Torsion springs are helical metal springs that store mechanical energy when twisted. Once twisted, the spring exerts proportional force to the amount applied but in the opposite direction. This force twists the coils tighter, reducing the spring diameter and making the body longer.
This unique role that torsion springs provide makes them indispensable across many different applications. Discover how our custom spring design and manufacturing results have benefitted thousands of applications globally.
The Requirements for Bespoke Torsion Spring Design
As experienced torsion spring manufacturers, we create bespoke springs in various sizes, materials, and thicknesses to suit any application. Miniature torsion springs are used for electronics, while larger variations can be used for industrial uses.
When designing torsion springs, there are several key considerations that spring manufacturers like us take into account to ensure their effectiveness and maximise the spring lifecycle.
- The load requirements and desired torque must be carefully analysed to determine the appropriate spring diameter, wire size, and coil configuration.
- The choice of material is also crucial, affecting the spring’s flexibility, fatigue strength, and corrosion resistance.
- Additionally, factors such as the number of active coils, the angle of the helix, and the direction of the wind must be considered to achieve the desired force application and torque output.
- Proper end treatments and attachment methods are also essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
By meticulously considering these design aspects, spring manufacturers can create torsion springs that deliver precise and reliable force, meeting the unique requirements of various applications. The following are some common applications you have probably encountered using torsion springs.
Torsion Springs for Doors and Hinges
Torsion springs are vital in all different types of doors, such as residential, garage, and overhead doors used at loading docks and warehouses. They vary greatly in size and lift due to the wide range of door sizes and weights.
These springs are widely used in door hinges, allowing the door to return to its original position. If you have noticed doors in saloons that move back and forth when opened but ultimately become stationary at their original position – this is due to springs used in their hinges.
Torsion Springs for Retractable Seating
To provide more seats in the same space, new sporting and entertainment stadium seats are fitted with a mechanism to retract or lift the seat when not used. This provides the necessary space between the seating for evacuation and cleaning.
Similar to those used for door closures, Torsion springs lift the seat. These have been used for many years in cinemas where weights in the seat provided the lift. The advantage of the torsion spring is that smaller seats can be used, and where necessary, damping can be included to give a slow refined movement.
Torsion Springs in Clipboards
Clipboards are a popular object that uses torsion springs. Similar to the motion of clothes pegs, clipboards clamp down to allow materials to be held in place. This powerful hold is due to the movement of the torsion spring pushing back as the material is placed underneath.
Torsion Springs in Medical Equipment
In the medical industry, industrial torsion springs are used in numerous pieces of complex equipment. Medical equipment that uses these springs includes medical immobilisation devices, hospital beds, dental applications, and wheelchair lifts. These springs are made from high-carbon steel for additional strength, which also helps increase the spring’s life span.
This type of spring is normally closed wound but can have a pitch to reduce friction between the coils. They offer resistance to twist or rotationally applied force. Depending on the application, torsion springs can be designed to work in a clockwise or counter-clockwise rotation, thus determining the direction of the wind.
Torsion springs can also be configured to attach to components differently, including custom leg angles, lengths, and end styles.
Torsion Springs for Ceiling Light Fittings
With the introduction of LED lighting, light fillings have become smaller and less intrusive. The lighting unit is fitted into ceiling tiles for commercial applications to prevent them from falling out and allow access or replacement. The fittings are held in place by two torsion springs. These springs are usually double torsion but can also be single torsion with special legs to apply pressure on the back of the ceiling tile. The torsion spring is ideal as it fits the housing with a wide range of ceiling tile thicknesses.
Leading UK Torsion Spring Manufacturer
Here at Airedale Springs, we understand the importance springs have in many components. Over the years, we have become an industry leader in the spring industry, supplying clients with many different products, from:
And, of course, torsion springs. If you would like to know more about what we offer, get in touch with a member of our team who is happy to help.