How much do you know about torsion springs? If you are like the vast majority of people out in the world today, the answer is that you know next to nothing about these types of springs. Most people do not have much of a need to know about them unless they are working in a field that uses them regularly. Of course, if you ever run into a situation where you need to get a new garage door opener system, then you might also suddenly find that you need to learn about torsion springs. Fortunately, we can help to provide you with the information you need.
The springs will be responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door. This means that when the door is balanced correctly, thanks to this system, it will be possible to open the door manually and with just one hand if needed. As you can imagine, this is an essential part of your garage door opener system.
Types of Springs
With the overhead garage doors that are made up of different sections, there are two types of springs used. These include the extension springs and the torsion springs. Only one type of spring will be used per system, of course. Which of these is the most popular? Today, the torsion springs seem to be more in use because they come with some fantastic benefits. It will generally be a quieter option since it will be attached to the door instead of the horizontal tracks that are used by extension springs.
Another one of the reasons the torsion springs are popular is that they are also safer. They are inside of a shaft, so even if the spring breaks, it will not cause damage to the garage door, a vehicle, wall, or a person nearby. Extension springs that do not have safety cables can be dangerous. The torsion springs also tend to provide smooth operation.
How Does the System Work?
Coiled torsion springs work through twisting. They can store the mechanical energy of the door, which can ensure that it is easy to lift whether you are using an electric garage door opener, or you are lifting the garage door by hand.
Naturally, the spring does not do this all by itself. It works in concert with several other elements of the garage door opener system. This includes the bottom bracket + lifting cable + drum + shaft + spring. With the door closed, its energy transfers to the spring. When the door is open, it will be relaxed.
The doors are typically heavier than people realize. Most people have balanced garage doors that are easy to open, so they never stop to think about just how heavy the door could be. They can be very heavy, though.
With a 1 ¾”‑thick steel door, which is insulated, it will be about 2 lb per square foot. Of course, if you also have windows, this weight will be even higher. Doors that are 9’ x 7’ weight between 68 kg and 73 kg, while doors that are 16’ x 7’ will weight 127 kg to 135 kg.
Those that have a 2”‑thick steel door will find that the weight is naturally higher. It is usually between 57 kg to 59 kg for a 9’ x 7’ door and between 102 kg and 107 kg for a 16’ x 7’ door.
Important Information to Keep in Mind
Here are some more quick information and tips regarding torsion springs.
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Most of the time, a single door that is 9’ x 7’ will have a single spring, and a double door that is 16’ x 7’ will have two springs.
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Springs are typically galvanized (35% to 40%), which helps to protect them from rust. In some cases, it is possible to have fully galvanized torsion springs.
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Manufacturers make springs that can be installed on either side of the door.
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Most of the time, springs will be rated for 10,000 open/close cycles. However, there are some high‑quality springs available that can be rated for up to 25,000 cycles.
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Torsion springs do not need to be placed in the front. If there is not enough space above the garage door, they can be placed in the rear, where they will need to use double horizontal tracks
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If you want to make sure that your springs last for as long as possible, they need to receive regular lubricating along with all of the other metal parts of the door that touch one another when it is in operation. Always use a petroleum-based lubricant.
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Are your torsion springs working right? To check, you will deactivate your electric opener and try to lift the door manually. If the door is too heavy for you to attempt to lift on your own with ease, there is a problem, and you will want to have the professionals take care of it.
Broken Springs Are Dangerous
Working on just about any part of your garage door that goes beyond just cleaning it has the potential to be very dangerous. You do not want to attempt to change out a spring or make any repairs on your own. Instead, you will want to make sure that you take the time to contact professionals who can help you.
Those who live in or around Wyevale or Barrie can contact us at 705‑322‑0136. We understand garage doors inside and out, and we can provide you with the help you need right now. We know how to repair these parts and more, and we can do so safely, quickly, and effectively. If you would like, we can even send you a quotation by email.
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