Springs are among the most critical components in machinery, equipment, and vehicles. They fulfill essential functions, ensuring both proper operation and, frequently, operational safety. In applications such as automobiles, they also enhance ride comfort. Although primarily associated with mechanics, springs are also found in many pieces of furniture and everyday items—for example, in pens, clothespins, or game controllers. Are you curious about how they are made? This article describes the spring manufacturing process. We invite you to read on.
The manufacturing process for most types of springs is similar
The vast majority of springs are made from wire, and their production process is quite complex, carried out in several stages. This applies to models such as:
- Compression springs – used, for example, in vehicle suspension systems.
- Extension springs – equipped with hooks on both ends, used to connect various components.
- Torsion springs – widely used in various rotary mechanisms.
- Guard springs – serve a protective function (e.g., they are placed over cables in areas prone to frequent bending).
In all the above cases, the first and most crucial stage of production is the selection of the appropriate material. The wire can be made from carbon steel, spring steel, stainless steel, or certain other metal alloys. It is selected primarily based on the spring's expected strength requirements.
Spring Manufacturing Step-by-Step
This process can be divided into 4 basic stages.
- Cutting the wire to the appropriate length and then forming it into the desired shape – this is done using special spring coiling machines.
- Heat treatment – the formed spring is heated in a furnace to achieve the required properties related to strength and elasticity.
- Shot peening – small pellets strike the cooled springs, creating compressive stress in the material, which reduces its susceptibility to cracking.
- Final processing – at this stage, the spring's aesthetics are improved, if required (e.g., through surface galvanizing)..
How are spiral and disc springs made?
In the case of flat springs (power springs), the main difference in the production process is that a steel strip (or band) is used instead of wire. After being cut to the appropriate length, it is also formed using a special machine.
Disc springs, in turn, are made from steel, from which discs of the required diameter are cut. They are then subjected to a press; applying pressure to the material creates a specific profile (convexity) that gives it its elastic properties.
Order high-quality springs from the experienced manufacturer, Spretech
Remember, while the use of modern technologies in the manufacturing process of these components is important, the quality of the materials used is of equal significance. You can order the highest quality springs in many different versions from Spretech – we invite you to explore our offer. We utilize high-grade machinery, use only carefully selected raw materials, and implement a rigorous quality control process for every product we manufacture.