Spring types
Disc springs, elastic washers, and wave springs
A washer shape can provide preload, limit play, or act as an axial spring; similar-looking parts can serve different functions.
Different families and functions
Conical disc springs, curved, wave, or finger washers, and wave springs are not interchangeable by appearance. A clamping washer may limit axial play or maintain a friction joint; other forms provide elastic force in a short space.
Installation and response
Support, orientation, stack count, contact, and friction affect the assembly's force-travel curve. Specify installed height, required deflection or load, and available space. Do not apply a cylindrical helical-spring formula or assume a stack is approved without analysis.