Tension Spring

High Quality Indusrial Spring

Manufacturers and Suppliers of Tension Spring

A tension spring, also known as an extension spring, is a mechanical device designed to store energy and exert a pulling force when stretched. These springs are characterized by their close-coiled helical structure and the hooks, loops, or other attachment points at their ends, which facilitate the application of a tensile load. Here are some key aspects and applications of tension springs:

Key Characteristics

Material: Typically made from high-carbon steel, stainless steel, or other alloyed metals, depending on the required strength, corrosion resistance, and operating environment.
Coil Direction: Tension springs can be coiled in a right-hand or left-hand direction, but this does not affect their performance in most applications.
Hook Types: The ends of tension springs can be configured in various ways, including English hooks, German hooks, extended hooks, and more, to suit different attachment needs.
Spring Rate: This is the force required to extend the spring by a unit distance, typically measured in Newtons per millimeter (N/mm) or pounds per inch (lb/in). It is determined by the material, wire diameter, coil diameter, and number of active coils.
Initial Tension: Tension springs are designed with an initial tension, which is the force that must be applied to begin extending the spring. This feature ensures the spring remains tight and maintains its position until a specific load is applied.

Applications

Automotive: Used in various mechanisms such as carburetors, brakes, and clutches.
Industrial Machinery: Employed in assemblies and components to provide consistent tension, including in conveyor systems and machinery linkages.
Household Appliances: Found in items like garage doors, trampolines, and washing machines.
Aerospace and Defense: Used in precision instruments and control systems where reliable tension is critical.
Toys and Tools: Common in retractable pens, scales, and manual hand tools.

Design Considerations

When selecting or designing a tension spring, several factors should be considered:
Load Requirements: The spring should be able to handle the maximum load without permanent deformation.
Environmental Conditions: Corrosive environments, temperature extremes, and exposure to chemicals may require specialized materials or coatings.
Fatigue Life: The spring should endure the expected number of load cycles without significant loss of performance.
Installation Space: The spring’s dimensions must fit within the available space in the application.