Types of Springs – Simple Descriptions

Leaf springs: A leaf spring is a bowed piece of metal, most often used in suspension systems. The center of the spring attaches to a fixture, while the two ends of the spring are attached to another fixture. The spring-tempered material flexes with the flexing of the device, which absorbs much of the shock. Flat springs: Flat springs are the original form of spring. Historically, flat springs were invented to control simple machines and clocks. Many times, flat springs have a coil-like shape. The flat spring can wind tight or unwind to control different elements in a machine, such as a clock's hands. Compression springs: A compression spring is the original name of coil spring. Compression springs are used everywhere, from mattresses to pens. Torsion springs: A torsion spring is a spring with two pieces of metal sticking out from either end of the coil body. Torsion springs are often used in opening mechanisms, such as lids, doors, and other containers. Extension (hook) springs: These are designed to hook two different objects together. The spring then controls the movement of the objects. The most classic use of a hook spring is with automatic door closures, such as screen doors, and trampolines.