Volute Spring
A volute spring is a type of mechanical spring that is shaped like a spiral, commonly used to store and release energy in various applications. It is characterized by a spiral or coiled shape that typically looks like a snail shell or a scroll.
Here’s a more detailed description of a volute spring:
Shape
The spring is wound in a flat, spiral shape, often starting from a central core and winding outward. Unlike the more familiar cylindrical or helical springs, a volute spring’s turns spread out gradually.
Material:
Volute springs are usually made of metal, such as steel, but they can also be made from other materials depending on the specific application. The material must have good elastic properties to store and release energy effectively.
Function:
These springs are often used for applications requiring a relatively constant force over a long range of motion. Due to their shape, they can provide high energy storage with relatively little space. They are designed to operate in compression, meaning they store energy when compressed.
Applications:
Volute springs are used in a variety of mechanisms such as clocks, mechanical actuators, and certain automotive applications (like tensioning mechanisms in belt-driven systems). They can also be found in valves, door mechanisms, and as shock absorbers in various machinery.
