What are the two functions of springs?

Springs are essentially mechanical devices used for centuries to store and release energy. They are found in various applications, from everyday objects to complex machinery. This article will explore these two functions in detail and provide examples of how springs are utilized in different industries.

Absorbing Energy

One of the primary functions of springs is to absorb and store mechanical energy. When a force is applied to a spring, it undergoes deformation, either compressing or stretching, depending on the spring type. This deformation allows the spring to absorb the applied energy and store it for later use.

Compression Springs

Compression springs are the most common and often seen in everyday objects. They are designed to resist compression forces and absorb energy when compressed. The stored energy is released when the force is removed, causing the spring to return to its original shape.

Compression springs can be found in various applications, such as:

• Automotive suspensions: Compression springs absorb the impact from bumps and uneven surfaces, providing a smooth and comfortable ride.
• Exercise equipment: Compression springs are used in exercise equipment to provide resistance and control the movement of the equipment.
• Aerospace industry (landing gear): Compression springs support the aircraft’s weight during landing and absorb the impact forces, ensuring a safe landing.
• Shock absorbers: Compression springs in shock absorbers absorb and dissipate the energy generated from road irregularities, providing a smoother ride.
• Mechanical keyboards: Compression springs in mechanical keyboards provide tactile feedback and help control the movement of the keys.

Tension Springs

Tension springs, or extension springs, work opposite to compression springs. They are designed to absorb energy when they are stretched. When the force is released, the tension spring contracts, releasing the stored energy and returning to its original length.

Tension springs are used in many applications, including:

• Trampolines: Tension springs in trampolines store and release energy as users jump on the surface, providing the bouncing effect.
• Garage doors: Tension springs in garage doors counterbalance the door’s weight and help in its smooth opening and closing.
• Industrial equipment: Tension springs are used in various industrial equipment to provide tension and control the movement of components.
• Toys and games: Tension springs are commonly used in toys and games to create motion or provide interactive features.
• Medical devices: Tension springs provide controlled tension and assist in the movement certain mechanisms.

Torsion Springs

Torsion springs are a type of spring that works by twisting or torsion. They store and release energy by rotating around a central axis. When a force is applied, the spring twists, storing energy. When the force is released, the torsion spring untwists, releasing the stored energy.

Some examples of torsion spring applications are:

• Clothespins: Torsion springs in clothespins provide the force to hold clothes on a line by exerting pressure through twisting.
• The garage door hinges: Torsion springs assist in the smooth opening and closing of garage doors by storing and releasing energy as they twist.
• Swing doors: Torsion springs are used in swing doors to provide the force needed for closing and to ensure controlled opening.
• Clocks and watches: Torsion springs are used in clocks and watches to provide the necessary torque for their timekeeping mechanism.

Maintaining Position or Force

Aside from absorbing energy, springs also maintain a desired position or force. They are used to exert a specific amount of pressure or keep objects in place by opposing external forces. Let’s explore some common examples of this function.

Constant Force Springs

Constant force springs are specifically designed to exert a consistent force throughout their range of motion. These springs are typically made from a flat strip of material tightly wound into a spiral shape. They provide a constant force, regardless of the extension or compression.

Constant force springs find applications in:

• Window shades and blinds: Constant force springs are used in window shades and blinds to provide a continuous force that keeps them in the desired position.
• Automotive seat belts: Constant force springs are utilized in automotive seat belts to retract and hold the belt snugly against the occupant.
• Retractable pens: Constant force springs in retractable pens provide the necessary force to extend and retract the pen tip.
• Tape measures: Constant force springs are used in tape measures to ensure smooth and controlled retraction of the tape.
• Roll-up doors: Constant force springs assist in rolling and unrolling doors, such as those used in warehouses or commercial establishments.

Belleville Washers

Belleville washers, also known as conical spring washers, are designed to maintain a specific load or tension. They are shaped like a cone and provide a high spring force in a small space. Belleville washers often prevent bolt loosening, compensate for thermal expansion, or maintain proper preload on bearings.

Some applications of Belleville washers include:

• Automotive engines: Belleville washers are used in automotive engines to maintain proper tension on critical components, such as timing belts.
• High-pressure valves: Belleville washers are employed in high-pressure valves to maintain a tight seal and compensate for pressure fluctuations.
• Industrial machinery: Belleville washers use various industrial machinery to provide tension and prevent the loosening of critical fasteners under heavy vibrations.
• Electrical connectors: Belleville washers are utilized in electrical connectors to maintain proper contact pressure and ensure reliable electrical connections.
• Construction equipment: Belleville washers are often employed to maintain tension in bolts and prevent loosening due to constant vibrations and heavy loads.

Wave Springs

Wave springs are a type of compression spring characterized by their wave-like shape. They are designed to provide a compact, lightweight solution while exerting a constant force or load. Wave springs are commonly used when space is limited, or weight reduction is crucial.

Wave springs find applications in various industries, such as:

• Aerospace industry: Wave springs are used in aerospace applications where weight reduction and space-saving are critical factors, such as aircraft landing gear assemblies.
• Medical devices: Wave springs provide controlled force or tension, such as in surgical instruments or implantable devices.
• Automotive industry: Wave springs find use in automotive applications where space constraints and weight reduction are important, such as steering systems or clutch mechanisms.
• Electronics: Wave springs provide constant force for connectors, switches, or other components where space is limited.
• Power generation: Wave springs are employed in power generation equipment, such as turbines or generators, to provide tension or control movement in critical parts.

Conclusion

Springs play a crucial role in many aspects of our lives and industries. Their ability to absorb and release energy and maintain a desired position or force makes them indispensable in countless applications. In compression, tension, torsion, constant force, or waveform, springs provide reliable and efficient solutions across various fields. Understanding the functions of springs allows us to appreciate their importance and the engineering behind them.

FAQ

1. What is the function of compression springs?

• Compression springs are designed to resist compression forces and absorb energy when compressed. They store the energy and release it when the force is removed.

1. What is the function of tension springs?

• Tension springs, also known as extension springs, absorb energy when stretched. They store the energy and release it when the force is released.

1. What is the function of torsion springs?

• Torsion springs work by twisting or torsion. They store and release energy by rotating around a central axis. When a force is applied, the spring twists, storing energy. When the force is released, the torsion spring untwists, releasing the stored energy.

1. Apart from absorbing energy, what other functions do springs serve?

• Springs also serve to maintain a desired position or force. They exert specific pressure or keep objects in place by opposing external forces.