When it comes to mechanical design, the right spring can make all the difference. Two of the most common spring types in industrial applications are disc springs and coil springs — but which one is the better choice?
Let’s compare both and help you decide which spring is ideal for your system.
🔍 1. Basic Design Difference
Coil Springs: Cylindrical in shape, made by coiling wire around an axis.
Disc Springs: Conical-shaped metal discs (also called Belleville washers) that compress axially.
Disc springs offer higher force output in less space, while coil springs provide longer travel but need more space.
⚙️ 2. Load Capacity & Space Efficiency
Disc Springs can handle very high loads in compact spaces — perfect for pressure valves, flanges, and high-force assemblies.
Coil Springs are larger and not ideal for tight environments where space is limited.
✅ Winner: Disc Springs
🛠️ 3. Customization & Stacking
Disc springs can be stacked in series or parallel to adjust force and deflection.
Coil springs are limited in configuration unless redesigned entirely.
✅ Winner: Disc Springs (more modular)
🧪 4. Fatigue Resistance & Durability
High-quality disc springs (like 60Si2MnA or 50CrVA) offer excellent fatigue life, especially after heat treatment.
Coil springs are durable too but may fatigue faster in extreme environments.
✅ Winner: Tie (depends on quality)
🌡️ 5. Application Flexibility
Disc Springs: Best for valves, wind turbines, electrical equipment, and compact actuators.
Coil Springs: More common in vehicles, furniture, and general equipment.
✅ Winner: Disc Springs (for high-performance industrial use)
💡 So, Which One Is Better?
If you’re working with limited space, need high force output, and want custom stacking options, then disc springs are the clear winner.
At Three Ants Precision Machinery, we specialize in precision disc springs that meet strict international standards and deliver outstanding performance in demanding industrial conditions.
Need help choosing the right spring for your machinery?
👉 Contact our team for expert guidance and custom engineering solutions.