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#274 Spring Design -2: Types and Characteristics of Springs

Category : Automation elements technology
February 3, 2017

This table summarizes the spring types classified by the shape.

[Table 1] Spring types classified by shape
Types of springs
(Classified by shape)
Overview Drawing No.
a) Coil springs
  • Most popular and common springs.
  • Easy to produce, effective, inexpensive.
  • Provide various functions, including compression, tensile strength, and torsion.
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b) Spiral springs
  • Spiral shaped springs designed to add torque from the spring's elastic deformation.
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c) Disc springs
  • A disk containing a hole in the middle is processed into a conical shape, which is used for areas requiring constant load reaction at low volume.
image
d) Fastener springs
  • Springs in various shapes used for fastening.
  • The examples include spring washers, E-type retaining rings, and spring pins.
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e) Laminated leaf springs
  • Frequently used for suspension of heavy objects (such as vehicles).
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f) Flat springs
  • A flat plate is processed into a shape that will deliver the intended spring functions.
  • The examples include points of contact, clamps, and tightening parts of piping joint.
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g) Torsion bars
  • A twist of the bar is applied for spring action.
  • Used as a stabilizer for automobiles.
  • It is also called torsion bar suspension.
  • Shaped like a bamboo shoot and used for shock mitigation.
image
Types of springs
(Classified by shape)
Overview Drawing No.

Besides shape, springs can be classified by the following categories:

  • Classification by materials (e.g. metal/non-metal)
  • Classification by the direction of forces applied to the spring (e.g. tensile, compression, torsion)
  • Classification by purpose (e.g. load substitution, shock mitigation, vibrational relaxation, force accumulation)
  • Classification by operating environment

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