The NEG'ATOR constant force spring signifies the most basic, yet the most adaptable, type of constant force extension spring.
It is a prestressed flat strip of spring material which is made into virtually constant radius coils around itself or on a drum. When deflected, the spring material straightens as it goes out of the drum. This straightened length of spring essentially stores the spring’s energy via its propensity to assume its natural radius.
The Material
For superior quality force springs, Hunter Spring supplies constant force springs manufactured using 301 High Yield Stainless Steel. Other materials including Inconel, Elgiloy, or high-carbon steel can be used upon request for tailored applications.
Key Features
- Low force gradient over whole deflection range
- Maximum force created at initial deflection
- Very long linear extensions are possible
- A range of materials can be used
- Negative force or negative torque gradient realizable
- Permits smaller package size because of inherent compact size and lightweight
Standard or Custom Springs
Hunter Spring can deliver both standard and custom constant force spring designs.
The constant force springs can also be tailored to have a negative torque gradient or a negative force. For applications where inadequate space is an issue, springs can be wound together in a laminated assembly to increase output force with least impact on fatigue life and spring size.
The constant force spring design worksheet can be used by customers to indicate specific requirements and allow the Application Engineers to offer a design to match those specific requirements.
