KEVOS® MAKEOS · Springs
Springs in Series or Parallel
What is the combined rate of these springs, and how is the load shared?
Equivalent rate of up to four springs in series or parallel, with the deflection and load of each spring under a given total load.
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How this tool works
Inputs, units and where to find them
| Input | Unit | Typical source |
|---|---|---|
| Arrangement | choice | Parallel when springs act side by side or nested; series when one pushes on the next. |
| Rate of spring 1 | N/mm | Rate of spring 1 from its data sheet or a test. |
| Rate of spring 2 | N/mm | Rate of spring 2. |
| Rate of spring 3 (0 = not used) | N/mm | Rate of spring 3, or 0. |
| Rate of spring 4 (0 = not used) | N/mm | Rate of spring 4, or 0. |
| Total load | N | Total load on the combination. |
Method and formulas
- Parallel: k = Σkᵢ; every spring deflects F ÷ k and carries kᵢ × deflection.
- Series: 1/k = Σ(1/kᵢ); every spring carries F and deflects F ÷ kᵢ.
- Example: 20 and 30 N/mm in parallel give 50 N/mm and 10 mm under 500 N.
Limitations
- Linear springs within their working range; parallel springs must start loading together (no preload differences).
- Example values are illustrations. Replace them with values for your actual task.
Typical uses
- Combine springs for a target rate
- Find load sharing in nested or stacked springs
- Model mounts and supports
Who it is for
- Design engineers
- Spring buyers
- Maintenance engineers
What you get
- Equivalent rate
- Total deflection
- Load and deflection of each spring
Interpreting the result
- Check that no individual spring exceeds its own maximum load or deflection.
References
- Machinery’s Handbook, 29th edition (Industrial Press, 2012), printed pp. 304–320. Topic reference; no source tables or recommended settings are reproduced.
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