Compression Spring Slenderness Ratio

• Compression Spring Design Resources – Spring Performance

When we talk about slenderness ratio we are usually describing the ratio of the Free Length (FL) of a compression spring to its Mean Diameter (D).

This slenderness ratio is important in that the higher the ratio, the more buckling will occur, especially if the spring is not supported over a rod or within a cavity. Additionally, the spring maker's ability to control close load tolerances is challenged, thus increasing the need for additional free length tolerance.

Slenderness Ration = FL/D

where FL= Free Length, D = Diameter

Please contact the CSPI Spring facility nearest you for more information on slenderness ratio and other considerations of spring design.