Getting to Know Spring Terminology

Success with springs begins with specifying the right spring for your application. When ordering springs, it is important to have a clear understanding of spring terminology. A knowledge of the descriptive terms used in the spring industry will help you in communicating exactly what you need when placing an order, or simply describing what you need to your spring vender.

To get you started, here are some of the more commonly used descriptors that you will encounter in spring terminology:

Active Coils – Those coils which are free to deflect under load.

Body Length – The length of an extension spring in the unloaded position for the coiled part only.

Close Wound – Coiled with adjacent coils touching.

Elastic Limit – Maximum stress to which a material may be subjected without permanent set.

Free Length – The length of a compression spring in the unloaded position.

Initial Tension – The force that tends to keep the coils of an extension spring closed and which must be overcome before the coils start to open.

Load – The force applied to a spring that causes a deflection.

Pitch – The distance from center to center of the wire in adjacent active coils.

Ready to learn more spring terminology? W.B. Jones has compiled an extensive glossary of spring terms, offering you a handy reference for getting acquainted with the most widely used spring language.

As a knowledgeable and experienced spring manufacturer, our goal is not only to supply spring users with the highest quality springs, but also to offer our customers the best support and service. Our team is available to assist you in understanding everything you need to know about your spring options. Contact us to discuss your project!