What causes a spiral retaining ring to 'walk' or rotate within its groove, and how can this be stopped?

'Walking' is usually caused by cyclic radial expansion/contraction or by torque transmitted from the retained part. If the retained part rotates and has high friction against the ring, it can drag the ring with it. In high-RPM applications, this rotation can lead to the ring ends wearing down the groove wall. To stop this, designers should: (1) Increase the ring's radial wall thickness to increase its 'cling' force; (2) Use a self-locking design; or (3) Ensure the mating part is supported by a bearing so it does not transmit torque directly to the retaining ring.