03 Apr

Enhancing Spring Tension Practical Techniques for Different Spring Types

How to increase spring tension and how to measure spring tension are important design considerations in the manufacture of custom springs. Spring tension allows engineers to design and select springs that meet specific performance requirements for a given application, and also enhance the functionality and reliability of a mechanical system. To further understand, let’s take a look at the basics of spring tension, and certain factors that can influence the performance of different types of springs.

The Science Behind Spring Tension: Exploring the Basics

Spring tension refers to the load or force exerted by a spring when it undergoes deformation or displacement while being stretched or compressed. It is a key parameter in Hooke’s Law of Elasticity, which describes the relationship between the force applied to a spring and the resulting deformation or displacement of that spring. This is differentiated from a spring’s initial tension, defined as the force that keeps the coils at rest while the spring is in a set position. Initial tension is measured by the load or force required to overcome the internal force to initiate coil separation.

Measuring spring tension helps determine how effectively a spring will function in a particular application, how much potential energy is stored in the spring, and how much force is required to deform it. In sum, this tension contributes to the overall force exerted by the spring when it is compressed or extended.