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Torsion spring
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{{short description|Type of spring}} {{for|torsion coefficients in mathematics|Torsion coefficient (topology)}} [[File:Torsion spring.png|thumb|Garage Door Sectional Torsion Spring]] [[File:Victor-Mousetrap.jpg|thumb|right|A [[mousetrap]] powered by a helical torsion spring]] [[File:Torsion-pendulum.ogv|thumb|Video of a model torsion pendulum oscillating]] A '''torsion spring''' is a [[spring (device)|spring]] that works by [[Torsion (mechanics)|twisting]] its end along its axis; that is, a flexible [[Elasticity (physics)|elastic]] object that stores [[mechanical energy]] when it is twisted. When it is twisted, it exerts a [[torque]] in the opposite direction, proportional to the amount (angle) it is twisted. There are various types: *A '''torsion bar''' is a straight bar of metal or rubber that is subjected to twisting ([[shear stress]]) about its axis by torque applied at its ends. *A more delicate form used in sensitive instruments, called a '''torsion fiber''' consists of a [[fiber]] of silk, glass, or [[Fused quartz|quartz]] under tension, that is twisted about its axis. *A '''helical torsion spring''', is a metal rod or wire in the shape of a [[helix]] (coil) that is subjected to twisting about the axis of the coil by sideways forces ([[bending moment]]s) applied to its ends, twisting the coil tighter. *Clocks use a spiral wound torsion spring (a form of helical torsion spring where the coils are around each other instead of piled up) sometimes called a "clock spring" or colloquially called a [[mainspring]]. Those types of torsion springs are also used for attic stairs, clutches, [[typewriter]]s<ref>{{cite web | url=https://maritime.org/doc/typewriter/index.htm | title=Typewriter Maintenance }}</ref> and other devices that need near constant torque for large angles or even multiple revolutions.
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