Determine the Spring Design given Spring Stiffness of 400 N/m

In summary, the conversation discusses the design of a spring with specific measurements, including a stiffness of 400N/m or 295 ft lbs, an outer diameter of 0.25 in, and a free length of 3 cm or 1.18 in. The main concerns are calculating the spring diameter to prevent over or under damping, preventing buckling, and determining the number of coils needed based on the stiffness. There is also a mention of using small springs due to the small size of the design.
  • #1
ftrflyr
5
0
I am trying to design a spring given the following measurements:

Spring Stiffness is 400N/m or 295 ft lbs
Outer Diameter of spring is 0.25 in
Free Length is 3 cm or 1.18 in
Load is max: 5lbs

I am having trouble with:

Calculating the Spring Diamter so as the spring is not over damped or under damped
Ensuring the spring won't buckle
Determining the number of coils necessary knowing the spring stiffness

Any help would be great! Thanks!
 
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  • #2
You've got bigger problems than that: k = 400 N/m is not equal to k = 295 lbs / ft.

Why such small springs?
 
  • #3
Okay disregard the 295 ft lbs then. Small springs because the design is small. :)
 

FAQ: Determine the Spring Design given Spring Stiffness of 400 N/m

How do I determine the spring design given a spring stiffness of 400 N/m?

To determine the spring design, you will need to know the desired force or weight that the spring will need to support, the maximum deflection of the spring, and the desired spring rate (stiffness) of 400 N/m. With this information, you can use the formula F = kx, where F is the force, k is the spring stiffness, and x is the deflection, to calculate the required length and diameter of the spring. You can also use a spring design calculator or consult a spring design handbook for more precise calculations.

What factors should I consider when designing a spring with a stiffness of 400 N/m?

When designing a spring with a stiffness of 400 N/m, you should consider the material of the spring, the wire diameter, the coil diameter, the number of active coils, and the free length of the spring. These factors will affect the spring's ability to support the desired force and its deflection capabilities.

Can I use a spring with a stiffness of 400 N/m for any application?

The suitability of a spring with a stiffness of 400 N/m for a particular application will depend on the specific requirements and parameters of that application. It is always best to consult with a professional engineer or utilize a spring design calculator to determine the most appropriate spring for your application.

How does the stiffness of a spring affect its performance?

The stiffness of a spring affects its performance in several ways. A stiffer spring will require more force to achieve a certain deflection, while a less stiff spring will require less force. Additionally, the stiffness of a spring can affect its resonance frequency, natural frequency, and damping characteristics.

Is a spring with a stiffness of 400 N/m considered to be a strong spring?

The strength of a spring is not solely determined by its stiffness. A spring with a stiffness of 400 N/m may be considered strong in some applications, but not in others. Factors such as material, wire diameter, and coil design all play a role in determining the strength of a spring. It is essential to consider all of these factors when designing a spring for a specific application.

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