Accordion Springs

Flat, folded compression springs for smooth torque transfer in tight spaces

Our engineering team and advanced manufacturing know-how deliver perfect accordion spring solutions for your project

Accordion springs are flat, accordion-shaped compression springs engineered to deliver high torque damping in a compact form factor. They smooth out power transfer and absorb torsional vibrations, protecting critical components in places where traditional coil springs cannot perform effectively. Thanks to their lightweight, folded design, accordion springs provide stable repetable stiffness under demanding conditions. We use them to replace traditional helical springs when axial space, mass, or dynamic response are critical constraints.

RPK Group manufactures custom accordion springs tailored to your performance requirements, defined by material thickness, number of folds, pitch, radii, and free length. We validate every design through FEA and manufacture high-volume parts using high-speed multislide technology, ensuring repeatable stiffness, durability, and tight tolerances. We select high-grade spring steels to guarantee consistent performance under high-cycle, high-torque conditions. The result is a robust spring that maintains its damping characteristics over a long service life without set or load loss.

Advantages and benefits of Accordion Springs

Efficient vibration damping that improves system smoothness and durability
Long service life under repetitive and dynamic operating conditions
High torsional damping in minimal axial space, ideal for compact transmissions and clutches

Types of Accordion Springs

Measures

Strip thickness: from 0.05 mm (0.002 in)
Strip width: 1-140 mm (0.04-5.5 in)

Materials

The choice of the right material, surface treatment and coating are critical for the final quality and safety of the product. From stainless steels to the most specific materials bought in from the best suppliers.

Carbon steel, almost for every application
Stainless steel, ideal for high stress and fatigue applications
Inconel
Elgiloy
Hastelloy
Chrome silicon
Other materials according to your special requirements

Industries / Applications

Automotive

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Industrial

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Bikes and eBikes

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an accordion spring?

An accordion spring is a corrugated flat spring with alternating folds that compress and expand like the bellows of an accordion. This geometry provides high force output in a very short axial length and distributes the load across multiple fold points, reducing stress concentration. Accordion springs are used where space is extremely limited and high axial forces are needed.

Where are accordion springs used in automotive and industrial applications?

Accordion springs are used in valve seat loading, electrical connector preloading, lighting, clutch systems, fuel system components, hydraulic solenoid valve springs, and medical device actuation mechanisms. Their compact profile makes them suitable for any application where a conventional coil spring would not fit.

How do accordion springs compare to wave springs?

Both accordion springs and wave springs provide high force in a small axial space. Accordion springs use a folded-flat strip geometry and are particularly effective for very high-force applications with extremely short free heights. Wave springs use a coiled flat wire and provide more precise control of spring rate across a wider range of force levels. RPK Group can help you select between the two based on your force, travel, and dimensional constraints.

Can accordion springs be made from stainless steel or specialty alloys?

Yes. RPK Group manufactures accordion springs in carbon steel, stainless steel, and specialty alloys, including Inconel and Hastelloy, for high-temperature or corrosive applications such as engine sealing systems, exhaust system components, and oil & gas equipment.

Get the most out of our expertise

Our engineers work alongside our customers to find the best solution for them, applying scientific methods and knowledge accumulated over almost 50 years.