Snap Rings
A snap ring is a ring
of metal, either round or flat in cross section, which is tempered to have
spring like action. This spring like action holds the snap ring firmly seated
in a groove.
The external types are designed to fit in a groove around
the outside of a shaft or cylinder and may be safety wired. Safety wiring of an
external type snap ring.
The internal types
fit in a groove inside a cylinder and are never safe tied. A special type of
pliers is designed to install each type of snap ring. Snap rings can be reused
as long as they retain their shape and spring-like action.