Official Answer
Answer
Nested wave springs consist of multiple turns coiled in parallel (similar to a multi-leaf spring). During installation, they provide a much higher spring rate $k$ in a very small axial space. The rate is $k = n \cdot k_{single}$, where $n$ is the number of nested turns. Installation requires careful alignment to ensure the waves are perfectly nested; if they are misaligned, the spring will not sit flat and the load will be uneven. They are ideal for high-load, short-deflection applications like heavy-duty clutch packs or pressure relief valves where a single-turn spring would exceed its elastic limit.
