Coil Compression Spring Types
Compression springs are coil springs that have pitch in between the coils and absorb and release energy through compression. This means that when a load or force is placed on a compression spring it presses down on the coils and when the load is removed the spring releases energy as it returns to its original form. Compression springs in general are the most popular type of spring but these can come in different shapes and sizes. There are less common varieties of compression springs that can be considered subcategories of compression springs. These include but are not limited to conical springs, barrel springs and hourglass springs, these all complete the same function but what differentiates them from each other is their shape. Today we will discuss some of the differences and unique characteristics of each of these different types of compression springs.
Regular Compression Springs
A regular compression spring would be an evenly cylindrical shaped coil spring. The dimensions, thickness, length, width etc and adaptations made to regular compression springs can vary. For example, compression spring ends are usually just closed and squared but they can sometimes be ground, or open. Learn more about Compression Spring Ends HERE.
The range of compression spring size can also vary. Usually ranges of regular compression springs can go from Diameters of 0.036 inch to 9.250 inch. Free Lengths from 0.130 inch to 9.880 inch and Wire Diameters from 0.004in to 0.938 in
Depending on the sizes regular compression springs can be categorized into micro compression springs, small compression springs, medium compression springs, and large compression springs. You can learn more about regular compression spring sizes here:Compression Spring Sizes
Conical Compression Springs
Conical springs are cone shaped compression springs, hence the name. These cool cone shaped compression springs can have features that regular compressions don’t. For example, some conical springs have the ability to create a telescope effect so the coils all fit into each other when they are compressed which is awesome for very small spaces where a significant range of compression is required.
Like regular compression springs, conical springs can have different end types. We currently carry a decent variety of conical springs in stock but you can also order custom cone springs. You can learn more about these and how to properly measure a conical spring here: Conical Spring Measurements
The ranges of cone compression springs scan also vary. You can likely find cone spring sizes in ranges that have a small outer diameter from 0.078 inches to 3.500 inches and with a wire diameter that ranges from 0.010 inches to 0.380 inches. You can learn more about Cone Spring Sizes Here
Barrel Compression Springs
Barrel springs are a type of compression spring that has a shape similar to a barrel, hence its name. These types of compression springs have a smaller outer diameter at the top and bottom and a wider one towards the center. Barrel springs are available as custom springs and rarely in stock. They are used to produce linear or nonlinear force and can be made with many different diameters which give you numerous design options. Just like regular compression springs and conical springs the spring size and dimensions can vary.
Barrel springs also have certain benefits due to their shape. Their barrel structure allows an enhanced capacity to prevent buckling and provides greater stability in spaces where bending of the spring due to its length can be an issue.
The shape of a barrel spring not only prevents buckling and gives way to a lot of design options but also makes them great for certain artistic looks. You can learn more about the Benefits of Barrel Springs HERE
Hourglass Compression Springs
Hourglass springs are a type of compression spring that has a concave shape similar to that of an hourglass or barbell. For this reason hourglass springs are also known as concave springs or barbell springs.
This type of compression spring reduces space and prevents buckling. It also provides design options and configurations to choose from to fit in more complex designs.
Like barrel springs, hourglass springs are mostly available through custom spring making and are considered specialty springs and can be made in a variety of sizes to meet the needs of the customer.