Torsion Spring Types

• Torsion springs are springs that work by twisting. "Torsion" is another term for twisting. This type of spring stores mechanical energy when it is twisted. The more that a torsion spring is twisted, the greater amount of force it possesses. Different types of torsion springs are used depending on the types of applications. Learning about what types are out there is a good place to start.

Single Torsion Springs

• Single torsion springs are the most basic type of torsion spring. They consist of a coiled wire with two protruding ends. These protruding ends are sheared. A common example of a small torsion spring is the spring in a clothespin. Single torsion springs can be wound clockwise or counter-clockwise.

Materials

• The material from which a torsion spring is made is a very important way to differentiate types. Heavy duty torsion springs can be made from wire, ribbon, bars of metal or rubber, while smaller, more delicate types of torsion springs can be made from silk, glass or quartz fibers.

Torsion Bars

• Torsion bars, also called sway bars, are actually enormous torsion springs used in the suspension systems of most automobiles. They are designed to ensure that the vehicle can navigate rough roads while providing its passengers a smooth ride.

Balance Springs

• Balance springs, also called hairsprings, are tiny torsion springs used in clocks to push the balance wheel back into its center position as it rotates. Another similar device is the torsion pendulum used in many types of clocks, which consists of a weight that rotates around the axis of a torsion spring, and is then motivated by the energy the spring saves up. Both of these device are critical in the operation of a timepiece.

Double Torsion Springs

• Double torsion springs are made of two coil sections connected together. The two parts each build up their own levels of torque, and the whole unit has a torque level double that of a regular torsion spring.

Loose-Coiled Torsion Springs

• Loose-coiled torsion springs have spaces between each coil in the spring. These torsion springs tend to have a longer working life. Some double torsion springs have spaces between the wires. These spaces are intended to minimize friction.

Tight-Coiled Torsion Springs

• Tight-coiled torsion springs have no spaces between the springs. They are used for static loading situations, that is, for applications when the orientation of the spring is unlikely to change.