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Low Cost Automation Tutorial

#281 Spring Design -9: How to Secure Springs

Category : Automation elements technology
March24, 2017

Fixing both ends of a spring is an important measure for stabilizing behavior. There are well-suited ways of fixing both ends depending on the type of spring, such as helical compression springs and helical extension springs. In this volume, we will introduce how to secure the ends of springs along with the characteristics of each method.

(1) How to secure helical compression springs

In considerations of the degree of freedom of the secured spring, avoiding buckling, and prevention of load-point displacement, the methods shown in [Fig.1] are adopted for securing both ends of helical compression springs. As for the tips, use a Coil Spring Washer (SPGCC, for example) by MISUMI for its ease of production if you use the securing method shown in (b). Otherwise, prepare a guide hole on both ends and place the spring into it.

[Fig.1] Examples of securing helical compression springs. (Source: Design, manufacture & testing methods of springs edited by Japan Society of Spring Engineers (Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun, Ltd.)), [Fig.2] Washer for coil spring

(2) How to secure helical extension springs

Hooks on both ends of helical extension springs are available in various shapes. a) is the most standard shape. See the characteristics of b) and c) in the following table.

Hook shapeCharacteristics
V-hookThis shape is frequently adopted for measuring equipment because it can minimize the allowance (backlash) between the mating side and spring hook area.
Square hookThis shape is adopted only when the mating side is shaped as a flat plate.

[Fig.3] Typical hook shapes (Source: JIS B 2704)

[Photo 1] Helical extension springs and posts on both ends

a) For circular hooks, adopting posts for extension springs by MISUMI (e.g. ASPO, ASPL) makes the adjustment easier. (See [Photo 1].)

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