Helical springs, also known as coil springs or simply springs, are a mechanical device made of wire coiled into a spiral or helix shape. These springs are designed to store and release mechanical energy when subjected to forces like compression or tension. The primary function of helical springs is to provide resistance against deformation or displacement.
Helical springs have a wide range of applications across various industries due to their ability to absorb and release energy efficiently.
Some key points about helical springs include:
Shape: They are typically made in a cylindrical or conical shape, with the wire wound around a central axis.
Materials:They can be constructed from a variety of materials, including steel, stainless steel, bronze, and even plastics, depending on the application’s requirements.
Compression Springs: These springs are designed to resist compression forces, meaning they compress when a load is applied and return to their original shape when the load is removed. They are commonly found in automotive suspensions and industrial machinery.
Extension Springs: Extension springs, as the name suggests, extend when subjected to tensile forces and retract when the force is released. They are often used in garage doors and various mechanical assemblies.
Torsion Springs: Torsion springs operate by twisting along their axis when torque is applied. They are used in applications like door hinges, clothespins, and various types of mechanical levers.
Applications: They are used in a wide range of applications, including automotive suspension systems, industrial machinery, mattresses, toys, firearms, electrical switches, medical devices, aerospace equipment, and more.
Customization: The design and specifications of helical springs can be customized to meet specific requirements, such as load capacity, compression or extension rates, and size.
Energy Storage: Helical springs can store energy when compressed and release it when allowed to expand, making them useful in various energy storage applications.
These versatile mechanical components are fundamental to many mechanical systems, providing support, shock absorption, tension, or torsional resistance, depending on their design and purpose.
