Official Answer
Answer
Self-locking rings feature a small 'tab' on one turn and a 'slot' on the other. During installation, the ring is expanded or compressed like a standard ring, but once it seats in the groove, the installer must ensure the tab 'clicks' into the slot. This often requires a final axial 'set' with a tool. Once locked, the ring cannot expand radially, making it ideal for high-RPM applications. However, this means the ring is much harder to remove; usually, the locking tab must be manually disengaged with a specialized tool. In automated assembly, sensors must verify the 'lock' state by measuring the final $OD/ID$ of the ring.
