Training and resources about washers carried by G.L. Huyett.
Typically, Belleville washers can be reused. However, if the disc spring shows any signs of damage or the overall height is not within tolerance, it should be replaced.
Belleville washers, also referred to as disc spring washers or conical washers, offer high load tolerances in limited space applications, often being used in bolted assemblies to maintain load or tension. Their load deflection curve can be linear or non‑linear depending on their height to thickness ratio. Belleville washers can also be stacked to increase load tolerance and deflection.
Belleville washers, sometimes referred to as disc spring washers, can be installed in single, parallel, series, or series/parallel configurations.
Single Belleville washer configurations consist of a singular washer paired with a bolt or machine screw. The washer is positioned with the center protruding away from the work piece and contacting the head of the fastener.
Parallel configurations consist of two or more washers stacked on top of one another in a manner that allows them to have complete surface contact with each other. This configuration increases the load tolerance in multiples of the number of washers added. Two washers stacked doubles the load tolerance, three washers triples it, and so on.
Series configurations consist of two or more washers stacked on top of each other in such a manner that only the ends and the center face come in contact with each other. This configuration increases deflection tolerances in multiples of the number of washers added. Two washers stacked doubles the load tolerance, three washers triples it, and so on.
Series/Parallel configurations consist of stacking three or more washers together in a series and parallel combination. This method increases both load and deflection tolerances incrementally based on the number of washers that are added to or removed from the stack.
As with all springs, Belleville washers can fail if they are exposed to excessive loads or stresses. Belleville washers are capable of supporting very large loads compared to their space requirements, but care should be taken not to exceed their maximum load and stress capacity.
Belleville washers should be used when high compression forces are applied in low clearance or small space applications. Belleville washers are often used to apply pre‑load to a bolt or bearing. They are also used singly or in stacks to reduce vibration and to account for thermal expansion.