What is the load/deflection relationship of a Belleville disc spring?

Like all springs, a Belleville disc spring will deflect in response to a load. Belleville disc springs exhibit low deflections relative to high loads. The relationship between the load and deflection is non-linear, particularly as load increases. This quality makes Belleville disc springs well-suited to areas with constant thrust that must stand up to heavy wear.

The load/deflection relationship can be further altered by using more than one Belleville disc spring in series or in parallel.