Get unique, complex parts easily. No matter your requirements, Chaoyi Spring creates hard-to-produce coil springs and wire forms.
Let us help you create the custom wire form you need, from S-hooks and J-hooks to utility hooks and more.
We work closely with customers across a wide range of industries, helping them design and manufacture made-to-order parts.
Why choose Chaoyi Spring? We prioritize customer-focused collaboration, modern equipment and the latest technology to make your parts per print.
Find the information and guidance you need, from measuring a spring to learning about materials, placing an order and much more.
Arc springs, also known as pre-curved helical compression springs, are a unique type of spring that boasts exceptional strength and versatility. They're designed with a pre-curved or arc-shaped helical form,
Arc springs, also known as pre-curved helical compression springs, are a unique type of spring that boasts exceptional strength and versatility. They're designed with a pre-curved or arc-shaped helical form, allowing them to transmit torque around an axis. This distinct feature sets them apart from traditional coil springs and opens up a range of possibilities in diverse applications. From automotive engineering to aerospace design, arc springs have proven their worth in demanding environments, contributing to reliable performance and exceptional durability. In this in-depth guide, we'll explore the fundamentals of arc springs, delving into their construction, operation, advantages, and applications. We'll also examine the factors that influence their selection and design, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of this valuable spring type.
Arc springs, as their name suggests, are helical compression springs with a distinct arc-shaped configuration. This pre-curvature is the defining characteristic that differentiates them from conventional coil springs. The arc shape allows them to transmit torque around an axis, adding a unique dimension to their functionality. This torque transmission capability makes them ideal for applications that require both compression and rotation.
The construction of an arc spring begins with a coiled wire, similar to traditional coil springs. However, the key difference lies in the pre-curving process, where the coil is deliberately bent into an arc shape. This curvature introduces a pre-stress into the spring, influencing its behavior under load.
When an axial load is applied to an arc spring, it compresses, just like a conventional coil spring. However, due to the pre-curvature, the spring also rotates around its axis. This rotation is proportional to the applied load, making arc springs ideal for applications where both linear and rotational motion are required.
Arc springs offer a compelling combination of advantages that make them highly desirable in various applications. These advantages stem from their unique construction and operational characteristics.
The pre-curvature in arc springs contributes to their exceptional load capacity. The inherent pre-stress in the spring material allows it to withstand higher loads compared to traditional coil springs with similar dimensions.
Arc springs, due to their pre-curved shape, can be designed to fit into smaller spaces. This compactness is advantageous in applications where space is limited, such as in automotive components or aerospace systems.
The ability to transmit torque around an axis is a defining feature of arc springs. This makes them ideal for applications that require both compression and rotation, such as in door hinges, spring-loaded latches, and rotary actuators.
Arc springs can be designed with variable spring rates, meaning that the force required to compress the spring changes throughout its compression cycle. This feature allows for precise control over the spring's response in specific applications.
Arc springs find a wide range of applications across various industries, thanks to their versatility and unique properties. Here's a glimpse into some of their prominent use cases:
In the automotive industry, arc springs are used in suspension systems, door hinges, spring-loaded latches, and seat mechanisms. Their high load capacity and compact size make them ideal for handling the stresses and space constraints of vehicle components.
Arc springs are vital components in aerospace engineering, where they play a crucial role in landing gear systems, actuators, and spring-loaded mechanisms. Their reliability and durability make them essential for ensuring safety and performance in demanding environments.
Arc springs find their way into numerous consumer products, such as spring-loaded retractable pens, bottle openers, and toy mechanisms. Their compact size and smooth operation make them suitable for everyday use.
When designing arc springs, several critical factors influence their performance and suitability for specific applications. Understanding these factors is essential to ensure that the spring meets the required specifications.
The choice of material for an arc spring is crucial, as it determines the spring's strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Spring steel is the most common material, but other materials like phosphor bronze, titanium, and beryllium copper are used for specific requirements.
The wire diameter and coil diameter play a significant role in the spring's stiffness and load capacity. A thicker wire diameter and smaller coil diameter lead to a stiffer spring, while a thinner wire diameter and larger coil diameter result in a softer spring.
The angle of the arc determines the spring's rotation under load. A larger arc angle will result in more rotation for a given load, while a smaller arc angle will produce less rotation.
The end design of the arc spring affects its ability to connect with other components. Different end configurations are available, such as hooks, eyes, and flanges, depending on the specific application.
Arc springs, with their unique pre-curved design, offer a compelling set of advantages that make them a versatile and valuable component in various engineering applications. Their high load capacity, compact size, torque transmission capability, and variable spring rates make them suitable for diverse tasks, from automotive systems to aerospace components. Understanding the factors that influence their design and selection is crucial to ensure that they meet the specific requirements of each application.
Arc springs stand as a testament to the ingenuity of spring design, demonstrating that even simple modifications can yield significant advantages. Their pre-curved form, with its inherent torque transmission, adds a layer of functionality that expands their applicability to a wide range of industries. As engineering continues to advance, arc springs will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping future innovations, contributing to the development of more efficient, compact, and robust systems.
Browse some of the custom wire forms and springs that we manufacture. Don’t see what you need? We specialize in made-to-order products that meet your application requirements.
Visit Our GalleryNeed a custom wire form or coil spring? We make it work. Fill out the contact form and a representative will respond within 1 business day. If you have a PDF or CAD file, you can submit to request a quote.