E-Clips (External Snap Rings) are used primarily for quick axial retention in a shaft groove where radial access is available. This page summarizes where they fit, the industries that rely on them, and the practical points to get right when you specify them — to DIN 6799. Stocked across roughly M1.2 to M24, they cover general to heavy-duty work.
Typical Applications for E-Clips (External Snap Rings)
The most common settings where these are specified:
- Maintenance & repair (MRO): a stocked size for servicing existing plant where the original fastener spec must be matched.
- Fabrication & metalwork: bench and on-site assembly of steel frames, enclosures and weldments.
- Shafts & gearboxes: retaining bearings, gears and pulleys against axial movement.
- Hydraulic & pneumatic: holding pistons and seals in bores.
- Automotive driveline: axial location on rotating shafts.
How to Specify E-Clips (External Snap Rings) for Your Application
- Size: Match the nominal size to the mating thread or hole. This product spans M1.2–M24; check the full table below for the exact dimensions of each size.
- Groove fit: Specify to the shaft or bore groove diameter; the ring must seat fully in the groove to carry the thrust load.
- Environment: For damp, coastal or chemical exposure prefer A4/316 stainless or a suitable coating; indoors, plated steel or A2 is usually sufficient.
- Standard: This product is supplied to DIN 6799. Quoting the standard on your order guarantees interchangeable dimensions between suppliers.
Where E-Clips (External Snap Rings) Are Not the Right Choice
Not for heavy axial thrust beyond the groove rating, and not where the groove cannot be machined to spec.