2 What are Torsion Springs?
Torsion springs are widely used in many different industries, from construction and rail to architecture and aerospace. Their helical design allows them to exert rotary force and is ideal for when there is a need for angular movement with the legs of the spring attached to other components.
These springs can store and release angular energy or just hold a mechanism in place. They are made to provide or maintain a rotational pressure between two surfaces by allowing components to rotate around the centre of the spring, which attempts to push them back to their original position. In a general manner, torsion springs should be created to spring in the opposite direction as the coil, as they will not be able to withstand heavier weights if otherwise.
However, because there are so many different designs, they are capable of meeting many different requirements and fit a wealth of applications.
High carbon steels – the most common materials for springs. They might need extra corrosive protection like pre-galvanised coating.
Stainless steels – perhaps the most important alloy steel for springs, stainless steel has a high degree of corrosion and heat resistance.
Alloy steels – common alloy steels include chrome vanadium and chrome silicon. They’re suitable for shock loads, such as engine valve springs.
Non-ferrous alloys – these alloys are best suited for applications that require good electrical conductivity.
High-temperature alloys – metals like cold drawn nickel and chromium alloys are suitable for applications that need good corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures.
Torsion springs can be used in a wide variety of circumstances, objects and mechanisms. They are common in everyday objects as well. Amongst some of their most popular applications are clothespins, door hinges, paper cutters, vehicle suspensions, watches, clipboards, mousetraps, switches, and much more.