Compression Springs

Verified by Mel Sykes, Industrial Supply Chain Specialist - April 2026

Specification	Details
Materials	Music wire (BS 5216), stainless 302, phosphor bronze, Inconel
Standards	BS 1726, EN 13906
Wire diameters	0.1mm to 50mm
Rate formula	k = Gd4 / (8nD3)

What are Compression Springs?

Compression Springs are mechanical components designed to absorb and store energy when compressed, returning to their original shape once the force is removed. They come in various materials like music wire (BS 5216), stainless steel, phosphor bronze, and Inconel.

Types and Variants

• Helical Compression Spring: Commonly used in machinery for shock absorption. Dimensions range from 0.1mm to 50mm wire diameter.
• Conical Compression Spring: Provides constant load capacity over the length of travel with a conical shape. Typically made from music wire or stainless steel.
• Variable Pitch Compression Spring: Features varying pitch along its length, allowing for specific deflection characteristics at different points. Useful in applications requiring precise control.

Materials and Specifications

Compression Springs are available in several materials:

• Music Wire (BS 5216): High carbon spring steel with excellent elasticity and wear resistance.


• Stainless Steel 302: Corrosion-resistant, suitable for environments where rust is a concern. Complies with BS EN 10088 standard.


• Phosphor Bronze: Provides high corrosion resistance and durability in harsh conditions. Meets BS EN 1652 standards.


• Inconel: High-strength alloy offering excellent heat resistance, ideal for high-temperature applications.

Selection Criteria

Choosing the right Compression Spring involves considering several factors:

• Load Requirements: Determine the required spring load capacity using the formula \( k = \frac{Gd^4}{8nD^3} \), where \( G \) is the shear modulus of the material, \( d \) is the wire diameter, \( n \) is the number of active coils, and \( D \) is the mean coil diameter.


• Material Selection: Base your choice on environmental conditions such as temperature range, corrosion resistance, and mechanical stress. For example, Inconel springs can operate at temperatures up to 900°C.


• Dimensions: Ensure that the spring fits within the space constraints of your application. Common wire diameters range from 0.1mm to 50mm.

UK Suppliers

MLC lists verified suppliers for Compression Springs from Companies House, ensuring all vendors meet industry standards and quality requirements. These suppliers adhere to trade body guidelines like those set by CBM (Compression Spring Manufacturers), BIAFD (British Industrial Fasteners Association), BTMA (Birmingham Trade Millwork Association), and BPMA (British Precision Machined Components Association).

Common Applications

Compression Springs are used in a wide range of applications:

• Automotive Industry: Shock absorbers, seat mechanisms, and door latches.


• Medical Devices: Surgical instruments and prosthetics.


• Construction Equipment: Excavators, cranes, and bulldozers.


• Aerospace Sector: Aircraft landing gears, control systems, and engine components.

For instance, a typical automotive shock absorber uses a helical compression spring with a wire diameter of 2mm and an outside diameter of 30mm. This spring must withstand repeated compressions without failure, ensuring the vehicle's stability during operation.