Types of suspension springs used in vehicle

The vehicle suspension springs function to dampen shocks and vibrations in the vehicle body caused by the shock when the wheels cross uneven roads. Springs also ensure that the wheels remain on the road surface so that traction and vehicle control are possible.

The springs in the vehicle suspension cannot stand on their own. It requires additional suspension components so that the suspension system's function on the vehicle can be achieved, such as being installed with a shock absorber, which functions to reduce the effect of deflection on the spring.

There are four types of springs used in vehicle suspensions: leaf springs, coil springs, torsion bar springs, and air springs. Check out the various types of springs in vehicle suspensions and their advantages and disadvantages in the article below

1. Leaf spring

Leaf spring is a spring made of flat and curved steels plate with a thickness of 0,12-0,23 inches or more. There are several types of leaf spring commonly used in today's car. In vehicles, leaf springs composed of several steel plate sheets tied together using bolts or fastening clamps in the middle.

At the end of the most elongated steel plate (front), a spring formed in a circular shape to tie into the frame. While at the other end (rear), it connects with a swing arm that can move when there is a difference in length when the spring works.

Leaf springs are mostly used in older passenger vehicles or pick-up and truck types. However, leaf-spring suspensions are also often found in some of the latest MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) passenger cars.

Advantages of leaf spring

Leaf springs have a simple construction
Leaf springs can dampen vibrations by themselves.
Leaf springs have stronger construction, so they often function as support arms.

Disadvantages of leaf spring

The shock absorption is not very good, which reduces the driving comfort level.
The spring position's stability only depends on the bushing, which makes the bushing damaged more quickly. As a result, there are often noises on this type of spring.

2. Coil spring

The coil spring has many names, including a snail spring, a screw spring, and a spiral spring. This coil spring is a spring made of special steel rods circular in shape like a spiral so that they resemble a cochlea or snail.

This coil spring is often used in small vehicles, especially for cars concerned with passenger comfort, such as in a sedan type. Coil springs are also used in various types of suspensions, both rigid and independent suspensions.

Advantages of coil spring

Coil spring absorbs vibration and shock better than leaf and torsion bar springs.
More extensive on stretching and deflection.
Coil spring does not cause friction during deflection.
Coil spring has excellent resistance to shock loads.

Disadvantages of coil springs

Coil spring cannot dampen shock independently, so it requires an additional shock absorber.
Requires a strong spring holder to be attached to both ends of the coil spring.
Cannot accept horizontal forces thus requires a suspension arm.

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3. Torsion bar spring

A torsion bar spring is a spring made of special steel rods that have elastic characteristics against torsion. One end of this spring mounts on the vehicle frame, which does not get twisted, while the other end is mounted on the suspension swing arm, such as the lower control arm.

When the lower control arm (along with the wheels) receives a shock from the road surface, this lower control arm will twist the torsion bar so that there is a twisting effect that will absorb the shock. When the shock effect is complete, the torsion bar will rewind the swing arm so that the wheels return to their original position.

Advantages of torsion bar spring

Simple construction, lightweight, and does not take up much space.
Effectively absorb high-frequency shock.
The car height can be adjustable.

Disadvantages of torsion bar spring

Not suitable for vehicles with heavy loads
Incorrect height adjustment can result in difficult wheel alignment and tilt body problems.
The price is high and more expensive.

4. Air spring

This air spring or air suspension is a spring that uses compressed air as a component that will dampen shocks and vibrations from wheels and road surfaces. Some air compress into the air bellow, which connects to the suspension arm through a pump.

The compressed air into the air sacs will dampen the shocks and vibrations that arise due to uneven and bumpy road surfaces.

Advantages of air spring

It can absorb impact and shock better than all types of springs, so it is more comfortable.
Resistant to heavy loads and can be used in heavy vehicles such as passenger buses or trucks.
The height of the vehicle can be adjusted as needed.

Disadvantages of air springs

Has the most complicated construction because it requires many additional components
The highest price compared to other types of springs
Treatment is complicated.