Wavey Washers – Built for the Trade
Wavey washers aren’t flashy. But they’re absolutely vital when it comes to managing axial load, vibration, and pre-tension. Whether it’s taking up clearance or providing spring pressure, they keep assemblies tight and systems quiet.
They’re often used in electric motors, gear assemblies, or anywhere a little flex and load absorption goes a long way. The trick? Knowing the right spec. Thickness, diameter, number of waves — it all matters.
At Godiva Bearings, we supply wavey washers built for real-world trade use. No end-user fluff, no online gimmicks. Just stock, support, and sleeves-up service.
What Are Wavey Washers?
Wavey washers (also called wave spring washers) are thin metal discs with a wavy or corrugated profile. This shape gives them the ability to compress under axial load, much like a spring.
Typical applications include:
- Electric motor assemblies
- Gearboxes and shaft systems
- Bearing pre-load set-ups
- Vibration dampening
They’re designed to absorb shock, maintain tension, and reduce movement where space is limited.
What Are They Made Of?
Material matters in spring washers. Godiva stocks wavey washers in:
- Carbon steel – For general industrial use with reliable spring action.
- Stainless steel – For corrosion resistance in wet or outdoor environments.
- Beryllium copper (special order) – Excellent for conductivity and non-magnetic applications.
We also offer options with various finishes and coatings depending on environment and load needs.
Where Are Wavey Washers Used?
You’ll find them in a wide range of industries and assemblies where space is tight and axial load needs to be managed. Common uses include:
- Automotive: Behind bearings, within gear shifters, clutches, and steering assemblies to prevent rattle and backlash.
- Electric Motors: Maintains shaft alignment and tension where bearing preload is critical.
- Gearboxes: Helps manage endplay in compact assemblies under variable torque.
- Pumps & Compressors: Supports seal stability and reduces vibration-related wear.
- Medical Equipment: Provides gentle, controlled tension in precision devices.
- Consumer Electronics: Used in small motorised mechanisms like printers and fans.
- Aerospace & Defence: Lightweight load management where every gram counts.
- Instrumentation: Prevents component movement without taking up space in compact builds.
Any time there’s axial movement, vibration, or thermal expansion to account for, wavey washers offer a smart, space-saving solution.
What Do Wavey Washers Help Prevent?
Fitted correctly, they prevent:
- Axial play in assemblies
- Excessive vibration or noise
- Fatigue failure from inconsistent loads
- Bearing misalignment or chatter
- Component loosening under pressure
Simple part. Serious job.
Installation, Use and Maintenance Tips
They’re easy to fit but easy to misuse too:
- Always match the wave washer to shaft size and axial load.
- Don’t flatten them during fitting – they’re meant to compress, not deform.
- Use clean, corrosion-free mating surfaces.
- Avoid re-using old washers – spring performance degrades with time.
Store flat and dry to avoid warping or contamination.
Conclusion: Get Spring-Ready with Wavey Washers
Wavey washers aren’t just filler parts — they’re functional components keeping gearboxes, motors, and assemblies under control.
Godiva Bearings supplies wavey washers with the right specs, finishes, and stock for serious trade applications. Need same-day dispatch? We’re on it. Questions about load or fit? Our team knows what to ask.
