What is a coil spring?
A coil spring is a spring formed by winding round wire or flat strip steel into a spiral shape. Coil springs are used when controlled force, rotational movement, axial displacement, or a return function is required within a mechanism. The collective category of coil springs includes the following product types:
- Compression spring: absorbs axial compressive loads and provides a controlled return force
- Extension spring: works under axial tensile load and returns to its original length
- Torsion spring: delivers torque when the legs are rotated
- Clock spring (flat spiral spring): provides winding and unwinding motion in flat mechanisms
- Conical spring: offers progressive force characteristics with a compact installation height
Compression springs in design and installation scenarios
A compression spring is a coil spring that is loaded by axial compression. When compressed, the spring generates a stable counterforce that ensures components return to their starting position in a controlled manner. The performance of a compression spring is determined by factors such as wire diameter, coil diameter, number of active coils, and the spring rate.
A frequently asked question is: What does a compression spring do?
A compression spring provides support, positioning, motion buffering, and accurate return movement.
Compression springs are commonly manufactured from spring steel, but in environments involving moisture, cleaning processes, or corrosion, stainless steel compression springs are used. When purchasing or specifying a compression spring, it is essential to clearly define the force range, stroke length, and installation height in advance.
Extension springs for retraction mechanisms and positioning
An extension spring works opposite to a compression spring: it elongates under load and ensures that components are pulled back in a controlled manner. The properties of an extension spring are determined by factors such as initial tension, total extension, and the design of the end hooks or loops.
The question Which extension spring do I need? depends on the desired force characteristic, the available installation space, the choice between carbon steel or stainless steel springs, and the number of cycles the extension spring must perform without fatigue.
When replacing an extension spring, it is important to maintain the same geometry and force characteristics to ensure the mechanism continues to function correctly.
Torsion springs as a solution for rotation and return motion
A torsion spring is a coil spring that operates based on rotational movement. The legs of the torsion spring are twisted through an angle, generating torque. This makes torsion springs suitable for functions such as automatic return, hinge support, and positioning.
A recurring technical question is: What is a torsion spring?
A torsion spring is a spring that converts angular displacement into a precise and controlled torque.
Its performance is determined by the geometry and the torsion spring rate, which defines how much torque is generated per degree of angular displacement. When purchasing or specifying a torsion spring, factors such as direction of rotation, maximum angular deflection, and leg configuration must be considered.
Clock springs for winding and unwinding systems
A clock spring is a flat spiral spring made from strip steel and is used in mechanisms that require a winding and unwinding motion. Clock springs are commonly applied in measuring instruments, adjustment mechanisms, and return systems.
The difference between a flat spiral spring and a torsion spring is essential in design: a clock spring operates using flat strip steel wound into a flat coil, while a torsion spring is made from round wire with legs rotating around an axis.
When the force characteristics of a clock spring decrease or visible deformation occurs, replacing the clock spring is necessary to maintain system accuracy.
Conical springs for stable and space-saving installation
A conical spring is a coil spring with a tapered shape. Due to the varying coil diameter, the coils can partially nest into each other, resulting in a more compact design than a cylindrical compression spring. Conical springs are used in mechanisms where stability, long stroke length, and limited installation height must be combined.
Which coil spring do you need?
When selecting the right coil spring, it is important to consider the type of load, the required force or torque characteristics, and the available installation space. Many engineers ask about the difference between a compression spring and an extension spring. This difference lies in the direction of loading: a compression spring works under shortening, while an extension spring works under elongation.
When standard dimensions are insufficient, it may be more efficient to design a custom coil spring rather than purchasing a generic off-the-shelf spring. Custom design helps prevent unwanted deformation or premature wear within the system.
Ordering and purchasing coil springs from De Spiraal
Whether you need to purchase a compression spring, order an extension spring, or have a torsion spring, clock spring, or conical spring manufactured, De Spiraal supports the entire process from design to delivery.
When ordering coil springs, you receive expert advice on geometry, material selection, spring rate, and installation space. Thanks to modern production technology and precise quality control, we deliver coil springs that meet the highest technical requirements.
Would you like to order a coil spring, purchase coil springs, or receive direct technical advice?
Call us: +31 (0)74 – 291 45 08
Email: info@despiraal.nl
