AdvancedTopic 90 of 106Engineering Mechanics

Springs

Store energy elastically; helical spring rate k=Gd⁴/8D³N.

In depth

Helical compression spring stiffness k=Gd⁴/(8D³N). Shear stress τ=K·8FD/(πd³) with Wahl factor K. Springs store energy ½kx² and can be in series or parallel. Fatigue and buckling are design concerns.

Key points

  • Spring index C=D/d
  • Leaf, torsion, disc springs
  • Natural frequency (surge)
Example

A suspension spring supports the car while allowing wheel travel.

Why it matters

Springs store energy and provide controlled force, so they are used in suspensions, valves, clutches and mechanisms.

Where this is used

  • Choosing a coil spring to hold a valve closed with a set force.
  • Designing a suspension spring for a given ride stiffness.
  • Specifying a compression spring for a spring-loaded latch.

Frequently asked questions

What is Springs?

Store energy elastically; helical spring rate k=Gd⁴/8D³N.

Why is it important to understand springs?

Springs store energy and provide controlled force, so they are used in suspensions, valves, clutches and mechanisms.

What is the spring rate?

It is the force per unit deflection, k. A higher rate gives a stiffer spring.

Why does a spring coil wind affect the rate?

Rate depends strongly on wire diameter and coil diameter, with the fourth and third powers, so small changes in geometry have large effects.

How is Springs used in practice?

Typical applications include choosing a coil spring to hold a valve closed with a set force, designing a suspension spring for a given ride stiffness and specifying a compression spring for a spring-loaded latch.

What should I learn before Springs?

Study "Bearings" first (topic 89 of 106 in Engineering Mechanics). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.

What are the key points of Springs?

Spring index C=D/d. Leaf, torsion, disc springs. Natural frequency (surge).

Can you give an example of Springs?

A suspension spring supports the car while allowing wheel travel.

What comes after Springs?

The next topic is "Fasteners and bolted joints", which builds directly on this one.

How difficult is Springs?

It is classed as Advanced in Engineering Mechanics (topic 90 of 106). It is an advanced topic. It assumes you are comfortable with the intermediate topics in Engineering Mechanics.

Learning path

Want to practise? Open the interactive course for quick checks, quizzes, simulations and progress tracking.

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