Why Choose Superior Washer & Gasket Corp.?
Superior Washer & Gasket Corp. can reliably serve as your single source for three wave washers. As a U.S.-based manufacturer with extensive production capabilities, we deliver the highest level of quality assurance. All of our products, from standard washers to special washers, are made in compliance with our ISO 9001:2015 quality management system. We are dedicated to providing our customers with a fast and easy purchasing experience, backed by an unparalleled commitment to quality and attention to detail when filling every order.
Our Capabilities And Services
Our robust capabilities and services enable us to quickly and reliably deliver spring washers that meet our customers' exact needs. We maintain a comprehensive inventory of washers and custom shims at our two U.S.-based facilities. With over 40,000 square feet of raw material—including stainless steel and high carbon steel—more than 100 power presses, and a staff of skilled machinists, we have the superior ability to deliver exactly what our customers require. We also provide complete custom manufacturing services for any non-standard or on-demand requests.
Three Wave Washer FAQs
What are three wave washers?
Three wave washers, also called wave spring washers or tri-wave washers, are formed spring washers with three evenly spaced waves distributed around their circumference. This multi-wave design delivers a higher and more uniform spring force than single-wave curved washers, making them the preferred choice for bearing retention, axial preload, and vibration dampening in precision mechanical assemblies. Superior Washer manufactures 255 three-wave washer configurations in spring steel and stainless steel, with ODs ranging from 0.166" to 2.358".
What is the advantage of three waves over a single curve?
A single-wave curved washer generates spring force at one contact point per side, which can lead to uneven load distribution under the fastener. Three wave washers generate force at three evenly spaced contact points per side, distributing the load symmetrically and producing a more consistent and repeatable spring rate. This makes three-wave washers superior for precision bearing preload applications where uniform axial force is critical.
What is "Free H" on a three wave washer?
Free H is the free height of the wave washer in its unloaded state, measured as the overall axial height from the lowest trough to the highest crest. It represents the total available deflection before the washer is fully compressed flat. Free H is a key specification for calculating the spring force delivered at a given deflection, and is listed for every configuration in the catalog.
How do three wave washers compare to Belleville washers?
Belleville washers deliver very high spring force in a very short deflection range and are best suited for high-load preload and locking applications. Three wave washers deliver moderate, uniform spring force over a longer deflection range and are better suited for bearing preload, end play control, and vibration dampening where consistent force over the full working deflection matters more than peak load capacity.
What applications use three wave washers?
Three wave washers are widely used in bearing retention and preload, electric motor end play control, gear and shaft assemblies, actuator mechanisms, precision instrument assemblies, and any application requiring consistent axial spring force in a thin, compact profile. They are also used in vibration-dampening mounts and as compliant elements between assembled components that must maintain a defined clamping load while accommodating dimensional variation.
What materials are your three wave washers available in?
Three wave washers are available in spring steel and stainless steel.
Are your three wave washers made in the USA?
Yes. All three wave spring washers are manufactured in the United States at our facilities in Hauppauge, NY (CAGE Code: 1L160) and Rock Hill, SC (CAGE Code: 4WUG7) under our ISO 9001:2015 certified Quality Management System. Material certifications are available upon request.
