Springs are an important part of our everyday life, often taken for granted as they are commonly hidden from view. Products that use springs in their operation such as switches, valves, bed mattresses etc. would not work or be very uncomfortable without them. Although providing a vital function we rarely give a second thought as to how they are designed and made and the technology used in the manufacturing process.
Springs are usually made from spring grade steel wire or strip and are a very efficient store of mechanical energy. A simple compression spring will return nearly all the stored all energy used to compress it. Springs may release this energy immediately when used as shock absorbers or engine valve springs, however it could be many years later as in fire extinguishers for example. Airedale Springs are asked to design and manufacture many springs and wire forms from a very wide range of material types, grades and sizes.
Types of Springs
When thinking of springs, people usually think of the most common, the helical compression spring. However, there are many more types of spring used to achieve various uses. Understanding the different types of springs available makes choosing the right one for whatever you may need slightly easier and makes sure the best possible results are achieved.
There are three main types of spring.
Compression springs – the most common and energy efficient spring type usually loaded in compression. Compression springs with a wire size over 0.5mm can be supplied with ground ends to improve their stability, however it will lead to higher manufacturing costs.
Tension springs – helical extension springs have similar qualities to helical compression springs but are loaded in tension. Hooks or loops are attached at either end to allow connection to the rest of the device.
Torsion springs – helical springs used to store rotational energy. The legs can be designed to be attached too or free to push against other components applying a rotational force or torque. Torsion springs are usually designed for a specific use and the shape of the legs are only limited by the imagination. Torsion springs mainly operate over a shaft running through the body of the spring, sufficient clearance should be given between the inside diameter of the spring body and the shaft to ensure it does not bind at the loaded position.
Airedale Springs provide a wide range of products for any large or small project, please feel free to get in touch with our knowledgeable team to discuss any questions or enquiries you may have and we will be sure to help you. Call us on 01535 643456 or email us at sales@www.airedalesprings.co.uk.