Common Applications of Canted Coil Springs in Aerospace, Medical, and Semiconductor Equipment

Canted coil springs are widely used in aerospace, medical, and semiconductor equipment due to their stable preload, high cycle life, and compact design. This article explains common applications, performance advantages, material options, and provides a detailed comparison with traditional springs.

canted coil spring - handa spring
canted coil spring – handa spring

As modern industries continue to push the limits of precision, reliability, and miniaturization, traditional spring solutions are often no longer sufficient. This is especially true in aerospace, medical devices, and semiconductor equipment, where failure is not an option and tolerances are extremely tight.

Kantige Schraubenfedern—also known as slanted coil springs or constant force springs—have become a preferred solution in these high-performance sectors. Unlike conventional compression or extension springs, canted coil springs provide stable preload force, excellent fatigue resistance, and superior performance in limited spaces.

This article explores the most common applications of canted coil springs across three critical industries, explaining why they are chosen, how they perform, and what design engineers should consider.


What Is a Canted Coil Spring?

A Schrägzugfeder is formed by a series of coils angled relative to the spring axis. This geometry allows the spring to deflect smoothly while maintaining nearly constant force over a wide working range.

Slant coil springs with high-performance sealing-Handaspring

Key Characteristics

  • Consistent radial or axial preload
  • Minimal force loss over time
  • High resistance to vibration and shock
  • Exceptional cycle life (often >1 million cycles)
  • Compact and low-profile design

These features make canted coil springs particularly suitable for critical assemblies and high-reliability systems.


Why Kantige Spiralfedern Are Ideal for High-End Industries

Before diving into industry-specific applications, it’s important to understand why canted coil springs outperform traditional spring types in demanding environments.

Performance Advantages Overview

Performance FactorKantige SpiralfedernCompression Springs
Preload at Zero DeflectionYesNo
Force StabilityExcellentModerate
Ermüdung LebenVery HighMedium–High
Vibration ResistanceExcellentLimited
Weltraum-EffizienzHighModerate
Precision ControlExcellentLimited

Applications in Aerospace Equipment

The aerospace industry demands absolute reliability under extreme conditions, including temperature variation, vibration, pressure changes, and long service life.

1. Electrical Connectors and Contacts

Canted coil springs are widely used in aerospace-grade electrical connectors to maintain consistent contact force.

Why they are used:

  • Stable preload ensures uninterrupted signal transmission
  • Compensates for thermal expansion and contraction
  • Maintains contact force despite vibration and shock

Typical components:

  • Avionics connectors
  • Satellite communication interfaces
  • Radar systems

2. Retention and Latching Mechanisms

Canted coil springs function as retaining elements in aerospace assemblies, often replacing traditional retaining rings.

Vorteile:

  • Provides controlled retention force
  • Allows repeated assembly and disassembly
  • Reduces wear on mating components

3. EMI/RFI Shielding Systems

Electromagnetic interference is a major concern in aircraft and spacecraft systems.

Canted coil springs used in EMI shielding:

  • Provide continuous electrical contact
  • Maintain shielding effectiveness under vibration
  • Adapt to surface irregularities

Applications in Medical Devices

Medical equipment requires precision, cleanliness, repeatability, and biocompatibility. Canted coil springs meet these requirements exceptionally well.

1. Implantable and Diagnostic Devices

In devices such as implantable sensors and diagnostic tools, space is extremely limited.

Vorteile:

  • Compact size with predictable force
  • Long service life without recalibration
  • Smooth, non-abrupt force characteristics

2. Surgical Instruments and Handheld Devices

Canted coil springs are used in:

  • Latching systems
  • Push-button mechanisms
  • Tool alignment and positioning

Why medical designers prefer them:

  • Consistent tactile feedback
  • Minimal wear particles
  • Can be manufactured from medical-grade stainless steel

3. Medical Electrical Connectors

In patient monitoring and imaging systems, reliable electrical contact is essential.

Key advantages:

  • Maintains contact force through repeated connections
  • Resistant to sterilization cycles
  • Stable performance under micro-movement

Applications in Semiconductor Equipment

Semiconductor manufacturing demands extreme precision, cleanliness, and process stability. Even microscopic inconsistencies can lead to yield loss.

1. Wafer Handling and Alignment Systems

Canted coil springs are used to apply controlled force during wafer positioning.

Why they are critical:

  • Precise force control prevents wafer damage
  • Smooth deflection avoids particle generation
  • Maintains alignment accuracy

2. Vacuum and Process Chambers

Semiconductor tools often operate in vacuum or controlled atmospheres.

Canted coil spring advantages:

  • Reliable preload under vacuum conditions
  • Compatible with high-temperature processes
  • Minimal outgassing with proper material selection

3. RF and EMI Shielding in Semiconductor Tools

High-frequency processes require robust EMI shielding.

Canted coil springs provide:

  • Continuous conductive paths
  • Long-term shielding effectiveness
  • Resistance to thermal cycling

Material Options for Industry-Specific Needs

Material selection is critical for performance and compliance.

Material TypeKey PropertiesTypical Industry Use
Stainless Steel 316Corrosion resistant, biocompatibleMedical, Aerospace
Stainless Steel 302/304High strength, good fatigue lifeGeneral Industrial
Beryllium-KupferExcellent conductivityEMI-Abschirmung
Nickel-Basis-LegierungenHigh-temperature resistanceHalbleiter

Force–Deflection Behavior (Conceptual Chart)

Force (N)
│
│        ────────────────  Canted Coil Spring
│       /
│      /
│     /   Compression Spring
│    /
│___/________________________ Deflection

Key takeaway:
Canted coil springs provide a more stable force over deflection, which is essential for precision equipment.


Product Description (SEO Optimized)

Precision Canted Coil Spring for Aerospace, Medical & Semiconductor Applications

Our precision-engineered canted coil springs are designed to deliver consistent preload force, exceptional fatigue life, and reliable performance in the most demanding environments. Manufactured from high-quality stainless steel and specialty alloys, these springs are ideal for aerospace connectors, medical devices, and semiconductor manufacturing equipment.

The unique angled coil design ensures stable force output with minimal deflection, making them perfect for applications requiring precise retention, electrical contact, or EMI shielding. Compared to traditional compression springs, canted coil springs offer superior vibration resistance, longer service life, and improved performance in compact assemblies.

Available in custom diameters, wire sizes, and material options, our canted coil springs can be tailored to meet strict industry standards and application-specific requirements.


Schlussfolgerung

Across aerospace, medical, and semiconductor industries, canted coil springs have become a trusted solution for engineers who demand precision, durability, and reliability. Their ability to provide consistent preload, withstand harsh environments, and perform over millions of cycles makes them an essential component in advanced equipment design.

For applications where performance cannot be compromised, canted coil springs offer a clear advantage over conventional spring technologies.

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