In this video and article, we will go over the importance of Kage’s compression springs. This feature is much more efficient than other types of springs including “stretch” or extension springs for several reasons including longer lasting life and better performance!

Why are Compression Springs Better?

The springs that create the action of the trip edge are vital to the reliability of the trip mechanism. There are two types of trip springs – stretch/extension and compression springs. The stretch springs found on many snow blades have a short life and cause aggravating down time in the middle of an event. Kage’s trip springs compress rather than stretch to do their job. Compression springs have a much greater life than stretch springs. Kage springs are also extra stiff and aggressive. Springs on other brands tend to be too weak causing them to trip prematurely while plowing packed, driven-on snow. A blade that constantly chatters across the surface because of wimpy springs wastes precious time and is very aggravating for the operator.

The difference between Extension Springs and Compression Springs

Compression springs are designed to work differently. They are generally made out of larger gauge wire and are not wound in tight coils. Compression springs may have rings on each end which support their loads. The compression spring contains the most potential energy when it has been pushed together. The spring returns to its natural position, releasing its energy along the way.

The damage that an extension spring can sustain is a stretch past its natural limits. Once the coils of an extension spring are damaged, it cannot return to its original state of tension. The primary function of an extension spring is allowing an outside force to create tension but then using potential energy to pull the components back together.