Garter springs are a specialty helical coil spring connected end to end to provide a clamping force around an object. The circular form allows these helical coil springs to exert radial forces and the spring can work similar to a helical extension or compression spring. The primary use for this type of spring is in oil seals by keeping the elastomer seal tight against a rotating or stationary shaft. Other common uses are as small motor belts, electrical connectors, piston ring expanders and valve stem seal assemblies.
Michigan Spring and Stamping utilizes state of the art CNC coiling and assembly machines to manufacture precision garter springs to exacting specifications.
Material Types
We work regularly with the broadest range of materials, including:
- Carbon-based spring steel (music wire, hard drawn)
- Stainless steel type 302
Wire Diameters
The most common applications fall into the range of .008” to .040” (.2mm to 1.02mm). Available assembled inside diameters (AID) from .340” to 11” (8.6mm to 279mm). Special applications can be considerably larger according to the customer needs.