Mechanical springs are elastic components used to store energy and absorb shock.

Here is a summary of the main types of mechanical springs:

1. Compression Springs

• Description: These are the most common type of springs. They are designed to compress under a load, storing energy in the process.
• Shape: Usually cylindrical but can also be conical, hourglass, or barrel-shaped.
• Applications: Found in various applications like pens, valves, and suspension systems.

2. Extension Springs

• Description: These springs are designed to operate with a tensile load, meaning they extend or elongate when a force is applied.
• Shape: Helical with hooks, loops, or end coils.
• Applications: Used in applications where components need to be pulled together, such as in garage doors and trampolines.

3. Torsion Springs

• Description: Torsion springs work by twisting their ends around an axis. They exert a rotational force (torque) when twisted.
• Shape: Helical coil; can have various end configurations like straight legs or hooks.
• Applications: Commonly found in clothes pegs, clipboards, and vehicle doors.

4. Constant Force Springs

• Description: Made from a strip of pre-stressed metal wound tightly on itself, these springs exert a nearly constant force over their range of motion.
• Shape: Flat coil.
• Applications: Ideal for applications requiring a consistent force over a long distance, such as counterbalancing, cable retractors, and toys.

5. Variable Force Springs

• Description: Similar to constant force springs but designed to change the force output throughout their extension or compression.
• Shape: Custom designs tailored to specific applications.
• Applications: Used where the force needs to vary with position, like in special machinery or ergonomic adjustments.

6. Leaf Springs

• Description: Composed of several layers of metal (leaves) bound together, leaf springs are used primarily for their load-bearing capabilities and shock absorption.
• Shape: Arc-shaped stack of metal strips.
• Applications: Widely used in vehicle suspension systems, especially in lorries and vans.

7. Disc Springs (Belleville Springs)

• Description: These are conical-shaped washers that can be stacked in various configurations to provide different load capacities and deflection characteristics.
• Shape: Conical disc.
• Applications: Used in applications requiring high load capacities in a small space, like in clutches and bolt preloading.

8. Gas Springs

• Description: These springs use compressed gas contained within a cylinder to exert force. They provide smooth motion and are often adjustable.
• Shape: Cylinder with a rod extending from one end.
• Applications: Found in adjustable office chairs, hatchbacks, and industrial machinery.

9. Wave Springs

• Description: Made of flat wire, these springs are designed to operate in tight spaces where they can exert a load in a small axial space.
• Shape: Flattened, wave-like coil.
• Applications: Used in applications requiring space savings, like bearing preload and compact electrical devices.

10. Die Springs

• Description: Designed to withstand high stress, die springs are often used in heavy-duty applications. They are stronger than traditional compression springs.
• Shape: Helical coil with square or rectangular cross-section.
• Applications: Primarily used in die machinery, heavy-duty presses, and injection moulds.

11. Rubber Springs (Elastomeric Springs)

• Description: Made from rubber or synthetic materials, these springs absorb shock and vibration while providing flexible load-bearing capabilities.
• Shape: Various shapes like cylindrical, conical, or rectangular blocks.
• Applications: Common in vibration isolation mounts and various automotive applications.

Each type of spring has unique characteristics suited to specific applications, providing versatility in engineering and design.