sprungs
Sprungs are a type of fastener used to hold components together, often in mechanical assemblies. They are typically made of spring steel and are designed to be compressed or expanded to fit into a groove, hole, or around a shaft. Once in place, their inherent spring tension creates a secure hold. There are several common types of sprungs, including retaining rings and circlips. Retaining rings are often used to prevent axial movement of shafts or in boreholes, acting as shoulders to keep parts in position. Circlips are a specific type of retaining ring that are L-shaped and are inserted into grooves. The design of a sprung allows it to deform elastically when installed and then return to its original shape, providing a constant retaining force. They are widely used in automotive, industrial machinery, and consumer electronics due to their cost-effectiveness and reliability. Installation typically involves specialized tools like pliers that expand or compress the sprung for insertion or removal. The material choice for sprungs is important, as it needs to withstand the stresses of expansion and contraction over time without permanent deformation.