Official Answer
Answer
A 'gap' type spring has ends that do not touch, allowing the spring to expand radially without interference. Its load capacity is purely a function of the wave geometry. An 'overlap' type has ends that slide over each other. During compression, the overlapping ends provide a more continuous 360-degree contact surface, which can lead to a slight increase in 'apparent' stiffness due to friction between the ends. However, the overlap design is primarily used to prevent tangential interference (clashing) in tight radial spaces. Theoretically, the load $P = _x000c_rac{k imes \delta}{Z}$ remains the same, but the overlap version is more robust against radial misalignment in high-vibration environments where a gap spring might shift and snag.
