A spring is an elastic object, usually a helical metal coil that can be squeezed or pulled but returns to its previous shape when released, it is mainly used to exert constant tension or absorb movement. The automobile, aircraft, and engineering industry form the higher part in the demand of different types of springs
Springs are manufactured using a process called steel metal stamping to create products that are suitable for specific electronic or industrial purposes. In this process the sheets are inserted into a press or a die, then bent or molded into a predetermined size or shape. Manufacturers use sheets only up to a certain thickness to ensure that the sheets are properly stamped.
Most stamping machines can take sheets up to ¼ inch thick. Heavier stamping machines are used to create spring products out of thicker metal sheets without sacrificing quality, consistency, and the condition of the stamping machine itself. There are three components involved in the metal stamping process. Normally a spring manufacturer would use a die or press, a punch, and a blank holder or a binder. The press and the blank holder keep the metal sheet in place as the punch is driven onto the metal sheet to make the desired shape. The blank holder prevents the sheet from tearing or wrinkling upon contact by providing a solid support for the sheet.
The manufacturers use different kinds of metals for stamping but they are also very specific such as; Brass, hot rolled or cold rolled steel, Aluminum, galvanized steel, Stainless Steel, Zinc, Copper, Beryllium Copper and Titanium all work perfectly when metal stamped. . Beryllium Copper Springs have low electrical resistance. Thus it is mostly used in those parts that carry electrical currents.
These metals and metal alloys have low brittleness and high malleability that allow them to be shaped and bent without chipping off or breaking. A spring manufacturer would not find it difficult when creating products using these metals because they are very durable with high breaking strength.
Here is a list of the different type of springs for assorted applications.
- Coil Springs
- Flat Springs
- Disc Springs
- Strip Springs
- Spiral Springs
- Metal Springs
- Power Springs
- Hot Coiled Springs
- Constant Force Springs
- Torsion Springs and many more.
- Compression & Extension Springs (Round Wire & Square or Rectangular Section)
Applications
- Hoists
- Dampers
- Shock Mounts
- Machine Tools
- Brakes & Clutches
- Vibrators and many more.
Advantages
- Space saving
- Long service life
- Greater security
- Low maintenance cost
- Hovering energy storage capacity
- No fatigue or deformation under normal loads
- Self-damping, suitable for shock absorption and energy dissipation