The History of RINGFEDER® Friction Spring: From Invention to Earthquake Protection

Ringfeder Friction Springs are a groundbreaking invention in the field of motion transmission and damping. Since their inception in the 1920s, this technology has been continuously improved to serve key industries such as railways, aviation, and construction.

1. The Advent of Ringfeder Friction Springs

In 1922, engineer Ernst Kreissig invented and patented the Ringfeder Friction Springs. The goal of this invention was to create a more efficient energy absorption system compared to traditional steel springs. This technology utilizes nested steel rings, which generate frictional force to absorb shocks and enhance durability.

Initially, Ringfeder friction springs were applied in buffer systems between train cars, helping to reduce impact forces when trains moved or braked suddenly. Due to their superior performance, these springs were soon adopted in various other fields.

2. The Evolution of Friction Springs: From Traditional Leaf Spring Dampers to Advanced Damping Solutions

Historically, Friction Springs or leaf spring dampers consisted of metal bars with cushioning plates at the front. The other end of the bar was connected to a Moving Mount, combined with a coil spring housed in a sturdy sheet metal sleeve. However, this design had several drawbacks, particularly its tendency to deform over time, leading to severe damage in accidents.

To overcome these limitations, piston-style dampers were introduced. These featured a cushioning plate mounted on a larger-diameter steel tube, which enhanced bending resistance and improved energy absorption efficiency. However, the coil spring systems initially used in these dampers had a critical flaw—they could not fully release the absorbed energy upon compression. This resulted in vehicles being pushed apart after collisions, compromising safety.

Consequently, train braking systems had to be evenly distributed rather than applied selectively, preventing vibrations that could break couplings between train cars. The continuous advancement of damping technology has focused on refining Ringfeder Friction Springs, ensuring superior shock absorption, efficient vibration control, and enhanced motion transmission. These improvements have significantly increased the safety and stability of modern transportation systems.

3. How has earthquake design philosophy changed?

To be precise, RINGFEDER POWER TRANSMISSION began developing reliable earthquake protection solutions over 25 years ago. It all started with friction springs used for seismic protection of AEG's electrical switches and General Electric's generator platforms. However, by that time, the company's focus on the industrial sector had already progressed significantly. While earthquake protection was seen as a new and intriguing business area, the primary emphasis lay elsewhere.

This image depicts surge arresters equipped with 4 tension-compression devices and RINGFEDER® friction springs installed as base supports, enhancing the flexibility of the arrester.

Back then, the design philosophy for earthquake protection was entirely different from today. Buildings were constructed to be as rigid as possible to maximize earthquake resistance. The primary goal was to ensure the safety of the occupants, while the potential destruction of the building and its subsequent unusability were considered secondary concerns. Today, however, such losses are no longer economically sustainable, as evidenced by the table below, which lists the ten costliest earthquakes for insurance companies.

4. Applications of Friction Springs

4.1. In Industry

Since their introduction, Ringfeder friction springs have become essential in high-load mechanical systems. Some notable applications include:

- Shock absorbers in trucks and military vehicles: Helps reduce vibrations and protect vehicle structures from harsh road conditions.

- Dampers in aircraft landing gear: Increases the durability of aircraft frames upon landing.

- Motion control in industrial machinery: Reduces vibrations and extends the lifespan of engines.

The flexible design and effective force absorption capabilities of Ringfeder friction springs have made them indispensable solutions in modern industries.

4.2. In Earthquake-Resistant Structures

One of the most significant applications of Ringfeder friction springs is in earthquake-resistant building and bridge systems. When seismic activity occurs, these springs absorb and disperse energy, minimizing the risk of structural collapse.

Many countries have adopted this technology to protect skyscrapers, factories, and critical infrastructure, such as hospitals, fire stations, water supply facilities, and power plants. Ringfeder friction springs play a crucial role in enhancing building safety thanks to their high load-bearing capacity and durability.

5. Trusted Supplier of Ringfeder Friction Springs – Dai Hong Phat Corp

In Vietnam, Dai Hong Phat Corp is an Authorized Distributor of RINGFEDER^® Friction Springs. With years of experience in supplying industrial equipment, Dai Hong Phat^® is committed to delivering high-quality products that meet the needs of various industries.

Why Choose Dai Hong Phat^®?

- Genuine Products: We guarantee 100% authentic RINGFEDER^® Friction Springs, ensuring superior quality and performance.

- Professional Technical Team: Our experienced engineers are ready to advise and help you select the most suitable products for your needs.

- Dedicated Support Service: We provide full assistance throughout the purchasing and product usage process.

- Competitive Pricing: We offer the most competitive prices in the market.

If you are looking for an effective damping solution, contact Dai Hong Phat^® for expert consultation on Ringfeder friction springs.
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