Small Metal Coil Springs
Three Types of Small Coil Compression Springs
There are 3 types of small coil springs: small extension springs, small compression springs, and small torsion springs, each with different uses in our everyday life. If you're looking for a small stock coil spring, you can easily find it using our Compression Spring Finder.
Below, you’ll learn what small compression springs are used for and how they work.
Small Extension Coil Springs
Small extension springs are used when a pulling force is required. For example, pinball machines use small extension springs. When you pull the handle, it exerts pressure, and the spring contracts back to its original length when an equal or greater force is applied. These compact-sized extension springs produce a load when stretched and return to their original length once the pulling force is released.


Small Compression Coil Springs
Small coil springs (compression or helical springs) are used wherever a compression or pushing force is needed. For example, a ballpoint pen uses compact compression springs to push back against a load — this allows the clicker mechanism to function, pushing out or retracting the tip.


Small Torsion Coil Springs
Small torsion springs are used when rotational force is required in compact spaces. These springs create radial loads as their legs are rotated. In clocks, the spring is wound up by turning the arbor, and the stored energy turns it back to keep the clock running. As you increase the angle of rotation, the spring’s force turns the clock hands.


Small Coil Springs in Stock
These springs are found in many devices: auto-injectors, medical devices, small pumps, keyboards, push buttons, precision instruments, tools, toys, and more. They can be made from wire diameters ranging from 0.00275" to 0.015".


Buy Small Metal Coil Springs
At The Spring Store, we offer a large variety of small springs for sale across many applications. Use our Compression Spring Finder to help you select the perfect compact coil spring for your project or prototype.