Biconical coil spring

Types of Biconical Coil Spring

A biconical coil spring is a mechanical component made of flexible material, usually steel, and designed to resist compression or tension. The most common type of biconical coil spring is the biconical compression spring, which has two conical ends that reduce the force needed to close the spring. Here are some types of biconical coil springs:

• Biconical Compression Spring:

  The biconical compression spring, also known as the biconical spring, is one of the most common coil springs used in mechanical applications. The spring has two conical ends that face each other, which gives the spring a biconical shape. Biconical compression springs are used in applications where low spring force at the beginning of the stroke and higher spring force at the end of the stroke are required.

• Biconical Tension Spring:

  The biconical tension spring has a biconical shape similar to the biconical compression spring. However, instead of coils closing at the end like the biconical compression spring, the biconical tension spring coils are open and have a loop at the end. The biconical tension spring is used in applications where equal pull force along the length of the spring is needed.

• Biconical Double-Acting Spring:

  As the name suggests, the biconical double-acting spring is a double biconical spring. The coils of the biconical double-acting spring are similar to the biconical compression spring, but the coils are wound in the opposite direction. The biconical double-acting spring is used in applications where pushing and pulling forces are needed.

Specification and Maintenance of Biconical Coil Spring

Specifications of biconical springs vary widely for each spring because they are designed for specific applications. When shopping for a biconical coil spring, consider the following specifications:

• Wire diameter: This is the thickness of the wire used to make the biconical coil spring. It is usually measured in millimeters or inches. The wire diameter affects the strength and flexibility of the spring. A thicker wire results in a stiffer spring, while a thinner wire results in a more flexible spring.
• Spring length: The length of a biconical spring is measured when the spring is not in use. The length of a biconical spring affects its travel distance. A long spring offers a long travel distance, while a short spring has a short travel distance. The spring length is measured in millimeters or inches.
• Load capacity: This is the maximum weight a biconical coil spring can carry. The load capacity is determined by the wire diameter, spring length, and material used to make the spring. Load capacity is measured in pounds or kilograms.
• Material: Biconical coil springs are made from different materials, including stainless steel, music wire, oil-tempered wire, and chrome-silicon wire. Each material has unique properties that suit specific applications. For instance, stainless steel has high corrosion resistance, making it ideal for springs used in humid environments.

Regular maintenance of biconical coil springs is paramount to ensure they work properly and last longer. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Check for rust or corrosion: Biconical springs are mostly made of metal, which can rust or corrode over time. Carry out a visual inspection of the springs to check for corrosion. If there is any corrosion on the spring, clean it with a wire brush.
• Check for physical damage: Carry out a visual inspection of the springs to check for any physical damage, such as cracks or broken coils. Replace any damaged springs.
• Lubrication: Ensure the biconical coil springs are properly lubricated. This helps to reduce friction between the coils and prevents wear and tear. Use a suitable lubricant, such as silicone grease, to ensure the springs are lubricated.
• Load adjustment: Biconical coil springs are used in applications where they are loaded. Regularly check to ensure that the load on the springs is within the manufacturer's recommended load capacity.

How to choose biconical coil springs

Choosing the right biconical coil spring for a specific application can be a complex task. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Force requirements

  Understand the force requirements of the application. Biconical springs are often used in applications requiring progressive spring rates. Determine the minimum and maximum spring forces at the points where the spring will be compressed to select a suitable biconical coil spring.

• Space and size limitations

  Consider the size and dimensions of the biconical spring, including the wire diameter, outside diameter, and spring length. Make sure the spring can fit into the available space and leave enough room for spring deflection.

• Material and corrosion resistance

  Biconical coil springs are usually made from steel wire. If the spring is going to be used in an environment that has high humidity or exposure to chemicals, consider selecting a biconical coil spring made from stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant materials.

• Mounting and installation requirements

  Consider how the biconical coil spring will be mounted and installed in the system. Select a spring that has end configurations (e.g., closed ends, ground ends) and suitable mounting options (e.g., hooks, loops) to meet the installation requirements.

• Application type

  Biconical coil springs are used in various applications, such as automotive suspension systems, machinery, electronics, etc. Consider the specific application requirements, such as load characteristics, working frequency, and environmental conditions, to select a suitable spring.

• Supplier and manufacturer

  Choose a reputable and reliable biconical coil spring manufacturer or supplier. Check the manufacturer's quality certifications (e.g., ISO9001) and customer evaluations to ensure the spring's quality meets the requirements and has a good after-sales service.

How to DIY and Replace Biconical Coil Spring

Replacing large coil springs can be complicated. However, with the right tools and knowledge, a mechanic can carry out the replacement task. Here are some steps to follow:

• Find a flat, level surface and park the vehicle. Then, loosen the lug nuts and jack up the vehicle.
• After removing the wheel, the biconical coil spring will be visible. The mechanic will disconnect it from the control arm and shock absorber.
• Compressing the spring using a spring compressor makes it easy to remove the bushing and mounting nut from the top of the strut.
• Now, the old biconical coil spring can be removed from the strut. Fit the new spring onto the strut and tighten the mounting nut.
• Uncompress the spring and reconnect it to the control arm and shock absorber. Then, the mechanic can fit the wheel and lower the vehicle.

Q&A

Q1: What is a biconical spring used for?

A1: Biconical coil springs are used in various applications, especially in automotive and machinery components, to store energy, absorb shock, and exert force.

Q2: What is the material used to make biconical coil springs?

A2: Biconical coil springs are mostly manufactured using high-carbon steel wire, stainless steel, and music wire. The material chosen is dependent on the application and the required mechanical properties.

Q3: What are the advantages of biconical coil springs

A3: Biconical coil springs have the advantage of compactness, space-saving, and uniform load distribution. They also have a longer lifespan and are less prone to buckling.