TaskJunction

Compression Spring Calculator

Spring rate, deflection, Wahl stress, and factor of safety for compression springs.

Calculate spring rate, deflection, and shear stress (with Wahl correction) for a helical compression spring.

Reference: Wahl's Formula

Compression Spring Calculator

Inputs

Results

Spring Index (C)
8.33
Wahl Correction Factor
1.176
Max Shear Stress
416.0MPa
Spring Rate (k)
5.14N/mm
Deflection
29.19mm
Factor of Safety
1.20
Solid Length (approx)
36.0mm

Formula Used

τ = Kw·8PD/(πd³)  |  k = Gd⁴/(8D³n)  |  Kw=(4C-1)/(4C-4)+0.615/C
Spring index C should ideally be between 4 and 12 for good manufacturability — values outside this range may need special handling. Solid length assumes squared and ground end coils.

⚠ For preliminary design and educational use only. Verify all results against applicable codes and standards before use in production or safety-critical applications.

About this calculator

Part of our Mechanical Calculators collection. Beams, bolts, springs, gears, bearings, and core ME calculations.

How it works

Calculates spring rate, deflection under load, Wahl corrected shear stress, and factor of safety against yielding for helical compression springs.

Enter your values in the inputs above and click CALCULATE. Results appear on the right without a page reload. No login and no server upload.

Privacy and accuracy

Every calculation runs locally in your browser. Your design data never leaves your device. Results are intended for preliminary engineering work. Always verify critical designs with qualified review and applicable standards before production use.

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