Compression Springs

Compression springs are open-coil helical springs engineered to store energy and provide resistance when subjected to linear compressive forces. Upon application of a load, the spring compresses and exerts an opposing force to return to its original free length, making it a fundamental component in countless mechanical assemblies.

Critical Design Parameters

To ensure optimal performance and precise fitment, the following engineering parameters must be specified during design or procurement:

Wire Diameter : The cross-sectional thickness of the wire material.
Outer Diameter : The maximum width of the spring coil.
Inner Diameter : The clearance diameter of the coil interior.
Free Length : The total length of the spring in its unloaded state.
Total Coils : The full count of coils from end to end.
Active Coils : The specific coils that deflect and generate spring force (determined by the end configuration).
Solid Height: The maximum compressed length when all coils are in full contact.

End Configurations

The treatment of spring ends is critical for seating stability and uniform force transmission:

Closed & Ground: Ends are squared and ground flat. This configuration offers superior squareness and even load distribution, ideal for high-precision machinery.
Closed (Not Ground): End coils are in contact but not ground. A cost-effective solution for general-purpose applications.
Open & Ground: A specialized configuration used for specific mounting or guidance requirements.
Open (Not Ground): Typically used for micro-diameter wires or applications where flat seating is not a primary constraint.

Manufacturing Materials

Carbon Steel (e.g., Music Wire, Hard Drawn): Delivers high tensile strength and reliable performance for general mechanical needs.
Stainless Steel (e.g., SUS302, SUS316): Offers superior corrosion and heat resistance, essential for medical, food-grade, and chemical environments.
Alloy Steel (e.g., Chrome Silicon 55CrSi): Provides exceptional fatigue resistance and shock tolerance, specifically designed for automotive suspensions and high-frequency cycles.

Compression springs can be formed in many shapes and sizes and are used in a wide diversity of applications including valves, pumps, switches, medical devices, locks etc. Ends can be ground to deliver additional stability and good contact area.There are several types of pitching available including linear, progressive and multiple/variable pitch.
Compression Springs are found in a wide variety of applications ranging from automotive engines and large stamping presses to major appliances and lawn mowers to medical devices, cell phones, electronics and sensitive instrumentation devices. The most basic installation is anywhere requiring a push button.