Canted coil springs as gas-nozzle connector stabilizers

The stability and reliability of mechanical connections are a continuing focus in engineering. Because a canted coil spring is small and carries many coils, it offers good conformability and technical economy, which makes it particularly well suited to the design of connecting parts. Wherever a contact connection is needed, a canted coil spring should be considered.

Constant force over a wide range

A canted coil spring maintains a very constant force over a wide range of deflection. The spring does not deform much within this range, so it can compensate for large separation tolerances and surface unevenness. It also accepts tightening deformation, which lets it continue to operate smoothly under shock, vibration and harsh conditions. These properties make the spring stable in the structure of a connection.

Stabilizing a gas-nozzle connector

The gas nozzle on a typical air compressor is screw-connected, so under very high air pressure the nozzle can be blown off. If a canted coil spring is used to hold and seal the adapter together instead, no amount of air pressure will separate the connecting parts. This is the stabilizing function of the spring.

Radial and axial springs

Canted coil springs are divided into radial and axial types according to their structure. The tightening force of a radial spring acts along the radius of the ring, perpendicular to the centerline, so it is generally used for connecting parts. The tightening force of an axial spring acts along the ring, parallel to the centerline, so it is generally used as a sealing ring.