Contributed by
Newcomb Spring of Canada Ltd.
SPRING RATE – WHAT IS IT & HOW DO I DETERMINE SPRING RATE?
1. Deflect* the spring approximated 20% of the available deflection and measure the load (P1) and the height (L1).
2. Deflect* the spring approximately 80% of the available deflection and measure the load (P2) and the height (L2).
3. Calculate the rate (lbs/inch) or (N/mm) by using the following formula:
R =
(P2 – P1)
(L1 – L2)
where R = Rate, P = Load,
L = Load Length
*To deflect a spring one would apply or remove an external load, causing the spring ends/arms to move.