Spiraalijousi

Spiraalijousi, known in English as a helical spring or coil spring, is a mechanical device formed from a spring made of wire or bar stock wound into a helix. Its primary function is to store mechanical energy and release it when deformed, or to exert a force or torque when subjected to displacement. Spiraalijouset are incredibly versatile and are found in a vast array of applications across many industries.

There are several common types of spiraalijousi. Torsiojousi (torsion spring) is designed to resist twisting or torsion. Puristusjousi (compression spring) is designed to be compressed. Vetojousi (extension spring) is designed to be stretched. The material used for spiraalijousi is typically spring steel, chosen for its high tensile strength and elasticity, allowing it to return to its original shape after deformation.

The design and behavior of a spiraalijousi are governed by principles of physics, particularly Hooke's Law, which states that the force exerted by a spring is directly proportional to its displacement from its equilibrium position, within its elastic limit. The spring constant, or stiffness, is a key parameter that determines how much force is required to deform the spring by a certain amount.

Applications for spiraalijouset are widespread. They are used in vehicle suspension systems to absorb shocks, in ballpoint pens to retract the tip, in trampolines to provide bounce, and in countless industrial machinery and everyday objects. Their ability to store and release energy makes them essential components in many mechanical systems.