Retaining Rings

Retaining rings snap into a machined groove on a shaft or in a bore, forming a removable shoulder that holds bearings, gears, and components in place axially. A compact, serviceable alternative to a machined shoulder or threaded retainer, they're used throughout machinery and assemblies. We stock internal and external retaining rings in spring steel and stainless.

Internal vs. External

External rings snap into a groove on a shaft, gripping inward to retain parts on the shaft. Internal rings snap into a groove in a bore or housing, springing outward to retain parts inside. E-clips push onto a shaft groove from the side without pliers. Choose based on whether you're retaining on a shaft (external) or in a bore (internal).

Groove Requirements

Retaining rings require a correctly machined groove at the specified diameter and width for the ring size. The ring is sized by the shaft or bore diameter it fits. Proper groove dimensions determine thrust capacity — follow the ring's groove spec for a secure, load-bearing installation.

Materials

Spring steel (carbon): heat-treated and phosphate-finished, the standard. Stainless: corrosion resistance for wet and outdoor environments while keeping spring force. Match to the environment.

Selecting the Right Retaining Ring

Choose internal or external for your application, match the ring to the shaft or bore diameter, and machine the groove to spec. Use proper retaining-ring pliers, orient the sharp edge against the thrust load, and select stainless for corrosion. Confirm the ring's load rating suits your application.

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