What Is a Torsion Spring?
A Torsion Spring is a spring that generates force through rotational motion.
It is a type of coil spring also called a torsion coil spring in Japanese. When torque is applied around the axis of rotation, elastic deformation occurs and a reaction torque is generated. It is characterized by its high space efficiency due to its spiral shape. It can generate a large torque with a relatively small size.
Uses for Torsion Springs
Torsion Springs are used in a wide range of applications, and some familiar ones are used in paper clips and clothespins.
1. Automotive Industry
In the automotive industry, torsion springs are used in cushioning mechanisms (suspensions) and door hinges. In particular, Torsion Springs in door hinges are responsible for holding the door in a stable position when it is open. They are selected for their space efficiency and cost, as they provide reaction force in a compact structure.
2. Building Industry
In the construction industry, springs are used in door hinges, window frames, and garage doors. In particular, it plays a very important role as a spring for opening and closing large garage doors. They are also widely used in furniture such as closet doors.
3. Others
Other uses include beds and operating tables for medical equipment in the medical industry. It is one of the most important parts indispensable to our daily life and industry.
Principle of Torsion Springs
Torsion Spring is a type of spring that generates force through rotational motion. Torsion (twisting) is used to generate torque. It consists of a wire wound in a spiral shape, with one or both ends bent into a hook shape to maintain the spiral shape.
Torsion Springs deform in response to torque applied around the axis of rotation. When torque is applied, the wire twists, generating an elastic force. This elastic force generates a reaction torque in the opposite direction of the applied torque, attempting to return the Torsion Spring to its original shape.
The torque on a Torsion Spring is expressed by the following equation
T=kθ
where T is the torque, k is the stiffness coefficient of the torsion spring, and θ is the torsion spring’s twist angle. Torque and torsion angle are proportional, and the larger the stiffness coefficient of the Torsion Spring, the more torque is generated at the same angle.
Types of Torsion Springs
The type of material used for Torsion Springs is selected based on the environment in which they will be used. Generally, inexpensive steel is used, but stainless steel may be used if corrosion resistance is required. Nickel-titanium alloys and other materials are also used to improve torque.
Tungsten alloys are also manufactured for sectors that require extremely high strength and corrosion resistance, such as the aviation and automotive industries. They are often used in high-temperature and corrosive environments, and are used in medical equipment, spacecraft, and other applications requiring advanced technology.
There are also several types of Torsion Springs depending on their construction. The following is an example of one type of Torsion Spring.
1.Torsion Spring With a Slant Winding
This is a Torsion Spring with the wire wound at an angle. It can generate more torque than a normal Torsion Spring. They are used in automobile suspensions, door hinges, construction materials, etc., where large torque is required.
2. Double Torsion Spring
This spring uses two Torsion Springs at the same time. It can generate higher torque. It is constructed with straight arms at both ends. Double torsion springs are used in situations where greater torque is required, such as large doors.
3. Miniature Torsion Spring
This is a Torsion Spring manufactured in a small size. Products with diameters of a few millimeters or less are also available. They are used in small devices such as wristwatches and electronic devices.
Because they are so small, they are manufactured using thin wires. They require a very high degree of precision and require a very high level of technology to manufacture. They are designed to fit into small spaces and can generate very small torques.