Tension springs are some of the most commonly used springs in a range of applications, from simple to complex. Although they have a simple construction, their role is immensely important in any application, and without these springs, many products will not function, or even if they will, they will suffer a breakdown very soon. In this blog, we will take an in-depth look at how tension springs enhance automotive performance and why their use is crucial in automotive design.
Tension spring is also known as extension springs. Unlike compression springs these springs are arranged in a manner to be pulled rather than compressed. Tension spring give resistance to a pulling force. Once a force is applied the spring acts to return to the former shape and length. The tension springs are usually made of wound coil which has an elastic quality. Let us see how the properties of tension spring contributes to better performance and reliability of the automotive system.
Tension springs are an integral part of the suspension system of any car. They function as shock absorbers when the car encounters bumps on the road. The result is a smooth ride where the driver does not have to encounter too many bumps. The springs are also important for the smooth handling of the vehicle as they are the part that connects the tire with the chassis and road. This makes the turning of the car responsive, which is crucial during high-speed driving.
Compression springs are also used in the suspension system to deliver a more uniform weight distribution of the car’s weight between its four wheels. The equal sharing of weight between the wheels enables the driver to handle the car much more easily and makes the car more stable during driving. Stability is vital for bulky vehicles like trucks and SUVs. In trucks, the springs should be sturdy enough to bear heavy loads.
Apart from the suspension system, tension springs also play an important role in the operation of the vehicle engine. These springs regulate the air intake which is the part of the core process of combustion. These springs help control the intake and exhaust valves, ensuring they open and close at the right time to regulate the speed of combustion.
In engine functionality, timing the air intake is crucial for a better performance. A precision needs to maintained in opening and closing of the valves so that a fixed quantity of air enters combustion chamber. This precision is important in maintaining efficient fuel consumption and minimizing carbon emissions. Failure of springs to perform the task means the engine misfires and the result is less power output.
Efficient braking is crucial not only to stop the car but also to drive around corners, and tension springs have an important function to play in braking as they help disengage the braking pads during driving. In disc brakes, these springs are used to disconnect brake pads once the brake pedal is released, the excessive dragging on the disc surface can prematurely wear out the brakes, and brake springs prevent this by disconnecting the brake pads. Timely disconnection cuts down on unnecessary friction, which can damage the brakes.
Tension springs are also used in seat adjustment mechanism in the vehicle and make comfortable seating possible for drivers and passengers. From fasteninf the backrest in a particular position or sliding the seat forward or backward, these springs help the driver recline the seat or sit upright.
Tension springs are used in diverse applications that have significantly different inner mechanisms, tension springs are constructed from various materials based on the application and the tension force needed to match the function. Durability is a central property that is essential for springs since spring components tend to be used continuously in the inner workings of any machinery. Common metals that are used in the construction of springs are:
Stainless Steel: This is a long-lasting material that is rust-resistant and excellent for spring construction.
Low Alloy Steel: This steel type made from a combination of nickel and chromium and is much cheaper to produce than stainless steel. It is widely use to produce mechanical springs as it can easily be welded.
Copper Alloys: Springs that require good electrical conductivity such as battery springs are made from copper alloys as it is ductile and does not corrode and also has a high strength.
Titanium Alloys: This material is known for its exceptional tensile strength. Also, its lightweight and resistant to corrosion. It can also handle extreme temperature makes it a suitable material for prodcuction of springs for advanced machinery.
The important role of tension springs shows how useful they are in many industries. Tension spring's flexibility and energy retention capabilities, act as essential elements in automotive systems. Their capacity to effectively store and discharge energy and direct that energy precisely is their specialty. In vehicle performance, the intensive processes can wear out the springs, so buying low-grade springs should be avoided.
