What is an internal retaining ring?
Internal retaining rings are thin spring-steel rings that compress into a housing or bore and snap into a machined groove. Once seated, the ring forms a shoulder that holds bearings, washers, or spacers inside the bore.
How do I size an internal snap ring?
- Order by the bore diameter shown on your print or measured in the field.
- Confirm the bore’s groove width and depth match the ring specification before installation.
- Check edge margins and corner radii so the ring can seat fully in the groove.
What size internal snap ring for a 1 in bore?
Select a 1 in internal ring and verify your bore groove matches the ring’s required width, depth, and margins. If you are cutting the groove, match the published ring groove dimensions.
Bowed vs beveled vs flat rings
- Bowed: adds light spring preload to take up end play and reduce rattle.
- Beveled: wedges for a firmer preload where a rigid stop is needed.
- Flat: standard stop when the stack is already tight.
Materials and finishes
- Carbon spring steel: strong and economical for general service.
- Stainless 302: broad corrosion resistance with good spring properties.
- Stainless 316: added resistance for chloride or marine exposure.
- Typical finishes: oil, phosphate, black oxide, passivation on stainless.
How to install an internal retaining ring
- Measure bore and verify groove dimensions meet the ring spec. Deburr edges.
- Use internal snap ring pliers. Compress only as much as needed.
- Seat the ring fully into the groove and confirm engagement 360 degrees.
- Replace rings that show distortion or loss of spring after removal.
Typical applications
- Retaining bearings, bushings, and seals inside housings
- Gearboxes, small mechanisms, appliances, tools
- Automotive, machinery, and MRO assemblies
Troubleshooting and quick tips
- Ring won’t seat: groove too shallow or burred. Recheck width and depth, clean edges.
- End play remains: confirm stack dimensions or use a bowed or beveled ring.
- Corrosion observed: upgrade to 302 or 316 stainless or use a protective finish.
- Ring distortion on install: compress less and use the correct pliers tips.
Why buy internal retaining rings from AlbanyCountyFasteners.com
- Wide size range in carbon steel, 302, and 316 stainless
- Flat, bowed, and beveled options to match your assembly
- Contractor-friendly packs and fast shipping
- USA-based support for sizing, materials, and installation
FAQs
Get quick answers on sizing, materials, and installation for internal snap rings.
How do I pick the right size?
Match the ring to the bore’s nominal diameter, then confirm groove width, depth, and edge margins meet the ring spec.
Do I need special tools to install?
Yes. Use internal snap ring pliers and compress only as much as needed so the ring snaps into the groove without overstressing.
When should I choose bowed or beveled rings?
Pick bowed to add spring preload and reduce rattle. Pick beveled when you need a firmer preload and a rigid stop.
Can internal rings be reused?
They can be removed, but repeated compression can reduce spring force. Replace any ring that is distorted or no longer seats securely.
Which stainless grade should I use?
Use 302 for general corrosion resistance. Use 316 for harsher chloride or marine environments.