How the Calculator Works

Springs in Parallel

When springs are arranged side-by-side (parallel), they share the load equally:

Characteristics:

• Total stiffness increases
• Same deflection for all springs
• Force is distributed among springs
• Used to increase load capacity

Springs in Series

When springs are connected end-to-end (series), they experience the same force:

Characteristics:

• Total stiffness decreases
• Same force through all springs
• Total deflection is sum of individual deflections
• Used to increase working range

Mixed Configurations

Complex arrangements combine series and parallel connections:

• Calculate parallel groups first
• Then calculate series combinations
• Work from inside out for nested configurations

Spring Types and Applications

• Compression Springs: Most common, resist compressive forces
• Extension Springs: Resist tensile forces, have initial tension
• Torsion Springs: Resist rotational forces, k in N·m/rad
• Disc Springs: High load capacity in small space, non-linear

Important Considerations

• Spring rate may vary with deflection (non-linear springs)
• Consider coil binding in compression springs
• Account for initial tension in extension springs
• Temperature affects spring stiffness
• Fatigue life depends on stress range

Practical Applications

• Vibration Isolation: Series springs for lower frequency
• Load Sharing: Parallel springs for heavy loads
• Fine Tuning: Mixed configurations for specific characteristics
• Redundancy: Multiple springs for safety