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Open coil springs can be divided into different types based on their applications. They include:
Compression open coil springs
These types of springs are built to bear axial load stemming from spring contraction. Usually, they find application in places that require weight support, such as in mattresses and in shock absorbers. Compression springs possess tightly-wounded coils in an open type that vibrates under compressive force.
Tension open coil springs
Tension springs help to withstand axial loads that result from spring stretching. These springs are used in different applications to produce stretching force. Typically, they possess more widely-spaced coils compared to the compression springs. This is because tension springs assist in maintaining constant tension on specific components, for instance, mechanics and equipment parts.
Torsion open coil springs
These springs exert forces perpendicular to the coil's axis. Torsion springs provide resistance to twisting and rotating motions. They are commonly used in applications that require dynamic movements, for instance, rotating mechanisms. Possessing coiled structures that are more than loosely-wound compared to compression springs, torsion springs work efficiently in opposing torsional deformation.
Single and double acting
Coil springs' single and double-acting classifications narrow down to several functional requirements. Single-acting springs perform efficiently only in one motion. On the other hand, double-acting springs provide efficiency in both compression and extension. This feature makes dual springs more desirable in assemblies that require total elasticity in divergent directions.
Open coil springs are widely useful across industries due to their property of elasticity and versatility. Here are some of their uses:
Automotive industry
Open coil springs, such as vehicle springs, suspension systems, and shock absorbers, play a role in stability, support, and ride comfort. The springs help to absorb shocks from the vehicle's frame to make the ride smooth for travelers. Without compression springs, rough road styles could increase discomfort while damaging sensitive electronic items within the car.
Aerospace
In aerospace, open coil springs help to operate doors, landing gear systems, and various mechanical functions. They have high tensile springs that work well under extreme conditions. For example, basic applications require lightweight, compact, and durable springs to reduce the vehicle's weight and increase flying efficiency.
Home appliances
Open coil springs also appear in various home appliances. For instance, they enhance operation in washing machines, refrigerators, and coffee makers. In washing machine springs, for example, they balance drum movements during spinning and washing cycles. As a result, open coil springs decrease vibration and noise while increasing the appliance's durability.
Electronics
Open coil springs, mainly compression ones, are widely found in electronic products. Such products include keyboards, remote controls, and sensors. They ensure key return and haptic feedback in keyboards. This function is critical for providing users with a responsive experience when typing. In addition, they act as anti-vibration elements for sensitive hardware components. This feature enhances the longevity of the electronics.
Industrial machinery
In industries, open coil springs serve Val's critical roles in machines and equipment. Sheet metal springs support loads, absorb energy, and ensure materials conveyers operate smoothly without excessive noise. In this case, tension springs maintain correct belt tension. Compression springs are used in places such as product packaging, where extended lifespan and reliability are crucial.
Several general features and technical attributes characterize open coil springs. These aspects determine their performance and reliability.
Material: Steel alloy and stainless steel are typical materials used in making open coil springs. Every feature possesses high elasticity. In addition, both materials resist deformation under repetitive stress. Stainless steel also provides anti-corrosive properties. This feature enables the spring to last longer in moisture and chemical deposit environment.
Design: Open coil springs consist of a helical shape with unquoted and distantly placed coils. Thus, the configuration allows maximum flexibility and stretch. The widely-varying spaced coils in tension springs facilitate enhanced movement, while tightly-spaced coiled ones in compression springs facilitate loads bearing as required. The spring’s diameter and length usually vary based on application requirements.
Load capacity: Open coil springs can be small, usually measuring 0.1 to 0.2 meters, or large, usually 5 to 7 meters, depending on the coil's wire diameter and material. Bigger diameter springs have greater load-carrying capacities. Their extended length, however, results in decreased load capacity. Under heavy loads, shorter springs are more preferable.
Elongation: Open coil springs also vary their elongation range. It can either be short, 5 to 10 mm, or long, over 100 mm, depending on the application. Longer coils allow greater stretching. Consequently, they are ideal for dynamic applications like electronic equipment. For static load support, shorter coils are mostly utilized.
Coil spacing: An important feature of open coil springs is their coil spacing. While the coil spacing of compression springs is close, that of tension springs is wide. This is because tension coils maintain constant spring tension. Conversely, compression coils are designed to decrease load as they compress the coil closer together.
Some key technical specifications include:
Coil springs, being part of the machine, contribute to the overall safety and quality of the machine. Therefore, quality standards must be observed to ensure reliability and performance. Some important quality and safety considerations are listed below:
Material quality
Material used in making open coil springs affects their strength and elasticity as well as durability. Stainless steel and carbon steel alloys provide superior corrosion resistance, tensile strength, and fatigue properties. On the other hand, low-quality metals, such as iron, easily corrode. Moreover, they have a higher propensity for deformation. Just like hardware tools parts, ensure only quality parts are used in producing coil springs.
Heat treatment
Heat treatment enhances the spring material's hardness and elasticity. The quality of springs that are not heat-treated will likely be lower since the materials will be less resistant to wear. As a result, non-heat-treated springs suffer from permanent deformation. Good quality springs will not deform after long usage. Due to heat treatment, they become more elastic.
Load handling capacity and inspection
Overloading open coil springs pose a serious threat. When overloaded, the springs easily fail, causing damage to surrounding parts while injuring workers. Establishing load limits helps avert such spring failures. Additionally, regularly inspecting helps identify signs of fatigue or corrosion.
Fatigue testing and corrosion resistance
Fatigue tests measure the spring's life under cyclic loads. This test helps identify low-quality springs. Open coil springs that do not withstand fatigue cracking have a high tendency to fail cataclysmically. Corrosion compromises spring integrity. Thus, always ensure that springs are made of anti-corrosive materials when entailing high moisture environments.
Coating
Coating protects against environmental hazards, such as moisture and chemicals. Zinc and powder coatings are commonly utilized. A quality hand tool set will often have zinc coatings. Poor coatings will not effectively protect the spring. This will expose the spring to rust formation. Rust affects performance as well as reduces the lifespan.
Choosing the right open coil spring requires several spring factors and application requirements. Here are some key factors to consider:
Load requirements
The first consideration is the load requirement of the desired application. Determine the maximum and minimum loads the spring will generally support. For heavy loads, choose springs with thicker wire diameters and shorter lengths. For lighter loads, thinner coils and longer springs are usually more suitable.
Material selection
The most suitable material to make open coil springs depend on the environment and required durability. For example, stainless steel comes highly recommended for high-corrosive environments, such as marine or medical applications. If the application requires heat or chemical exposure, high carbon steel offers increased heat resistance. This makes it ideal for industrial applications.
Spring type
Choose the spring type based on the application. For load support and shock absorption, compression springs work best. They are ideal for storing energy. Tension springs help maintain force balance in systems requiring dynamic movement. Their widely spaced coils make them suitable for mechanical assemblies.
Space constraints
Consider the amount of space available for coil springs. Small-diameter springs work best for devices with limited space. For powerful applications, large diameter springs fit better. However, they also take up more space.
Coil spacing and surface finish
Coil spacing affects the spring's flexibility and compression. This feature directly influences the spring’s performance. The more spaced the coils, the more flexible the spring is. Conversely, the closer the coils, the greater the load it supports. Surface finish directly affects the spring's lifespan. A smoother finish minimizes friction. Therefore, it increases spring longevity.
A1: Open coil springs are utilized in automotive suspension systems to absorb shocks and provide stability. They are also found in mattresses, where compression springs are responsible for support and comfort. In machinery and industrial equipment, metal springs store energy, resist loads, and facilitate movements.
A2: Yes, like other metallic components, open coil springs can rust. However, springs made from stainless steel or galvanized steel are more resistant to rust than others.
A3: Yes, these springs, like others, tend to return to their original shape when released from the load they are supporting.
A4: Maintenance of open coil springs includes regular inspection for signs of corrosion and fatigue. Environmental conditions should also be controlled. Lubrication with anti-corrosive oil helps retard corrosion and reduce rusting.
