Spring Classification

Common types of springs fall into three main categories: tension coil springs, compression coil springs and torsion coil springs.

As vital components in industrial systems, springs are widely consumed and available in a vast variety, making them commonly used parts in the machinery industry and daily life. When subjected to loads, springs undergo significant elastic deformation, converting mechanical work or kinetic energy into deformation energy. Once the load is removed, the springs revert to their original shape as deformation disappears, transforming deformation energy back into mechanical work or kinetic energy.

Spring steel wire refers to a type of steel wire used for manufacturing springs or wire-shaped components. Since springs generate energy through elastic deformation, spring steel wire does not necessarily need high plasticity. However, it must at least possess sufficient plasticity for spring forming and adequate toughness to withstand impact energy.

Various types of spring steel wires are adopted for springs with different application purposes, such as low-grade wire for mattress springs, wires for shock absorbers, suspension springs, engine valve springs and camera shutter springs. Though there are no unified standard classification designations, these steel wires carry distinct quality requirements. Springs operating in specific environments impose additional special demands on the steel wire. For instance, springs used in corrosive media must feature excellent corrosion resistance. Springs applied in precision instruments are required to deliver long-term stability and high sensitivity, along with a low temperature coefficient, high quality factor, minimal aftereffect and a constant elastic modulus. Springs working under high-temperature conditions need to maintain a sufficient elastic limit and outstanding creep resistance at elevated temperatures.