A torsion spring is a type of spring that works by rotating its end along an axis; It is a flexible elastic object that stores mechanical energy when twisted. When twisting, it will apply torque in the opposite direction, proportional to the amount of twisting (angle).

Twisting springs have a wide range of applications, as they can store and release angular energy for various purposes. Here are 10 examples of the position and method of using torsion springs:
Clothes clip and mouse trap:
This may be the most well-known example of a torsion spring. These springs store energy and release energy to clamp clothing or close the mousetrap.
Garage door:
The torsion spring provides the necessary balance force to smoothly and safely lift heavy garage doors.
clocks and watches:
A mechanical device used to control pointer movement and maintain accurate timing.
Automotive industry:
Used for vehicle suspension systems, door hinges, and throttle return mechanisms to ensure smooth operation and control.
Industrial Machinery:
Used for various mechanical components to maintain tension and return the parts to their original position after movement.
Toy industry:
Integrated into the mechanism of a winding toy, used for storing and releasing energy, achieving movement and functionality.
Aerospace industry:
Used for aircraft control surfaces and landing gear systems, providing precise control and reliable operation.
Medical equipment:
Controlling movement and return position is crucial for surgical instruments, inhalers, and other medical tools.
Electronic devices:
Used for switches, relays, and connectors to maintain contact and ensure reliable electrical connections.
These examples illustrate the widespread application of torsion springs and emphasize their importance in daily necessities and specialized industrial equipment.

There are several types:
A torsion bar is a straight rod made of metal or rubber, which undergoes torsion (shear stress) around its axis by applying torque at its end.
A more refined form used for sensitive instruments is called twisted fiber, which is composed of silk, glass, or quartz fibers under tension that twist around their axis.
Spiral torsion spring is a metal rod or wire with a spiral shape (coil) that twists around the axis of the coil by applying a transverse force (bending moment) at its end, thereby making the coil twist tighter.
Clocks use spiral wound torsion springs (a type of spiral torsion spring in which coils are wound around each other instead of stacked), sometimes referred to as "clock springs" or commonly known as main springs. These types of torsion springs are also used for attic ladders, clutches, and other equipment that require almost constant torque for large angles or even multiple rotations.

The working principle of a torsion spring is torsion, which means twisting an object around an axis. When the spring leg rotates around the center, it stores mechanical energy in the form of torque. As long as the material remains within its elastic limit, the amount of torque generated is proportional to the applied torsion angle.
Here is a more detailed explanation:
Twisting effect: Applying force to the spring leg will cause it to twist, thereby increasing the stress inside the coil.
Energy storage: Twisted springs store potential energy due to material deformation.
Anti torsion: The spring applies equal and opposite torque, resisting the applied force and attempting to return to its original position.
Release energy: When the force is eliminated, the spring releases, releasing stored energy and providing rotational force to return the component to its initial position.
An important characteristic of a torsion spring is that its inner and outer diameters undergo slight changes during operation. Twisting the spring leg along the wind direction will reduce its diameter, while twisting the spring leg in the opposite direction will increase its diameter. This behavior must be considered in the design process to prevent the torsion spring from getting stuck on the shaft or rod or interfering with surrounding components.

Heli Spring can manufacture customized torsion springs to meet the exact specifications of all your projects. We provide experienced engineering support from design to production. Choose from a wide range of materials and surface treatment options that will be ideal for your torsion spring design application. In addition, we can provide CAD assisted torsion spring design, government and industry regulatory expertise, and support from prototype to mass production for your project. We offer advanced manufacturing capabilities and multiple options to meet your torque spring manufacturing needs, such as advanced quality control systems, regulatory expertise (including RoHS, REACH, and DFARS), CAD assisted product design, internal prototype production services, and a global supply chain network. Simply request a quote immediately or contact our engineers for design assistance or answer any questions to help you initiate a custom spring project.

Customized surface treatment options
Do we need to perform surface treatment on the torsion spring? We can provide various surface treatment options for your springs, including anodizing, sandblasting, passivation, electropolishing, powder coating, rust prevention, deburring, color coding, laser etching, etc. We also offer torsion spring electroplating with surface treatments including black oxide, cadmium, chromium, gold, nickel, phosphate, tin, and zinc.
As an ISO certified manufacturer of torsion springs, our quality control is second to none. We are proud to provide you with the highest quality spring and torsion spring processing to meet all your application needs.

Dimensions of torsion springs: How to measure torsion springs
The correct size is crucial for determining the spring that is suitable for your application. Use the following steps and chart to accurately measure your torsion spring.
Dimensions of torsion spring
Hold the spring with one hand and the caliper with the other hand.
Place the "teeth" of the caliper on the inner diameter. This is called the inner diameter (ID).
Place the caliper on the "leg" to measure the wire. This is called material size (or wire diameter).
Place the caliper on the working coil of the spring. This is called body length. Place the caliper on the working coil of the spring. This is called body length.
Calculate the total number of twists, starting from one end where the leg leaves the body. Calculate to the other end, all complete winding times, and any part of them. This is called the number of turns and determines the position of the legs. That is, 90 °, 180 °, etc.
Determine the direction of the coil (wind direction). Right hand wind or left hand wind.

Twisting springs are the unsung heroes in the mechanical world, providing the necessary torque to keep machinery and equipment running smoothly. Choosing the appropriate material for the torsion spring is crucial to ensure its reliable operation in the expected application. By understanding the characteristics and considering factors such as load requirements, operating environment, and cost, engineers and manufacturers can make wise choices and design torsion springs that meet their specific project needs. Whether in the automotive industry, aerospace, manufacturing, or everyday household appliances, torsion springs silently but effectively play a crucial role in our daily lives.