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The function of coil spring in a vehicle is to support its weight and absorb shocks. It is one of the most important components of the suspension system. There are different types of coil spring, each of which has its own characteristics:
Constant Coils
This spring has a uniform wire diameter all through its active coils. It is used in applications that need a steady spring rate.
Variable Pitch Coil Spring
In this coil spring, the wire diameter is the same, but the pitch is different. The active coils in this spring have varying distances. It is used in applications that need gradual or progressive spring rates.
Progressive Coil Spring
The wire diameter in this coil spring is not uniform. It varies in size, and there is a constant coil pitch. This spring is used in applications that require progressive spring rates.
Barrel Spring
This coil spring has a barrel-shaped spring body. It is used in applications such as motorcycles and auto vehicles.
Conical Spring
The coils of this spring are in a conical shape. It is used in applications that require a compact spring.
Torsion Spring
This coil spring stores rotational energy. It is used in applications such as door locks, watches, and toys.
Square Spring
This spring has a square cross-section. It is used in applications such as industrial machinery and heavy lifting.
Uniform Coil Spring
This spring has a uniform pitch and wire diameter. It is used in applications that require low spring force.
Multi-Turn Spring
This coil spring has multiple active coils that turn continuously. It is used in applications such as clock mechanisms and measuring instruments.
The specifications of coil springs differ depending on their use in various machinery parts. Here are some general specifications of the coil spring:
Coil spring material
The material used to manufacture a coil spring affects its durability and the function of coil spring. Generally, coil springs are made of stainless steel. The steel is resistant to corrosion and has a high-strength level. Manufacturers also use music wire to create coil springs. Music wire has a higher tensile strength than steel. Lastly, some coil springs are manufactured using oil-tempered steel wire. The oil-tempered steel wire has a high strength level and is used in heavy-duty coil springs.
Coil spring diameter
The coil spring has two types of diameters that determine its function. The coil diameter is the measurement of the wire, while the pitch diameter is the measurement of the coil's center. The diameter affects the spring's force and rate.
Coil spring loops
The number of loops in a coil spring also determines its function. A coil spring with more loops has a lighter spring rate. The loops in a coil spring affect its compression level.
Coil spring length
The length of a coil spring determines its application. A long coil spring is used in applications that require a longer spring stroke. Coil springs used in short compression have a shorter length.
Coil spring wire size
The size of the wire used to create a coil spring affects its spring rate. Larger wires create stiffer springs with a high spring rate.
It is important to maintain the coil spring to ensure it lasts longer and functions properly. Here are the dos and don'ts of maintaining a coil spring:
Check the spring regularly for any signs of damage or wear. Ensure the coil spring is properly fitted on the machinery to prevent unwanted noises and vibrations. Lubricate the coil spring during maintenance to reduce friction between the coils. Follow the manufacturer's guidance on using and maintaining the coil spring.
Avoid overloading the machinery parts where the coil spring is fitted. Don't attempt to repair a severely damaged coil spring. This can cause further damage and accidents. Don't ignore any signs of damage in the coil spring.
Choosing the right coil spring for a vehicle requires careful consideration of several key factors, such as the spring's wire diameter, coil diameter, number of active coils, and spring material.
Wire diameter: The thickness of the spring wire affects its stiffness. A coil spring with a larger wire diameter is more rigid and less flexible than one with a smaller diameter. However, springs with stiffer wires may not absorb bumps well. Buyers must consider the intended use when selecting the wire diameter. For example, a heavy truck used for hauling loads may require a stiffer spring, while a passenger car can get by with a spring that has a smaller wire diameter.
Coil diameter: The coil diameter works hand-in-hand with the wire diameter to determine the stiffness of the spring. A large coil diameter creates a softer spring, while a small coil diameter produces a stiffer spring. Again, coil diameter selection depends on the intended use of the vehicle. For example, off-road vehicles require a coil spring with a larger diameter to navigate rough terrain without damaging the vehicle. On the other hand, sports cars that need more road grip for safety purposes can do with a smaller coil diameter.
Number of active coils: Coil springs have several coils, but not all coils contribute to suspension action. The active coils are the ones that compress and expand during suspension movement. A spring with more active coils feels softer and delivers a softer spring rate. On the other hand, a spring with fewer active coils offers a stiffer spring rate. Vehicle owners may want to change the number of active coils depending on the desired suspension feel. For a sportier drive with improved handling, buyers can choose a coil spring with fewer active coils.
Spring material: Coil springs are mainly made of steel, though other materials are available. Steel coil springs are durable, corrosion resistant, and suitable for high-stress applications, making them the most popular choice. However, springs made of other materials, such as titanium, are lighter and can handle more stress. Coil springs with nylon material are low maintenance and long-lasting, but they cannot handle high-stress applications.
Replacing a car's coil spring is a complicated task that requires mechanical knowledge. It is advised to have a professional replace the coil spring. However, it is possible to change the coil spring by following the necessary steps. Before replacing a coil spring, ensure that the correct tools are available. This includes a coil spring compressor, jack, jack stands, wrench, and sockets. Having the right replacement parts is also necessary. This could be a new coil spring that is compatible with the vehicle.
To replace a coil spring, first loosen the lug nuts on the vehicle's tires. After that, the car should be jacked up, and the jack stands should be placed under the vehicle to keep it stable. The tire is then removed, and the suspension components are freed up by unbolting the upper control arm and sway bar links. At this point, the coil spring compressor can be used to relieve tension on the spring by compressing it. The old coil spring can now be removed. Before installing the new coil spring, ensure that the seat is clean and free of debris. Then, the new spring is compressed using the compressor to fit it into the spring seats. The compressor is then removed, and the upper control arm and sway bar links are bolted back. Finally, the tire is fixed back on the vehicle, and the lug nuts are tightened.
Coil spring boosters and bags are other ways to enhance a vehicle's suspension. They are easy to install and provide quick fixes for sagging springs. When installing coil spring boosters, follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure proper installation and safety.
Q1: What are coil springs made of?
A1: Coil springs are primarily made of steel. However, they can also be made from other metallic materials like titanium, which is rarer. The spring is usually coated with a corrosion-resistant layer for durability.
Q2: What is the difference between a coil spring and a leaf spring?
A2: A coil spring is a spring with a helical shape, and it is mostly used in modern vehicles. A leaf spring is a spring made of several metal strips joined together to form a spring. Leaf springs are used in older vehicles and are mostly used to support the vehicle's weight and provide stability.
Q3: Do all vehicles have coil springs?
A3: No, not all vehicles have coil springs. Vehicles like trucks and some models of SUVs use leaf springs. However, most modern passenger cars and motorcycles use coil springs.
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