Abstract
During the past year test work on volute springs has been undertaken on a scale probably never equaled before. The results of this work have necessarily influenced the theoretical thinking. Tests have been conducted both on suspension springs, which are under continuous static load, and on bumper springs which are normally unloaded. Laboratory tests on suspension springs took place for an extended period at constant stroke and predetermined heights with the help of a converted press. More lately, the springs have been tested at constant stroke and predetermined maximum load on a new constant-stress test machine. Field tests have been conducted at the proving grounds, partly over extremely rough terrain. The paper gives some instances of the redesigning of volute springs which was prompted by test results. It also deals with static loading tests, both axial and radial, and with differences in results caused by different manufacturing methods.