Official Answer
Answer
Dishing occurs when an axial load $P$ causes the ring to deflect into a conical shape. This happens because the load is typically applied at a point away from the groove support, creating a bending moment $M = P · e$, where $e$ is the eccentricity. The ring's resistance to dishing is a function of its radial wall $b$ and thickness $t$. The maximum deflection before the ring 'walks' out of the groove is critical. Dishing is aggravated by large radii on the retained part. To minimize dishing, designers should ensure the retained part has a square corner or use a backing washer to distribute the load evenly across the ring surface.
