking
This feature allows the ring to function properly at speeds that exceed the recommended rotational capacity. The self-locking option can be incorporated for both external and internal rings. The self-locking feature utilizes a small tab on the inside turn "locking" into a slot on the outside turn. Self-locking allows the ring to operate at high speeds, withstand vibration, function under rapid acceleration and absorb a degree of impact loading.
As seen below, the tab faces opposite directions for external and internal rings.
Balanced
Smalley?s balanced feature statically balances the retaining ring. A series of slots, opposite the gap end, account for the missing material in the gap. This characteristic is very useful when the balance of the assembly is critical and it is necessary to reduce eccentric loading.
Lefthand Wound
Smalley Retaining rings are wound standard in a clockwise direction. In special applications it is sometimes favorable to have the retaining ring reverse, left hand, wound.