Torsion Spring

Whereas compression and extension springs absorb energy by being either shortened or stretched along their length, Torsion springs store mechanical energy through the twisting of the spring body itself. This means that both the load applied to and released by a torsion spring is a torque. When a torsion spring is released this torque causes the spring's ends to rotate at an angle. Conversely, such a torsion spring is 'loaded' by having its ends rotated around its axis. There are two main subtypes of torsion springs: Helical torsion springs are metal coils that have been tightened along a central axis by the application of sideways forces, while torsion bars are fibers that have been twisted along an axis at their ends. Energy exerted in the twisting or setting of both is released as torque.

Stanley torsion springs come in thicknesses from .008 - .188, with multiple leg bends in any direction. Materials include hard drawn wire, music wire: zinc coated music wire, galvanized music wire, tinned music wire, preco-z music wire; stainless steel wire including: annealed stainless steel, 302 - 304 stainless steel, 316 stainless steel, 17/7 stainless steel, elgiloy wire, nichrome wire, nickel coated copper wire, oil tempered wire, and galvanized hard drawn wire.