Circlips and locking rings
Snap-in strength you can trust. Lesjöfors' circlips and locking rings secure parts where precision is key. Used in gear systems as well as complex machinery, our retaining rings are built for lasting performance and easy installation to keep your assemblies running smoothly.
Technical specifications
- Thickness:
Up to 2 mm
- Materials:
High-grade spring steel, stainless austenitic steel, cold-rolled narrow steel strip, and XK67 high-carbon steel.
- Finishes:
Chromium and nickel plating; yellow chrome (Cr6+-free); galvanized; phosphate-treated; oiled; heat-treated; bright zinc (FZB); PVC-coated.
What are circlips and locking rings?
Circlips, often referred to as snap rings or retaining rings, and sometimes called circlip clips, are semi-flexible metal fasteners that snap into grooves on shafts or inside bores.
As part of the broader family of retaining rings, they act as mechanical stops and, like many locking rings, securely hold components in place, preventing unwanted axial movement during operation.
Product range & stock availability
Stock circlips and locking rings
Here at Lesjöfors, we offer one of the industry’s most comprehensive selections of stock retaining rings and locking rings – available in a wide range of sizes, materials, and load capacities.
With global distribution capabilities and a seamless online ordering system, we ensure fast, efficient access to precision-engineered components wherever you are in the world.
Custom circlips and locking rings
Every application presents its own challenges – our circlips and locking rings are created to meet them. If our standard offerings don’t fit, our engineers create tailored solutions. We specify dimensions, materials, and functional features to suit your unique requirements.
Wherever you operate, we ensure reliable, fast fulfillment. With decades of industry experience, we ensure that every circlip and locking ring is not only functional but purpose-built for lasting performance.
Types of circlips and locking rings
Circlips and locking rings come in several types, each designed for specific uses:
Internal circlip
An internal circlip fits a machined groove inside a bore. It locks bearings, gears, or other parts in place, even during vibration or high-speed rotation.
External circlip
An external circlip snaps around a shaft. It stops components from sliding and keeps assemblies precise and stable, even under heavy loads or rapid movement.
E-clip
Shaped like an ‘E’, this clip slides onto a shaft and grips a groove. It’s ideal for quick assembly where axial installation isn’t possible.
Snap ring
Snap rings come in internal and external designs for secure retention. Many have lugs for easy installation or removal with pliers, making them ideal for repeat servicing.
Spiral ring
A spiral ring is flat wire coiled into multiple turns. It offers a smooth, 360° surface with flexibility, strength, and no gaps like standard circlips.
Self-locking ring
A self-locking ring grips tightly using its own spring tension. It’s ideal for quick-fit applications where speed and simplicity matter.
How do circlips and locking rings work?
Circlips and locking rings fit into a machined groove on a shaft or in a bore. They flex just enough to snap securely into place, stopping components from moving under vibration, impact, or changing loads. This keeps assemblies stable, even in demanding, high-speed conditions. When maintenance is needed, they can be removed quickly and safely with pliers or a dedicated tool.
How are the circlips and locking rings manufactured?
At Lesjöfors, we bring together expertise and innovation. This allows us to create precision-engineered circlips and locking rings. Each one is made to exacting standards for any application.
- Customizable to your needs
- Advanced materials and coatings
- Stringent quality controls
Circlip and locking ring materials
At Lesjöfors, material choice is key to performance and longevity. Spring steel delivers robust strength for demanding applications. Stainless steel options include AISI 302, 316, and 17-7. They offer lasting corrosion resistance in harsh environments.
For electrical-sensitive uses, beryllium copper offers both conductivity and reliable spring tension. Protective finishes, from oil dip to zinc phosphate, extend service life by guarding against wear and oxidation. Every choice ensures your circlips and locking rings stay dependable, year after year.
Trusted in automotive and aerospace systems
Lesjöfors drives innovation in the automotive industry
We work with leading manufacturers to engineer circlips and locking rings. Each one meets the demanding standards of modern automotive systems.
Co‑creating the future of aerospace component solutions by Lesjöfors
At Lesjöfors, we work with aerospace engineers to make high-performance circlips and locking rings. We use advanced materials and tailored designs. Strict quality control ensures dependable performance in the most demanding flight conditions.
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Deep drawn parts produced using progressive or transfer tooling solutions.
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