Introduction to the Function and Characteristics of Disc Springs

　　There are many types of springs, which can be mainly divided into four types based on the nature of the load they bear: tension, compression, torsion, and bending. According to the shape of the spring, they can be classified into helical, disc, ring, leaf springs, and disc springs, etc.

　　Disc springThe Belleville spring, also known as the Belleville washer, was first invented by the French inventor Belleville over 100 years ago. In the early 1930s, engineers (G.M.) Almen and Laszio developed this theory and established the production and quality standards DIN 2092 and DIN 2093. As the industrial standards for disc springs, these standards have been accepted worldwide and are prevalent in Europe. Currently, the application of disc springs in mechanical products is increasing, and they are largely replacing cylindrical helical springs. They are commonly used in heavy machinery (such as presses) and weapons like cannons and aircraft, serving as cushioning and vibration-damping springs, as well as being used as clamping components in automotive and tractor clutches and safety valves or pressure relief valves, and as energy storage elements in actuators, converting mechanical energy into stored deformation energy. Next, I will introduce the functions and characteristics of disc springs.

　　1. Functions of Disc Springs

　　The shape of the disc spring is conical disc-shaped, which is different from traditional springs. Its special function mainly features high load capacity, short stroke, small required space, convenient combination use, easy maintenance and replacement, and high economic safety. It is suitable for precision heavy machinery with small space and high load. Its optimal compression stroke is within 10%-75% of its maximum compression stroke.

　　2. Characteristics of Disc Springs

　　1. High rigidity, strong cushioning and vibration absorption capability, able to withstand large loads with minimal deformation, suitable for situations with small axial space requirements.

　　2. Due to variable stiffness, this type of disc spring has a wide range of nonlinear characteristics.

　　3. Using the same disc spring in different combinations can greatly change its characteristics. It can be combined by folding and overlapping, or by combining different thicknesses and sheets.

　　3. Surface Treatment of Disc Springs

　　1. General surface treatment: Phosphate treatment followed by lubrication.

　　2. Special surface treatments: Various processes such as galvanizing, steel, chrome, metal film, and baking paint.

　　Compared to cylindrical helical springs, disc springs have the following advantages:

　　1. The load-deformation characteristic curve is nonlinear.

　　2. Disc springs are thinner, easy to form components, can be assembled and replaced like building blocks, and are convenient for maintenance.

　　3. The stiffness of disc springs with radial grooves is zero. This characteristic can be used in situations where the spring force needs to remain basically stable within a certain deformation range.

　　4. The vibration-damping performance of disc springs is not lower than that of cylindrical helical springs. When using layered combinations, due to the friction between the disc springs, they have greater damping, thus dissipating impact energy.

　　This concludes the introduction to the functions and characteristics of disc springs, hoping it will be helpful to everyone.