Quick answer
Working height is the installed or operating height of the spring after compression. The same spring produces different load at different compressed heights, so a quotation based only on OD, ID and thickness can miss the actual performance requirement.
Use free height L0 and working height L1 to calculate deflection s. The spring load should then be checked at that deflection, especially when the spring is part of a stack or preload system.
Why thickness is not enough
Thickness affects stiffness, but it does not tell where the spring will work after assembly. Two springs with similar thickness can produce different load if free height, cone geometry or working height differs.
Too little deflection may not provide enough preload. Too much deflection may increase stress, fatigue risk, stress relaxation and sensitivity to assembly tolerance.
How to prepare RFQ data
For a clean review, provide free height, target working height, load target, stack method, material, temperature, media and available installation space. For stacked springs, separate individual spring deflection from total stack height.
This lets FeTech check whether a standard DIN 2093 part is close enough or whether custom geometry should be reviewed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is disc spring working height?
It is the installed or operating height of the spring after compression, not the free height before loading.
How is disc spring deflection calculated?
Deflection s equals free height L0 minus working height L1. For stacks, check both individual spring deflection and total stack height.
Why is thickness alone not enough?
Thickness does not define the actual working point. Load depends on deflection, geometry, material and stack arrangement.
Need FeTech to review your disc spring application?
Send the drawing, stack envelope, load target, temperature, media and quantity. Our team can check material direction, stack logic and quotation readiness.
- DIN 2093 replacement or custom geometry
- Valve, flange, actuator and severe-service stacks
- Material review for stainless, Inconel, Hastelloy, titanium or heat-resistant steel
Final geometry, fatigue life, K4 source, friction and support-face conditions still require engineering confirmation.