Torsion springs are helical metal springs that store mechanical energy when twisted. Twisted springs exert equal force in opposite directions but in proportion to the amount applied. Consequently, the coils become tighter, and the spring diameter is reduced, resulting in a longer spring body.
So, do torsion springs work in both directions?
Yes, torsion springs are designed to work in both directions. They can work either clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on their application. The legs of this type of spring can be positioned across the centerline axis to hold a mechanism in place.
Which Way Do You Wind Torsion Springs?
If you are looking down the barrel of spring, you can determine the direction of the wind. In order for torsion springs to work properly, their back legs must be horizontal and positioned at the top. You can tell the direction of the wind by looking at the back leg.
A correct method for winding tension springs is to wind them with the right hand on one side and the left hand on the other. Whenever a torsion spring is loaded, the spring body must be closed in the direction of the spring wire.
Spring coil directions are determined by the direction (clockwise or counterclockwise) in which they are wound. When the end of the spring wire is at 9 o’clock, the spring is wound left-handed. Whenever it’s positioned at 3 o’clock, the spring is wound right-handed.
The Relevant Parameters of Torsion Springs
Dimensions
- Body length: It is the measured length of the spring coil at rest.
- Inside diameter: A spring’s inside diameter determines whether it is required to fit snugly over a mandrel and function properly.
- Outside diameter: The outside diameter of a spring is determined by how much clearance it needs on the outside in order to run freely inside a cylinder.
Performance Factors
- Maximum Deflection: Spring maximum deflection is the amount of angular deflection the spring is capable of when overstressed.
- Maximum Load: At maximum deflection, maximum load equals rated load.
- Wind Specifications: There are three types of winding for torsion springs: right hand, left hand, and double torsion. The legs of the Arrow Manufacturing Torsion Springs are positioned at various angles when unloaded.
Configurations of Torsion Springs
The purpose of torsion springs is to provide an angular return force through rotational actuation. Leg configurations can be arranged in many different ways, making it possible to attach the spring in many different ways. In addition to leg angle and leg length, legend style is another factor to consider when choosing a torsion spring.
If the springs are parallel or straight in the same direction, then there will be a 0-degree angle between them. If the springs are unwinding, then the angle will increase. There are several options for legend style, including straight offset, hinged, short hooks, straight torsion and hook ends.
The ends of torsion springs can be twisted, hooked, bent or looped to meet the needs of your project. There are four different positions of free leg available with Arrow Manufacturing Torsion Springs: 90, 180, 270, and 360 degrees.
In comparison to compression and extension springs, Torsion Springs can be a bit more difficult to find in stock, but Arrow Manufacturing makes it simple. For every stock spring, we provide the number of coils. Feel free to contact us directly at (888) 31 with any additional questions or suggestions before placing your order.
