Canted coil springs: precision, reliability, and performance

Canted coid springs are small components that play a significant role. Although they may go unnoticed, they are crucial to the electrical and mechanical performance of many devices and systems. If you work in product design, engineering, or electrical component manufacturing, chances are you've come across (or will come across) this type of spring.

In this article, we'll clearly and simply explain what they are, why they're used, and the advantages they offer over other solutions.

What are canted coil springs?

The canted coil springs feature slanted coils that allow for both axial and radial deflection, making them ideal for compensating for various types of movement. Available in multiple sizes, they are used to ensure reliable electrical or mechanical contact—or to serve as a seal—between two surfaces.

They're called "canted" because their edges or ends have been modified, typically through a slanting process, to ensure proper contact, fit, or connection with other parts. This slanted coil design is crucial for preventing damage to the components it touches and for maintaining a stable, secure connection in challenging conditions, such as vibration, corrosion, or high temperatures.

Advantages

Here's why more and more manufacturers are choosing this type of spring:

• Improved Contact Quality: thanks to the canting process, the contact surface is smoother and more uniform, which improves conductivity and reduces electrical resistance.
• Enhanced Force Transfer: the canting ensures firm contact with the mating surface, facilitating the transfer of force or energy between the spring and the connected component.
• Dynamic Sealing: in some applications, these springs provide dynamic sealing in the presence of movement, misalignment, or shaft eccentricity, allowing for perfect absorption.
• Greater Durability: the canted finish helps prevent stress points that could lead to premature material fatigue or failure.
• Ease of Assembly: canted Coil Springs are easier to handle and assemble—both manually and automatically.

Typical applications

You can find Canted Coil Springs across a wide range of industries. Some of the most common include:

• Consumer electronics (smartphones, tablets, wearables)
• Automotive industry (connectors, sensors, assistance systems)
• Telecommunications (connection modules, antennas)
• Industrial and medical equipment
• Electrical systems (switches, connectors, distribution cells)
• Oil & Gas (drilling tools)
• Dynamic sealing
• Aerospace
• EMI shielding and grounding

Wherever there is a need for a reliable electrical and/or mechanical connection in tight spaces and harsh conditions, these springs are an ideal solution.

How are canted coil springs manufactured?

The manufacturing process includes steps such as:

1. Coiling the material (stainless steel, bronze alloys, Elgiloy, etc.)
2. Canting the coiled material
3. Laser welding the ends
4. Heat and surface treatments depending on the application
5. Special coatings

Every detail matters. A well-executed canting and welding process can make the difference between a solid connection and an intermittent failure.

Choose the right option for your project

If you're developing a product where electrical or mechanical contact is critical, consider using canted springs from the initial design phase. Their reliability, ease of assembly, and wear resistance make them a wise choice.

At RPK Group, we manufacture these components to measure, tailored to each customer's specific needs. Please tell us what you need, and we'll help you find the best solution.