Surprisingly, compression springs are more common than you may think. They are used in a number of devices that are used on a daily basis, including cell phones, electronics, hand tools and combustion engines. Compression springs are even used in ballpoint pens, your front door and are the main working mechanism of mattress box springs.
A compression spring is essentially a mechanical device in the shape of a helix made from spring wire. It is used to store or release energy and can also absorb shock or maintain a force between two surfaces. Compression springs can accomplish many types of applications such as pushing or twisting, and are one of the most efficient energy storage devices available. The spring is extended at rest, shortened and stored with energy when a load is applied.
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How Compression Springs Operate
Compression springs are typically metal due to the stiffness of the material, but differ in their design, with diverse styles of pitch, end configurations, coil design, and diameters. There are normally four types of spring ends, which affects the spring pitch, height, active coils, and mounting characteristics. Open-end springs have a consistent coil pitch while closed-end springs have a reduced pitch at the end coil. Open, ground springs have no reduction in pitch, but the last coil is flat to help distribute load evenly.
Dimensions, load and materials determine the deflection of a compression spring. With compression, the spring will express stored energy in a pushing force. Thicker-coil, thinner-diameter springs require heavier loads to begin compression.
Compression springs are usually heavy duty, small, large or conical. Coil compression springs are wound in a helix typically out of round wire and can be manufactured to very tight tolerances, which allows the coil spring to precisely fit in a hole. A coil spring compression tester can be used to accurately measure the specific load points in the metal spring.
Compression springs that are meant for high temperature applications can reach up to 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit. A steel compression spring can withstand temperatures up to 250°F whereas stainless steel 302/304 can withstand temperatures up to 550°F. For most standard uses, a highly pliable, stainless steel compression spring is ideal.
Spring Safety
Compression springs are usually long lasting, however they are subject to side deflection when not used with a guide, which could crumple the spring and severely damage machinery. Therefore, compression springs should be inspected and checked for lubrication regularly. Oil should be added to the spring if required.
Extend the Life and Quality of Compression Springs by Choosing Quality Materials
Ajax Springs always considers the application of its springs before deciding which material and type of springs to use, to ensure a longer lifetime.
Like all manufacturing companies, your reputation relies on both your experience and the experiences your clients have with your product. This is why Ajax Springs has always prided itself on giving its customers the best experience.
