Spring selection starts with the reel
A rewind spring stores energy as the cord is pulled out and supplies torque to return the reel. Cord travel alone does not define the spring: the drum geometry, friction, installation preload and attachment details also matter.
We make springs for vacuum cleaner cord reels, retractable data cables, pet leash mechanisms and fishing tethers. We match the spring to the reel geometry, available space and return force you need.
Define the pull and return requirements
- Motion: total cord travel, usable drum diameter and working turns.
- Load: pull or return force at stated cord positions, or torque at stated angles. Include units and the direction of measurement.
- Space: housing inside diameter and depth, arbor diameter, clearances and end attachments.
- Installation: winding direction, preload and intended travel stops.
- Duty: target cycles, operating speed, temperature, moisture and corrosion exposure.
- Commercial input: sample quantity, production quantity and intended schedule.
If the return force changes through the travel, provide several force-versus-travel points. A single maximum load can leave the start and end of the stroke undefined.
Materials and strip dimensions
We work with SUS301, SUS304, SK5, 65Mn and 60Si2Mn. Tell us the operating environment and material requirements; we will confirm a suitable grade and processing route for the spring design.
Across our flat-strip products, the processing range is 0.1–0.6 mm thick and 1–100 mm wide, depending on the product, material and thickness–width combination. We confirm the strip dimensions together with the required torque, working turns and reel space.
Drawing or sample development
Send a PDF, DWG, DXF or STEP drawing with the spring and housing details you have. Without a drawing, photographs or a sample can start the work. Add the available space, cord travel and required return force so we can review the spring in its installed position.
We carry out strip slitting and setting heat treatment in-house. We confirm the forming route, end attachments and inspection requirements for the spring. If the project includes a life target, we agree the operating conditions and evaluation method with you.
Questions before requesting a quote
Can you work from an existing spring?
Yes. Send the existing spring with the reel dimensions, attachment details and operating requirements. If the sample is worn, tell us the intended return force and travel so we can work towards the required performance.
Is a cord reel spring always a constant force spring?
Specify the mechanism and required output instead of selecting by name alone. A reel needs torque at its shaft; the force at the cord also depends on the drum geometry. We can review the appropriate spring construction from those requirements.
What sample quantity, MOQ and timing should I plan for?
A typical starting quantity is 10 samples, with a production MOQ of 500 pieces. Samples generally take 7–10 days; normal production takes 10–15 days depending on quantity and spring complexity. We confirm the quantities, tooling, how days are counted, the start date and the schedule for your project in the quotation.
How do we agree tolerances and operating life?
Mark the critical dimensions and tolerances on your drawing. For durability, provide the target cycles, travel, load and operating environment. We will agree the measurement method and acceptance criteria for the actual spring design.
Discuss your spring requirements
Send a spring drawing, sample or reel photographs with the required return force, travel and quantity. We can help confirm which dimensions are needed next.