Applications
Where this spring style fits
Review best-fit uses, assembly constraints and situations where another spring style may be a better choice.
View application guidance →Wave Springs
Custom Wave Expanders / Marcel Expanders
Circular wave-formed expanders for radial loading, specified by installed diameter, cavity geometry and the required outward force.
- Specification
- Drawing and working requirement
- Dimensions
- Confirmed for the assembly
- Performance
- Specified at working positions
- Quotation
- Submit dimensions and quantity
About Custom Wave Expanders / Marcel Expanders
A Marcel expander forms a wave element into a circular arrangement to apply radial outward pressure. Its load direction distinguishes it from an axial compression wave spring. The enquiry should identify the installed diameter, the radial movement and the component being supported or energized. Do not use an axial working-height specification as a substitute for the radial requirement.
Key Design Characteristics
- Show the installed circle and the direction of radial loading.
- Dimension the supporting cavity and adjacent contact surfaces.
- Identify the required radial deflection and any end gap or overlap.
Choosing Between Related Designs
Use an axial wave-spring specification when loading acts along the shaft axis. A compression garter spring is another circular outward-loading design, but its coil construction and connection need a separate review.
Specification and Inspection Review
Agree whether radial force is measured as a total or through a defined fixture. Include installed diameter, support conditions and any friction or contact restrictions in the acceptance method.
Product Specification
What to Define for This Spring
Use these product-specific inputs to describe your requirement. Final dimensions, material and performance are confirmed against the drawing and operating conditions.
| Specification item | What to define |
|---|---|
| Installed diameter | Free and installed diameter, with the relevant tolerance. |
| Radial cavity | Groove or support envelope and contact layout. |
| Wave and section | Wave geometry, section width and thickness. |
| Radial load | Outward force requirement and the measurement basis. |
| End and environment | End arrangement, material and exposure conditions. |
Next Design Decisions
Next Steps for Your Spring Design
Once the spring style is selected, confirm how it works in the assembly, which material suits the environment, how it will be manufactured and which dimensions and performance points should be controlled on the drawing.
Materials
Choose the material for the environment
Review spring material and finish with the contact medium, corrosion conditions and required radial movement.
Compare spring materials →Manufacturing
Plan prototype and production
Review forming, heat treatment, secondary operations, inspection and the path from first samples to repeat production.
View manufacturing capabilities →Engineering Data
Use the engineering guide for design support
Use the engineering library to review materials, sizing considerations and applicable standards for the custom design.
Open Spring Engineering Guide →Material Direction
Common Material Families to Review
The links below are selection guides, not a claim that every grade is suitable for every size or load.
Compare Designs
Related Spring Products
Use these alternatives when the available space, connection style, travel or force direction changes.
Garter & Canted Coil Springs
Compression Garter Springs
Circular compression garter springs for outward radial loading, specified by free and installed ring geometry and the required force basis.
Wave Springs
Linear Wave Springs
Straight wave-formed spring lengths for linear cavities, specified by support layout, active length and load at installed deflection.
Wave Springs
Single-Turn Overlap Wave Springs
Single-turn axial wave springs with overlapping ends, defined by working height, end freedom and radial installation clearance.
Product Questions
Wave Expanders / Marcel Expanders FAQ
Is a Marcel expander an axial wave washer?
No. The circular expander described here is intended for radial outward loading. Identify the force direction on the assembly drawing.
What is needed to describe radial force?
Provide installed diameter, working movement and the test or measurement arrangement. A force number without that basis is incomplete.
RFQ
Send the Working Requirement
A drawing is ideal. If you do not have one yet, provide the dimensions, load or torque, travel, environment and expected quantity that matter in the assembly.
CustomSprings Engineering Catalog
Request This Spring
Send your dimensions, quantity and drawing for engineering review.