How to Make a Spring in SolidWorks?

Understanding the Basics of Spring Design in SolidWorks

Creating a spring in SolidWorks requires an understanding of basic parameters and features available in the software. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you create a helical spring model suitable for various applications.

Step 1: Open a New Part File

Start SolidWorks and create a new part file. This will be your workspace where you will design the spring.

Step 2: Setting Up the Sketch

1. Select the Plane: Choose a plane to sketch on (Front, Top, or Right).
2. Create the Base Circle:
   • Use the Circle tool to draw a circle that represents the wire diameter of the spring.
   • Dimension this circle appropriately to set the wire diameter.

Step 3: Defining the Spring Parameters

1. Setting the Pitch: Determine and note the pitch of the spring, which is the distance between the centers of two adjacent coils.
2. Determine the Number of Coils: Decide on the number of active coils your spring will have. Input this value for later calculations.
3. Measure Overall Length: Calculate the intended free length of the spring when not under load.

Step 4: Creating the Helix

1. Go to the Helix/Spiral Tool: Locate this tool in the Features tab.
2. Choose Helix Type: Set it to "Revolution" for a typical coil spring design.
3. Input Parameters:
   • Specify the base circle’s diameter (for the outer diameter of the spring).
   • Enter the pitch you previously defined.
   • Indicate the total number of revolutions to match the number of coils your spring requires.

Step 5: Completing the Helix Geometry

Once you have defined the Helix, SolidWorks will generate the helical path representing the spring. Review this coil to ensure accuracy against your design specifications.

Step 6: Creating the Wire Cross-section

1. Select the Circular Profile Tool: Use the circle tool to sketch the cross-section of the spring wire on a separate plane.
2. Dimension the Sketch: Set the diameter of the circle equal to the wire diameter defined at the beginning.

Step 7: Sweeping the Profile Along the Helix

1. Access the Sweep Feature: Go to the Features tab and select “Sweep”.
2. Choose the Profile and Path:
   • Select the circular profile you created for the wire cross-section.
   • Then, select the helix as the path.
3. Verify the Sweep: Once you perform the sweep operation, check the model to ensure the spring appears correct.

Step 8: Final Touches

1. Fillet the Edges (If Necessary): To avoid sharp edges, you can apply a fillet feature to the edges of the spring.
2. Visual Inspection: Rotate and zoom in on the model to ensure all parameters are accurately represented.

Step 9: Saving Your Model

Once satisfied with the design, save your part file with an appropriate name that reflects its function or design.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I consider when determining the spring’s material?
Consider the spring’s application, required strength, fatigue resistance, and environmental factors. Common materials include stainless steel, music wire, and other alloys specific to the spring’s intended use.

2. Can I modify the parameters of an existing spring model?
Yes, you can easily edit a part by adjusting parameters like pitch, diameter, or number of coils. Utilizing SolidWorks’ feature tree allows you to make changes without starting from scratch.

3. How do I ensure my spring meets industry standards?
Refer to relevant engineering standards such as ASTM, ISO, or SAE for spring design. Utilizing SolidWorks simulation tools can also help assess performance under specified loading conditions.