A compression spring is a type of spring that works by compressing or pushing back when force is applied on it. It is one of the most commonly used springs in various industries due to its simplicity and versatility. The main function of a compression spring is to store energy and release it when needed.

Compression springs are made from a variety of materials including steel, stainless steel, titanium, and various alloys. The choice of material depends on the application and the level of corrosion resistance required. The springs can be manufactured in various shapes and sizes and can be designed with a variety of end configurations including closed and open ends.

The spring rate of a compression spring is defined as the amount of force required to compress the spring a certain distance. This is an important factor in determining the spring's ability to support weight and how it will respond to different loads. The spring rate can be adjusted by changing the wire diameter, the number of coils, and the spacing between the coils.

Compression springs can be found in a wide range of applications including automotive suspension systems, medical devices, household appliances, and many others. They are often used in devices that require a force to be applied over a short distance, such as a mouse click. They are also commonly used in the aerospace industry to provide damping in control systems.

When designing a compression spring, it is important to consider the load and travel requirements, as well as the operating environment. The spring must be designed to withstand the maximum load that it will be subjected to, as well as the environment in which it will be used. For example, if the spring will be used in a high temperature environment, the material must be able to withstand the heat.

The compression spring's end configuration is another important factor to consider. A closed end compression spring is tightly coiled and the ends are formed together, making it more suitable for applications where the spring will be subject to axial loads. An open end compression spring has the ends of the coils separated, allowing for more flexibility and making it more suitable for applications where the spring will be subject to radial loads.

One important aspect of designing a compression spring is to ensure that it does not experience permanent set or plastic deformation when subjected to a load. This can be achieved by designing the spring with the appropriate number of coils and wire diameter.

In conclusion, compression springs are versatile and commonly used springs that can be found in a wide range of applications. They are designed to store energy and release it when needed and can be made from a variety of materials depending on the application and level of corrosion resistance required. The spring rate, end configuration, and operating environment are important factors to consider when designing a compression spring. With proper design and engineering, compression springs can provide reliable performance for many years.