What is a Spring? Its Types and Manufacturing
A spring functions as a component that stores energy and provides continuous and stable force to a device, allowing for extension or compression.
Springs are widely used in various industrial machines and modern equipment,such as automobiles, lifting mechanisms, medical beds, and furniture hardware.
In these applications, the spring serves as an essential component that isintegrated into the system.
There are many types of springs, each with distinct characteristics and functions. Their performance can vary depending on the material used and the processing methods applied. Common materials include spring steel wire or spring wire, which are used to manufacture compression springs, extension springs, and torsion springs, as well as specialized types such as power springs, constant force springs, constant torque springs, pre-stressed power springs, and variable force springs.
The manufacturing process may involve several stages to ensure structural stability, precise response, and long-term durability, especially for fatigue life and accuracy.
These stages include:
1. Cold Coiling
The spring wire is shaped into the desired form (e.g., helical, torsion, or
extension) at room temperature using mechanical equipment. This step requires
precise control over the coiling angle, number of turns, and pitch.
2. Heat
Treatment (Tempering)
This process relieves the internal stresses caused by cold working, improving
the material’s toughness and stabilizing its elasticity. It prevents permanent
deformation or breakage during prolonged use.
3. Zinc Plating
A protective zinc layer is applied to prevent corrosion caused by exposure to
air or moisture.
4. Anti-Rust Coating or Oil Treatment
A layer of rust preventive oil or coating is applied to enhance the spring’s
durability in high-humidity or salt spray environments.