A spring is a mechanical component able to deform with considerable elasticity even when subjected to limited force. This peculiarity makes it suitable for use in a wide range of sectors. In fact, it is regularly exploited not only in the industry, thanks to its ability to accumulate and release mechanical energy, but also in everyday objects. Cars are a clear example of this - but is it possible to calculate the number of springs used for constructing a vehicle?
"Given that we are not just talking about suspension springs, the amount of springs included in a car is difficult to quantify, because they are functional elements present in numerous systems, as is the case for many other everyday items," explains Alberto Barbieri, the R&D manager of Cappeller (Cartigliano, Vicenza, Italy). This well-established company has been manufacturing torsion, compression, and tension springs, formed and moulded parts, small precision components, moulds, and equipment for various application fields for over fifty years.
"Our firm, founded in 1969, started its business by focussing on wire springs, then soon specialised in formed and moulded parts as well as small precision components. Coil processing was added more recently. Our products are mainly intended for the automotive industry (70%), whereas the electrical, household appliance, and food sectors account for the remaining 30%. All these industries have made their component specifications significantly stricter, requiring not only greater wear resistance and, therefore, protection, but also an attractive appearance, a factor that certainly offers an added value, although it has always been little considered until now."
In order to meet such requirements, in January this year the company decided to invest in a new cleaning technology by installing a modified alcohol system designed and supplied by IFP Europe (Galliera Veneta, Padua, Italy).