Wishy-Washy Washers: A Compare And Contrast Of Coil Springs And Belleville Washers

You walk into a hardware store, such as McFadden-Dale Industrial Hardware, only sure of one thing; you either need to get a Belleville washer or a coil spring. Beyond that, you aren't sure of anything. The research you have done tells you that for your half-completed project you can either use a traditional coil spring or a Belleville washer. You do know that you need to know the similarities and differences between the two before you can make a proper decision.

Don't be wishy-washy about your washers and coil springs, learn the basics and beyond about these two shock absorbing parts and how each can benefit you.

Belleville Washers and Coil Springs: History and Fabrication

You can thank Julian Belleville for the invention of the Belleville washer in the 1800's. Coil springs have been in use since the 15th Century when they were first used in the locking mechanism of doors. Coil springs were also used in clocks to aid in the winding mechanism. Belleville washers are categorized as springs as well as washers because of their washer-like appearance in addition to the conical shape of the actual washer which gives its spring-like tendencies. Coil springs are helix-shaped and are usually made of metal.

Belleville Washers and Coil Springs: Mechanism of Use

In a Belleville washer, the force from a heavy load is distributed in an even fashion around the circumference of each washer, providing greater stability. Belleville washers reach their maximum capacity of force when they are flattened out completely. These springs have a low creep tendency, high fatigue life, provide better use of space, and have a high load capacity.

When a coil spring is at rest, its coils are at an extended, non-touching position. When a force is applied to a coil spring, the force exerted is approximately proportional to the change in length. It is designed to become shorter when under force from a particular load. The force or load must be applied evenly to a coil spring. Otherwise, it has the potential to break, bow, or otherwise fail.

Belleville Washers and Coil Springs: Traditional Uses

There are many instances when a Belleville washer and coil spring can be interchanged without issue. However, each has its place within certain industries, manufacturing, and uses. For example, Belleville washers are the singularly used spring within formula car manufacturing, fishing reels, and weaponry. Coil springs are preferred in the manufacturing of pens, toys, clocks, and some mattresses.

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