Derivation of spring constant k: Where can I find it?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the search for references that provide the mathematical derivation of the spring constant k for a coiled, ideal spring, specifically the formula k = G*d^4/(8*n*D^3). Participants express difficulty in locating such references and discuss the relevance of this derivation in the context of linear elasticity theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants seek a reference that includes the derivation of the spring constant formula, indicating it is a classic topic in linear elasticity theory.
  • One participant suggests that if the question is not homework-related, the Eng-Tips forum might be a useful resource.
  • Another participant questions the source of the formula and provides a link to a document but notes the absence of clear derivations in that source.
  • A later reply mentions that the derivation of the spring constant is related to the deflection of a coiled spring and references Castigliano's theorem as part of the derivation process.
  • One participant cites a specific textbook, "Mechanical Design: An Integrated Approach" by A. C. Ugural, as a potential source for the derivation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for a reference for the derivation, but there is no consensus on where to find it, and multiple suggestions are offered without resolution.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of specific sources provided for the derivation, and the discussion does not resolve the uncertainty regarding the availability of a clear derivation in existing literature.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in linear elasticity theory, mechanical design, or those seeking references for the mathematical derivation of spring constants may find this discussion relevant.

redoubt
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Folks---

I want a reference(text or journal article) that presents the mathematical
derivation of the following formula for the spring constant k of a coiled,
ideal spring.

k = G*d^4/(8*n*D^3)

A Google search was unsuccessful.
 
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Spring Constant Derivation: Where can I find it?

Folks---

I want a reference(textbook or journal article) that presents the mathematical derivation of the following formula for the spring constant k of a coiled, ideal spring.

k=G*d^4/(8*n*D^3)

A Google search was unsuccessful.

When this question was asked in the General Physics Forum several weeks ago, there were 81 views, but no replies. I believe this derivation is a classic in linear elasticity theory, but I can't locate it.
 
If this is not a homework type question, you might try Eng-Tips to see if anyone on there knows.
 
Where did you find the formula?

I found this:
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/engineering/documents/sm_lecture_19.pdf

but no obvious derivations...
 
Last edited by a moderator:
redoubt said:
Folks---

I want a reference(textbook or journal article) that presents the mathematical derivation of the following formula for the spring constant k of a coiled, ideal spring.

k=G*d^4/(8*n*D^3)

A Google search was unsuccessful.

When this question was asked in the General Physics Forum several weeks ago, there were 81 views, but no replies. I believe this derivation is a classic in linear elasticity theory, but I can't locate it.

This constant comes from the derivation of the deflection of a coiled spring. By deriving the deflection, one can extract the spring constant k from the equation.

The derivation of the equation for the deflection of a spring comes from Castigliano's theorem.

See A. C. Ugural "Mechanical Design: An Integrated Approach" McGraw-Hill Professional (2003): pg. 565
 

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