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About plastic spring coil

Types of plastic spring coil

Plastic spring coils come in many forms, each suited to different applications and requirements. These lightweight yet durable springs are widely used across industries, including automotive, electronics, and manufacturing, due to their versatility. Below are the most common types of plastic spring coils and their key characteristics.

Compression Springs

Plastic compression springs are designed to resist axial loads. These springs compress when a load is applied and store potential energy. Common uses of plastic compression springs can be found in cushioning systems, electronics, assembly applications, and often in areas where metal springs might be affected by corrosion or magnetic interference in cars, appliances, and electronic devices.

The dimensions of plastic compression springs can vary greatly depending on their intended use – usually between 5 mm and 50 mm in diameter. Common types of plastics used are PEEK, nylon, and polypropylene, which have excellent load-bearing capabilities. It is worth noting that these materials are always resistant to chemicals and corrosion.

Tension Springs

Plastic tension springs are designed to absorb pulling forces. They are used in applications requiring a force to pull or stretch; these springs help maintain slack while providing necessary resistance.

Common applications include hanging signs and in safety barriers. The size of tension springs also greatly varies. The usual ones are 10 mm to 80 mm in length, while the extension length can be from a few millimetres to several centimetres. Most tension springs have hooks or eyelets on their ends for easy attachment.

Torsion Springs

A plastic torsion spring is designed to store and release rotational energy. It works by twisting it through a torque angle. These springs are usually applied in situations where a rotational force is needed. It can be seen in lid holding devices and in various locking mechanisms.

Regarding dimensions, torsion springs can precisely be manufactured to fit specific spaces in a given assembly. This makes size consistency harder to define. Plastic torsion springs are primarily produced using nylon and acetal, which can endure repeated twisting motions.

Extension Springs

Plastic extension springs are made to absorb and store energy. As the name suggests, extension springs are designed to withstand pulling forces. They help keep items tight or secured by adding tension in situations where two components need to be held apart.

Commonly found in protective equipment, fencing, and agricultural systems, tension springs are usually manufactured in either durable nylon or polyethylene materials. These offer high elasticity. Certain extension springs are also fitted with a plastic coating to add supplementary protection and durability. In general, the choice of material and coating for all extension springs can be based on the kind of environment they are expected to operate in.

Features of plastic spring coil

Plastic spring coils have many unique features that differentiate them from other kinds of metal springs. These features enable their widespread usage in many industries, such as automotive, mechanical, and electronic.

Corrosion Resistance

The corrosion resistance of plastic spring coils is one of their most notable features. While metal springs are sensitive to rust in high-humidity areas or environments where chemicals can be easily found, plastic springs endure such conditions. For this reason, these springs are widely used in such industries as automotive, chemical processing, and medical equipment, among others.

Lightweight Construction

Another very notable feature is that plastic spring coils are very lightweight. These coils are made of lots of different kinds of plastic materials, which are several times lighter than metals. This makes it possible for them to be used in such applications as electronic gadgets and aerospace parts. Any weight reduction in these two places can significantly enhance their overall productivity.

Low Maintenance

Plastic spring coils are extremely low maintenance. They do not need frequent l**ubrication** or any other form of treatment commonly required for metal springs. This is often very helpful in mechanical systems where it is hard to reach. Besides, plastic springs also have very high resistance to chemical attacks. This includes resistance to acids, bases, and solvents. This is one of the reasons why these types of springs are preferred in the chemical processing and medical industries.

Electromagnetic Neutrality

Plastic spring coils are **electromagnetic** neutrals. They do not conduct electricity, making them useful in electronic appliances where electromagnetic interference might cause undesired effects. They are also ideal for applications in magnetic-sensitive components or devices.

Insulation Properties

Lastly, plastic spring coils have excellent insulation properties. Plastic materials do not conduct electric currents. That means these springs have a special place in electrical appliances and devices. Further, their relative coefficient makes them a good choice as a spring material in areas where magnetic stability is desired and where metal may cause interference.

How to Choose plastic spring coil

The right plastic coil springs for a given application require careful consideration. Buyers should focus on various factors, such as the specific requirements of the applications, the spring characteristics, and the manufacturers' reliability.

Below are several criteria to consider before making a decision.

Material Composition

Different plastics have unique mechanical and thermal properties. Commonly used materials for plastic spring coils are nylon, acetal, and PEEK. Each of these materials has specific advantages. Nylon, for instance, offers good wear resistance and elasticity. Acetal, on the other hand, has a very high stiffness and strength ratio, which makes it more durable under mechanical stresses. PEEK is a high-performance plastic resistant to extreme temperatures and chemicals.

Load and Application Requirements

All buyers have to consider the type of load the coil spring will be subjected to in different applications. For example, compression springs have to bear axial loads. On the other hand, tension springs work by pulling or stretching forces. Conversely, torsion springs are used in applications requiring rotational forces. Plastic coil springs are versatile and can be widely used in electronics, automotive, and aerospace applications. All buyers have to understand their clients' needs to source the right springs.

Customization Options

Buyers should also consider whether custom-made springs will be needed. In some cases, the plastic coil spring dimensions may have to be adjusted to ensure they fit specific spaces within a system. It is particularly true for torsion springs, which require precise applications. Many reputable manufacturers provide customisation services. They use advanced machinery to manufacture springs that meet precise specifications.

Supplier Reliability

All buyers should do business with trustworthy suppliers. All they have to do is ensure that the manufacturer is well-rated and has experience producing high-quality plastic coil springs. Therefore, it will be highly beneficial if they solicit feedback from other users and review all the available testimonials. Further, all users also need to ensure the manufacturer provides a consistent supply of springs. It is especially crucial for businesses requiring ongoing production to meet their customers' needs.

Benefits of plastic spring coil

Plastic coil springs have gained acceptance and popularity in many industries. The smooth and continuous shapes of plastic coil springs make them indispensable components in diverse applications. These springs offer distinct benefits that make them supremely advantageous in various settings.

High Corrosion Resistance

The first big benefit of plastic coil springs is their exceptional resistance to corrosion. Unlike metal springs that easily rust when exposed to moisture or harsh chemicals, plastic springs withstand adverse environmental conditions.

Lightweight Design

This spring's most notable and remarkable feature is its very lightweight construction. Plastic is a denser material than metal, which means these springs are lighter in weight. This makes them ideal for applications where every single weight reduction counts. An example is in the **aerospace** and electronic industries. These two industries often require lightweight components to enhance functionality. Also, their low weight exhausts the need for heavy machinery when handling or installing them.

Longevity and Durability

Plastic coil springs are very highly durable. They have a longer lifespan since they are not vulnerable to rust or corrosion, as mentioned before. Additionally, many plastics used in these springs have very high chemical resistance, further protecting them from environmental degradation. High-quality materials such as PEEK and nylon can endure extreme temperatures and repeated loading, enhancing the springs' longevity.

Low Maintenance Requirements

The other big benefit of plastic coil springs is that they do not require any maintenance, so they are very low maintenance. Unlike metal springs that often need regular treatment, such as lubrication to prevent rust and maintain functionality, plastic springs need no maintenance at all. This is very advantageous in applications where accessing the spring for maintenance is hard. Further, these springs are frequently found in the medical and aerospace fields, where low maintenance is greatly desired.

Cost-Effectiveness

Plastic coil springs are very cost-effective. Although the initial cost of metal springs can be low, over time, the need for maintenance, coupled with the springs' frequent replacements, can add a lot of costs. Having metal springs wear down faster than their plastic counterparts also makes plastic springs more economically viable. Moreover, in many cases, their longer lifespan counts as a cost-saving for the users.

Q&A

What are plastic spring coils made of?

Plastic spring coils are often constructed of nylon, acetal, and polypropylene. All of these plastics have very high elasticity and fatigue resistance, making them suitable for spring applications. Further, these materials are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, enhancing the springs' overall performance and longevity.

What are the plastic spring coils' common uses?

Users widely use plastic spring coils in electronic gadgets to provide flexibility and durability. They are also commonly used in such industries as automotive, medical devices, and aerospace components. Their high corrosion resistance makes them particularly desirable for such applications in chemical processing and outdoor equipment.

Do plastic spring coils have any electromagnetic resistance?

Yes, plastic spring coils have resistance to electromagnetism. They do not conduct electric current, so they can be used in electrical appliances where metal springs might interfere with electromagnetic fields. Additionally, their insulating properties make them ideal for applications requiring resistance to electrical discharge.

Are plastic spring coils eco-friendly?

Some plastic spring coils are produced using eco-friendly materials, notably bioplastics. These materials do degrade with time, reducing their environmental impact. However, the most common plastics used today, although durable, take a lot of time to break down. Therefore, the environmental impact of plastic coils is high.

How can users enhance the lifespan of plastic spring coils?

To increase the longevity of plastic spring coils, users should operate the springs within the specified temperature and load ranges. Too much stress or extreme temperatures can harm the material. Also, avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals not resistant to the coil's material will help maintenance lengthen their lifespan.