INDUSTRY COMPONENT

Compression Spring

A helical compression spring that stores mechanical energy when compressed and releases it when the load is removed, used in various industrial applications.

Component Specifications

Definition
A compression spring is an open-coil helical spring that offers resistance to a compressive force applied axially. It is designed to operate with a compression load, so the spring gets shorter as the load is applied. The spring's primary function is to return to its original length after being compressed, providing push-back force, absorbing shock, maintaining force between surfaces, or controlling motion in mechanical assemblies.
Working Principle
Compression springs operate based on Hooke's Law, where the force exerted by the spring is directly proportional to its displacement from the equilibrium position (F = -kx). When compressed, the spring stores potential energy in the form of elastic deformation of the material. This energy is released when the load is removed, returning the spring to its free length.
Materials
Typically made from high-carbon steel (ASTM A229), alloy steel (ASTM A232/A313), stainless steel (302/304/316), music wire, phosphor bronze, or Inconel for high-temperature applications. Material selection depends on required strength, corrosion resistance, temperature range, and fatigue life.
Technical Parameters
  • End Types Closed and ground, closed, open, double closed
  • Free Length 10-500 mm
  • Spring Rate 0.1-100 N/mm
  • Active Coils Total coils minus 2 (for closed ends)
  • Solid Height Wire diameter × (total coils + 1)
  • Wire Diameter 0.5-20 mm
  • Outer Diameter 3-200 mm
Standards
ISO 10243, DIN 2095, DIN 2096, ASTM A125

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Compression Spring.

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation
  • Fatigue failure from cyclic loading
  • Corrosion in harsh environments
  • Buckling under high compression
  • Over-compression beyond solid height
  • Improper installation causing misalignment
FMEA Triads
Trigger: Cyclic loading exceeding fatigue limit
Failure: Fatigue fracture of spring wire
Mitigation: Design with adequate safety factor, use shot peening to improve fatigue life, select appropriate material with high endurance limit
Trigger: Exposure to corrosive environments
Failure: Corrosion leading to reduced cross-section and premature failure
Mitigation: Use corrosion-resistant materials (stainless steel, Inconel), apply protective coatings, implement regular inspection schedules
Trigger: Compression beyond solid height
Failure: Permanent set or plastic deformation
Mitigation: Design with proper clearance, install limit stops, specify maximum working compression

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Interchangeable Parts

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance
±2% on spring rate, ±2% on free length (standard tolerance per ISO 10243)
Test Method
Compression testing per ISO 10243: Load-deflection testing, fatigue testing, salt spray testing for corrosion resistance, dimensional verification

Buyer Feedback

★★★★☆ 4.6 / 5.0 (34 reviews)

"Reliable performance in harsh Machinery and Equipment Manufacturing environments. No issues with the Compression Spring so far."

"Testing the Compression Spring now; the technical reliability results are within 1% of the laboratory datasheet."

"Impressive build quality. Especially the technical reliability is very stable during long-term operation."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between compression springs and extension springs?

Compression springs are designed to operate with a compressive load and get shorter when loaded, while extension springs are designed to resist stretching and get longer when loaded. Compression springs typically have closed or ground ends, while extension springs have hooks or loops at the ends.

How do I calculate the spring rate of a compression spring?

The spring rate (k) is calculated using the formula: k = (G × d⁴) / (8 × D³ × N), where G is the modulus of rigidity of the material, d is the wire diameter, D is the mean coil diameter, and N is the number of active coils.

What causes compression spring failure?

Common failure modes include fatigue failure due to cyclic loading, corrosion (especially in harsh environments), over-compression beyond solid height, improper installation causing buckling, and material defects. Proper design considering working stress, fatigue life, and environmental factors can prevent most failures.

Can I contact factories directly?

Yes, each factory profile provides direct contact information.

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