Torsion Springs
Verified by Mel Sykes, Industrial Supply Chain Specialist - April 2026
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Types | Single body, double body, close wound, open wound |
| Materials | Music wire (BS 5216), stainless 302, phosphor bronze |
| Standards | BS 1726 Part 2, EN 13906-3 |
| Leg types | Straight, angled, hooked, short hook |
What are Torsion Springs?
Torsion springs are mechanical components designed to resist twisting forces or torques and store rotational energy when compressed or twisted. They find widespread use in a variety of applications such as hinges, clocks, and automotive parts.
Types and Variants
Torsion springs come in several types, each suited for different needs:
- Single Body Springs: These are the simplest form, featuring one coiled body that twists about its axis to apply torque. Single body torsion springs can be used with straight or angled legs.
- Double Body Springs: Containing two separate coils wound together, these provide increased load capacity and stability over single body designs.
- Close Wound Springs: The coil windings are tightly packed, reducing the overall length but increasing resistance to compression forces. They're often made from music wire (BS 5216) for high strength and flexibility.
- Open Wound Springs: Featuring wider spacing between coils, these allow for greater angular deflection compared to close wound springs, making them ideal for applications requiring large rotations.
Materials and Specifications
The choice of material significantly impacts the performance and durability of torsion springs:
- Music Wire (BS 5216): This high-strength spring steel is commonly used for its excellent fatigue resistance. It adheres to BS 5216, ensuring consistent quality across various applications.
- Stainless Steel 302: Known for its corrosion resistance and durability, stainless steel 302 complies with standards such as EN 13906-3, making it suitable for harsh environments like marine or chemical processing plants.
- Phosphor Bronze: With high electrical conductivity and low friction properties, phosphor bronze springs excel in applications where lubrication is difficult to maintain. They comply with BS 1726 Part 2, providing reliable performance across a range of temperatures (-40°C to +150°C).
Selection Criteria
Choosing the right torsion spring involves considering several factors:
- Load Requirements: The torque required should match the application's needs without overloading the spring. A common mistake is selecting springs based solely on size, ignoring load capacity.
- Spring Rate: This determines how much force is applied per degree of twist. Higher rates offer more resistance but may require additional energy to initiate movement.
- Material Grade: The material must withstand environmental conditions and mechanical stresses while providing the necessary strength and durability.
UK Suppliers
MLC lists verified torsion spring suppliers from Companies House, ensuring procurement managers can find reliable sources for their components:
- British Spring & Wire Association (BSW): Offers a directory of members specializing in spring manufacturing.
- Birmingham Industrial and Associated Fasteners Directory (BIAFD): Provides listings for fastener manufacturers including torsion springs.
- BTMA: British Tooling Manufacturers' Association lists toolmakers who also supply precision-engineered components like torsion springs.
Common Applications
Torsion springs are used in numerous applications:
- Hinges and Doors: Provide resistance to opening and closing, ensuring smooth operation. For example, they're important in garage door mechanisms.
- Clocks and Watches: Used in mechanical timepieces to power the escapement mechanism, regulating movement accuracy.
- Automotive Systems: Critical for functions such as seat adjustment mechanisms, door latches, and trunk releases.
- Medical Devices: Found in surgical tools like retractors that need precise control during operations.
Each application requires careful selection of spring type, material, and dimensions to ensure optimal performance.
References
Verified UK Suppliers
| Company | Company No. | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Eco Electric Limited | 05243358 | Unit 3 D, Betton Way, Moreton Hampstead, Devon, TQ |
| Kato-Entex Limited | 02853659 | Glaisdale Drive, Bilborough, Nottingham, NG8 4JY |
| Fb Chain Limited | 01958761 | C/O F B Chain Ltd, Works Road, Letchworth Garden C |
| Springmasters (Scotland) Limited | SC081565 | Unit 95, 44/46 Morningside Road, Edinburgh, EH10 4 |
| Gold Bros. Limited | 02592331 | 336a Regents Park Road, Finchley, London, N3 2LN |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Torsion Springs?
Torsion Springs are engineering components used in industrial applications. Browse verified UK suppliers on MLC.
Where can I buy Torsion Springs in the UK?
MLC lists verified UK torsion springs suppliers with Companies House data. Browse by product category or search by location.
What are Torsion Springs and what are their primary functions?
Torsion springs are mechanical components designed to resist twisting forces or torques. They store rotational energy when compressed or twisted, making them ideal for applications such as hinges, clocks, and automotive parts.
What types of Torsion Springs are available and how do they differ?
Torsion Springs come in single body, double body, close wound, and open wound variants. Single body springs have one coiled body, while double body designs consist of two separate coils for increased load capacity. Close wound springs feature tightly packed coil windings.
How should I choose the right type of Torsion Spring for my application?
Consider your specific needs such as load requirements and space constraints. Single body springs are simpler but may not handle high loads, while double body designs offer higher stability and capacity.
What standards do Torsion Springs adhere to in the UK?
Torsion Springs comply with British Standards BS 1726 Part 2 and European Standard EN 13906-3. These standards ensure quality and performance for various applications.
Which materials are commonly used to manufacture Torsion Springs?
Common materials include music wire (BS 5216), stainless steel type 302, and phosphor bronze. Each material offers different properties like durability or flexibility.
Where can I find reliable UK suppliers for Torsion Springs?
Look for reputable industrial supply chain specialists such as the contributors on mlc.org.uk who provide verified information about sourcing high-quality springs in the UK.
What factors influence the cost and availability of Torsion Springs?
Cost and availability depend on material choice, type (single or double body), production volume, and lead times. Stainless steel springs may be more expensive than music wire options due to higher raw material costs.
Can you provide examples of leg types for Torsion Springs and their uses?
Leg types include straight, angled, hooked, and short hook designs. Straight legs are simple and versatile, while angled or hooked legs offer specific attachment points necessary for particular applications.