Classification and function of common springs

A spring is an elastic element that deforms by using the elasticity and properties of its material. Springs are found in many everyday places, such as the small spring that returns a ballpoint pen, and the buffer spring under an elevator for shock absorption. Machines and instruments use springs mainly to absorb shock and vibration and to measure force.

Classification of springs

A spring is a common energy-storage component used for shock absorption, clamping, energy storage and metering. By load type, springs are divided into tension, compression, torsion and bending springs. By shape they are divided into coil springs, disc springs, ring springs and leaf springs. By material they are divided into metal, non-metal, plastic, rubber and gas springs.

Spring products are suitable for a wide range of uses, including toys, lighting, luggage and leather goods, stationery, electronics and appliances, cameras, precision equipment, vehicles, hardware and plastics, electronic scales, remote controls, strollers, bicycles, washing machines, vacuum cleaners, lamps, switches, sockets, water heaters, calculators, watches, igniters, motors, mobile phones and similar products.

Functions of springs

A spring is a widely used elastic part with high elasticity and a tendency to deform easily. Its main functions are as follows.

First, reducing shock and absorbing vibration. Spring deformation absorbs the energy of collision and vibration, as in cushion springs on vehicles and forging equipment and in vibration-damping springs in couplings.

Second, controlling the movement of mechanisms. The elastic force of the spring keeps components in contact to control mechanism motion, as in the valve springs of internal-combustion engines and the control springs in brakes, clutches, cam mechanisms and governors, and the safety springs on safety valves.

Third, storing and outputting power. Energy stored when the spring deforms is released to do work, as in clock springs, bolt springs and the automatic-return springs of machine-tool tool holders.

Fourth, measuring force. Because spring deformation is linearly related to the load applied, springs are used in force testers, spring scales and engine dynamometers.