A spring is defi ned as an elastic machine element, which defl ects under the action of the load
and returns to its original shape when the load is removed
1. Springs are used to absorb shocks and vibrations, e.g., vehicle suspension springs,
railway buffer springs, buffer springs in elevators and vibration mounts for machinery.
2. Springs are used to store energy, e.g., springs used in clocks, toys, movie-cameras,
circuit breakers and starters.
3. Springs are used to measure force, e.g., springs used in weighing balances and scales.
4. Springs are used to apply force and control motion. There are a number of springs used
for this purpose
Helical spring
1) The most popular type of spring is the helical spring.
2) The helical spring is made from a wire, usually of circular cross section, which is bent in the
form of a helix
3) two basic types of helical springs—compression spring and extension spring
4)
5) The helical springs are sometimes classifi ed as closely-coiled helical spring and open-
coiled helical spring.
• A helical spring is said to be closely coiled spring, when the spring wire is coiled so
close that the plane containing each coil is almost at right angles to the axis of the
helix. In other words, the helix angle is very small. It is usually less than 10°.
• A helical spring is said to be open-coiled spring, when the spring wire is coiled in
such a way, that there is large gap between adjacent coils
Leaf spring
1) A multi-leaf or laminated spring consists of a series of fl at plates, usually of semi-elliptical
shape as shown in Fig. 10.3. The fl at plates, called leaves
2)
3) The leaves are held together by means of U-bolts and a centre clip
4) The leaves of multi-leaf spring are subjected to bending stresses
1) A leaf spring is a simple form of a spring made of multiple layers (leaves) of metal, usually
steel, that flex to absorb shock and loads.
It acts as a flexible beam that bends under load.
2) • Master Leaf: The longest leaf with eyes at each end for mounting.
• Graduated Leaves: Shorter leaves stacked below the master leaf.
• Center Bolt: Holds the leaves together.
• Clips/Bands: Prevent lateral shifting.
• A rebound clip is a clamp-like device used to hold together the individual leaves
of a leaf spring.
It’s typically a metal strap or clip riveted or bolted around the spring leaves.
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DESIGN OF HELICAL SPRINGS
There are three objectives for the design of the helical spring. They are as follows:
(i) It should possess sufficient strength to withstand the external load.
(ii) (ii) It should have the required load-deflection characteristic.
(iii) (iii) It should not buckle under the external load. It is possible to design a
number of springs for