How long will a spring last?
A correctly designed spring, without any extraordinary stress will last indefinitely. Designing a spring based on its operating environment is necessary to increase the life of the spring. If the spring is in a corrosive environment, or under extreme temperatures, the proper material must be used in the design of the spring. Using a stainless steel material, or putting a protective finish on the spring according to the elements involved will increase the life cycle of the spring. • How do I know if a spring is left hand or right hand wound? The best way to determine the direction of the spring is to use your right index finger and lay it over the spring. If the end of the spring starts at the tip of your right index finger and proceed to wrap towards you palm this is considered a right hand wound spring. Conversely, a left hand wound spring would start at the tip of your left index finger and wrap towards your left palm. • Does it matter if a torsion spring is left or right hand wound?