Types of Springs and Their Uses
By Grainger Editorial Staff 7/25/19
Springs are mechanical devices that store energy for release when needed. Springs change their shape when force is applied, then revert back to their original state when pressure is released.
Springs come in many different shapes, sizes and strengths to meet a wide variety of applications. Extra heavy-duty compression and die springs, for example, are used to manage heavier loads or to operate industrial machinery such as in clutch or brake applications. Compression springs are also used in smaller-scale everyday applications such as retractable pens. Torsion springs, which store twisting force and have rotational properties, have widely varied uses from garage doors to safety pins.
Springs are classified into three basic groups: helical or coil; disc and leaf. The chart below organizes the most common springs by their classification and type and describes how they are used.
What Are the Different Types of Springs?
Helical Springs
These simple mechanical devices are among the most common springs used to store and release energy. They are typically made of steel wire wrapped in a tight coil that resembles a screw thread.
| Helical Springs | Description | Uses |
|---|---|---|
|
These round, open-coiled springs store energy when compressed. |
These springs are commonly found in a wide variety of applications from heavier-duty automotive uses to ball-point pens. Compression springs are also used widely in aeronautics, as well as in medical devices. |
|
|
These springs are round and tightly coiled with loops on either end to connect two mechanisms. |
These springs are designed to expand and elongate to resist the pulling-apart force of two devices to prevent them from coming apart. Extension springs have thousands of applications and can be found in everything from trampolines to garage door assemblies. |
|
|
Torsion springs are wound tightly into a spiral with ends that extend away from the device. |
These springs are twisted tight to store potential energy, then release their load in an arc around the axis. These springs are found in clothespins, mouse traps and rocker switches. They are useful for things that rotate less than 360 degrees. |
Disc Springs
These springs are used to evenly distribute heavier loads and absorb shock. Disc springs are commonly used in applications where more flexibility is needed.
| Disc Spring | Description | Uses |
|---|---|---|
|
These round, conical, cupped springs flatten out when pressure is applied. |
Belleville springs are often used to replace coil springs where space is limited and are typically found in applications that require a high amount of force in a small area. These springs have thousands of uses but are often used with bolts and other fasteners to keep them from coming loose in high-vibration environments. |
|
|
The tri-dome metal spring has an irregular, notched shape that allows it to take on more deflection or strain. |
These springs are commonly used in applications where more flexibility is needed and have thousands of mechanical applications. The notched design allows liquid to pass through the assembly. |
|
|
Torsion springs are wound tightly into a spiral with ends that extend away from the device. |
These springs are twisted tight to store potential energy, then release their load in an arc around the axis. These springs are found in clothespins, mouse traps and rocker switches. They are useful for things that rotate less than 360 degrees. |
|
|
These round, open-coiled springs store energy when compressed. |
These springs are commonly found in a wide variety of applications from heavier-duty automotive uses to ball-point pens. Compression springs are also used widely in aeronautics, as well as in medical devices. |
Leaf Springs
These springs are suspension systems for use in buses, vans and trucks that carry heavy loads.
| Leaf Spring | Description | Uses |
|---|---|---|
|
Leaf springs are arc-shaped, steel devices that feature a series of stacked plates (or leaves) of graduated lengths. |
Leaf springs support vehicle suspension and help to provide a smoother ride by absorbing bumps and potholes. These springs are used almost exclusively for automotive suspensions. |
There are many types of springs designed for specific applications, such as pneumatic and plumbing springs. Constant force springs are another type of spring used in applications that need retraction, such as seat belts and tape measures. Whatever force you need for your application, there’s a spring that’s right for the job.
Get more information about the tools and equipment you rely on every day here.
The information contained in this article is intended for general information purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. No representation is made that the information or references are complete or remain current. This article is not a substitute for review of current applicable government regulations, industry standards, or other standards specific to your business and/or activities and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the applicable standards or consult with an attorney.
CONNECT WITH US
SIGN UP FOR EMAIL
Get more great content in your inbox.