Retaining Rings

As the expression goes, what's in the name, right? Certainly those who coined the term "retaining ring" couldn't make up their minds. Also known as a circlip, a retaining ring has many other names: C-Clip, snap ring, even Jesus clip. With so many alternatives, identifying one can be confusing. Don't worry, SkyGeek is here to help.

Retaining rings, like many pieces of hardware, are fasteners. Its shape consists of a semi-flexible ring with open ends; these ends are capable of snapping into position. Application of a circlip is suggested if you want rotation to occur but want to suppress lateral movement. Retaining rings are classified into two broad types—internal and external. Internal rings are usually applied to the inside of a tube while external rings are attached on the outside of a shaft.

Selecting the proper retaining ring involves knowing its composition; they are normally made of metal, specifically steel (carbon or corrosion resistant). In addition to material, circlips are often coated with a finish—examples include phosphate, cadmium, and zinc. Moreover, when determining the right retaining ring to use, examine the area of application then refer to a ring's diameter, thickness, application diameter, and groove diameter.

SkyGeek's expanding line of retaining rings consists of those that conform to U.S. military specifications. Browse each ring in a given series to discover the differences and to make the right purchase.

Note: when installing, the smooth surface of the ring should face the part it is being applied to while the rough side should face outward. This is because the rough side may rub against the part and may dislodge during the motion of the surrounding areas.