A Complete Guide to Metal Springs
Springs are mechanical devices that support, lift, protect, wind, pull, or push loads. They are usually applied in mechanical assemblies and other constructions to provide torsion, tensile, or compressive force. There are many springs, but your choice depends on the torque needed during application and operational conditions. Some common metal springs include torsion, extension, compression, volute, garter, flat, gas springs, etc. Let’s dive in and learn more about each variant.
Types of metal springs
Compression springs
Compression springs are designed to produce an opposing force if compressed. Adding a load reduces the spaces between the spring’s coils until it achieves the compressed length. These springs are used in manufacturing applications requiring an opposing force between components.
Extension springs
These are designed to create an opposing force when stretched. They are applied in instances requiring an opposing force between two components. They have varying spring ends and are used in applications where failure isn’t a critical issue.
Torsion springs
These are flat or helical strips or coils that resist or apply torque loads. The springs are used as components for motion controls. They come in two types, helical and spiral torsion springs, and are wound in order; however, you can still find them in stock sizes and assortment kits.
Constant force springs
These are also known as clock springs and are tightly wound, resembling a roll of tape. Loads force the spring to contract with a constant force and rebound when they are removed. The springs are usually used when making wind-up toys and other devices.
Belleville springs
These are also known as washers and are similar to a slightly tapered disc. They are used for pre-tensioning purposes with fasteners like bolts. The springs are available in various materials like ZY & ZC plated, 301 stainless steels, etc.
Drawbar springs
These are coil compression springs and incorporate u-shaped wire forms. They are used in extension applications and combine the extension spring’s tension application with the compression spring’s positive stop feature. They are used in applications requiring compression springs’ self-limiting feature and tension-producing springs.
Volute springs
These are designed by wounding flat metal strips to create helical spirals. They are applied in compression applications requiring high spring force repeatability or long fatigue life, i.e., shears or nail clippers. Some of the springs are double-ended, while others are single.
Garter springs
These spring coils are joined at the ends to create circular springs. They provide radial force in applications containing a variable load. They are used in pneumatic, hydraulic, and radial shaft seals.
Flat springs
These are bars of strips of metal created to produce a repeatable counterforce when displaced or compressed and are used for contacting or positioning. They are used in positions requiring repeatable counterforce to control loads of motion through making contact and applying force.
Considerations
You should consider the spring rate during purchase. The rate represents the force per unit length of extension or compression. It is the force that a spring exerts after each incremental length of extension or compression and is usually stated as pounds per inch. The industrial spring manufacturer specializes in crafting high-quality springs tailored to meet the precise needs and specifications of various industrial applications.
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