---
title: "Introducing Smalley’s Self-Locking Spirolox Retaining Rings: Precision and Reliability for High-Speed Applications | TFC Europe"
description: "Introducing Smalley’s Self-Locking Spirolox Retaining Rings: Precision and Reliability for High-Speed Applications - ~How unique self-locking features enhance performance in aerospace, automotive, and other demanding industries~ Our familiar and popular Smalley Spirolox"
---

[Blog Listing AFC Europe ](https://blog.afceur.com/blog-listing-afc-europe)

# [Introducing Smalley’s Self-Locking Spirolox Retaining Rings: Precision and Reliability for High-Speed Applications | TFC Europe](https://blog.afceur.com/blog-listing-afc-europe/smalley-self-locking-rings-product-spotlight)

 Written by [Simon Ward](https://blog.afceur.com/blog-listing-afc-europe/author/simon-ward) | Jul 10, 2018 2:22:50 PM

## ~How unique self-locking features enhance performance in aerospace, automotive, and other demanding industries~

**Our familiar and popular **[Smalley Spirolox Retaining Rings](https://tfc.eu.com/technical/smalley-wave-springs-retaining/)** can also be manufactured with a unique self-locking feature that makes them ideal for applications where high rotational speeds are involved or, where the effects of vibration, rapid acceleration or impact loading is problematic. Self-locking rings provide a mechanical interference via a small tab on the ring that locks into a corresponding slot in the opposite turn and prevents the ring from expanding out of the groove as a result of centrifugal forces at high rotational speeds.**

The location of the locking mechanism can be dictated by the application requirements. Internal and external locks are easier to install (especially when small diameters or heavy cross-section material is involved) and allow for a simple visual confirmation of proper installation.

Where tamper-proof applications are involved ‘centreline’ locks are typically used and once the ring is removed from an application, the tab is broken and a new ring must be installed. This type of locking feature is also less likely to interfere with mating components within the assembly.

Aerospace and Automotive industries often use self-locking rings because the rotational capacity typically meets or exceeds the application requirements and can be found in transmission and clutch assemblies.

[View full post](https://blog.afceur.com/blog-listing-afc-europe/smalley-self-locking-rings-product-spotlight)

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