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 Linear Wave Springs
Straight wave-formed spring lengths for linear cavities, specified by support layout, active length and load at installed deflection.
- Specification
- Drawing and working requirement
- Dimensions
- Confirmed for the assembly
- Performance
- Specified at working positions
- Quotation
- Submit dimensions and quantity
About Custom Linear Wave Springs
Linear wave springs use a wave-formed length rather than a circular multi-turn body. Laid in a straight cavity, the formed waves provide elastic loading along the supported length. Describe where the spring is supported and where the moving component makes contact. Overall length alone is insufficient because the active support and contact arrangement define how the spring works in the assembly.
Key Design Characteristics
- Identify supported regions and all functional contact points.
- Show wave pitch and amplitude where the geometry is already defined.
- State whether the load applies to the full strip or a local contact region.
Choosing Between Related Designs
This page covers a straight wave-formed element. A Marcel expander is formed into a circular arrangement for radial loading; a circular axial wave spring needs a bore-and-shaft specification instead.
Specification and Inspection Review
Define the support fixture and load location used for inspection. If the spring is cut to length, identify the required end treatment and how the finished active section is measured.
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 |
|---|---|
| Length and section | Overall length, width, thickness and active length. |
| Wave form | Wave spacing, amplitude and end geometry. |
| Cavity and support | Groove dimensions, support locations and contact layout. |
| Working load | Load at stated deflection with test-fixture details. |
| Environment | Material condition, temperature and cyclic movement. |
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 strip or flat-wire grade with the wave form, contact surfaces and service environment.
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.
Wave Springs
Wave Expanders / Marcel Expanders
Circular wave-formed expanders for radial loading, specified by installed diameter, cavity geometry and the required outward force.
Wave Springs
Crest-to-Crest Wave Springs
Multi-turn axial wave springs specified by working height, required load, bore clearance and shaft clearance.
Flat Springs & Stampings
Cantilever Flat Springs
Flat spring elements fixed at one end, specified by active length, support details and force at the moving contact.
Product Questions
Linear Wave Springs FAQ
Is a linear wave spring a circular wave spring opened out?
Specify it as a straight supported spring element. Its active length, wave form and contact layout must suit the intended cavity.
How should load be specified?
Give deflection, support positions and the load-contact arrangement. State whether the requirement is a total force or a force at defined contact points.
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.