There are many types of springs used in agricultural machinery. Here are some common types:
1. Cylindrical Helical Springs
Compression Springs: These springs are widely used in agricultural machinery. Their main function is to withstand axial pressure, providing cushioning and shock absorption. For example, in the header suspension system of a combine harvester, compression springs buffer the impact forces experienced by the header during operation, allowing it to work smoothly. When the header encounters uneven ground or uneven crop density, the compression spring is compressed, absorbing the impact energy and protecting the header and other related components from damage.
Tension Springs: Tension springs primarily withstand axial tension. They are used in the traction devices of some agricultural machinery. For example, at the tow hook of an agricultural trailer, the tension spring acts as a buffer and adjusts when the vehicle is subjected to changes in traction force during starting, stopping, or driving. It prevents damage to the tow hook and connecting parts due to excessive instantaneous tension, while ensuring traction stability.
Torsion Springs: Torsion springs are cylindrical helical springs that withstand torsional deformation. They are used in certain rotating parts of agricultural machinery. For example, in the sprinkler head rotation mechanism of some agricultural irrigation equipment, torsion springs provide restoring force, allowing the sprinkler head to rotate within a certain angle range under the impact of water flow, and returning the sprinkler head to its initial position when the water flow stops or changes direction.
2. Disc Springs Disc springs are springs shaped like discs. They are characterized by high stiffness and strong energy absorption capacity. Disc springs are used in the clutch systems of large agricultural machinery, such as heavy-duty tractors. When the clutch engages or disengages, the disc spring provides stable pressure, ensuring that the clutch plates can fit tightly or disengage smoothly, thereby effectively transmitting or cutting off power. Moreover, disc springs have relatively small deformation under heavy loads, ensuring stable power transmission under complex agricultural machinery operating conditions, such as heavy traction or high-speed travel.
3. Leaf Springs Leaf springs are usually made up of multiple stacked spring steel plates. They are commonly found in the suspension systems of agricultural vehicles, such as the rear suspension of agricultural transport vehicles. They effectively buffer the impact force generated by uneven road surfaces during vehicle travel, making the vehicle ride smoother. At the same time, leaf springs can also bear the weight of the vehicle body. The degree of deformation of the leaf springs will change accordingly according to the vehicle's load, thereby automatically adjusting the vehicle's height and posture to ensure the vehicle's driving safety and comfort.
