What is a C-Type Retaining Ring? The Small Yet Essential Part in Dowel Pin Assemblies!

In precision structural design, dowel pins (such as locating pins or spring pins) are often used for positioning, limiting movement, or carrying loads. However, in designs that require anti-slip features and allow for repeated assembly and disassembly, retaining rings become an indispensable component.

Today, we’ll introduce one of the most common anti-loosening parts: the C-Type Retaining Ring, a surprisingly useful accessory in dowel pin systems.

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What is a C-Type Retaining Ring?

A C-type retaining ring is a small fastener installed in a groove on a shaft, shaped like an open circular arc. Once the ring is seated on the shaft, it provides an axial stop, preventing parts from sliding along the shaft.

Common applications include:

• Paired with spring pins for stopping and positioning

• Restricting movement of rollers, washers, and similar components

• Ideal for mechanisms that require regular disassembly but must maintain fixed positions

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Examples of Dowel Pin + Retaining Ring Applications

In many automated equipment and industrial machinery designs, these combinations are common:

Dowel Pin Purpose	Corresponding Retaining Ring Function	Example Applications
Spring pin positioning/limiting	Use C-type retaining ring to fix pin position	Transmission shaft stops, preventing pin slippage
Locating pin limiting	Use shaft retaining ring as a stop	Mold jig structures, equipment positioning
Removable dowel pin assemblies	Use retaining ring for easy removal and reassembly	Agricultural machinery, engineering equipment maintenance-friendly designs

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 Advantages of Sheng Fong’s C-Type Retaining Rings

Compliant with international standards such as JIS and DIN, suitable for various industrial mechanisms

• Compliant with international standards such as JIS and DIN, suitable for various industrial mechanisms

• Compatible with multiple dowel pin and shaft designs for flexible use

• Real-time inventory management allows for quick delivery, even for small orders

• Can cross-check part numbers and specifications from McMaster-Carr and MISUMI to prevent matching errors

  
  

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How to Choose a Retaining Ring – 3 Quick Tips

• Choose by placement: If installed on a shaft → choose a shaft retaining ring; if fitted inside a bore → choose a bore retaining ring

• Choose by removal needs: For frequent assembly/disassembly, choose an external-lug style for easier use with circlip pliers

• Match materials: If the dowel pin is stainless steel, use a stainless steel retaining ring to avoid galvanic corrosion from dissimilar metals

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Conclusion – The Hidden Hero of Dowel Pin Systems

Though small in size, the C-type retaining ring is an essential “hidden hero” in dowel pin assemblies. If you often encounter issues with dowel pins slipping out or difficulties in assembly/disassembly, consider using this seemingly unremarkable but highly effective retaining ring.

If you want to learn more about spring pins, stepped pins, or shaft retaining rings (WR), feel free to comment or message us—our Sheng Fong team will help you find the most suitable matching solution!

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For the complete list of specifications and sizes, please refer to: https://lihi3.me/bMUfS