How to Make a Spring in SOLIDWORKS

Contents

The usual way to make a spring in SOLIDWORKS is to create a helix curve and sweep a circular profile along it. The helix defines the spring path, and the sweep profile defines the wire diameter. This method works well for simple compression springs, extension springs, and visual spring models.

For engineering-critical springs, the CAD model is only part of the work. You still need proper spring calculations, material selection, end conditions, and manufacturing checks. The steps below focus on building a clean SOLIDWORKS model.

Spring model in SOLIDWORKS — A basic spring can be modeled from a helix and a swept circular profile.

Create the helix path

Start a new part.
Choose a plane and sketch a circle. The circle diameter controls the starting diameter of the helix.
Exit the sketch.
Go to Insert > Curve > Helix/Spiral, or use the Curves toolbar.
Set the helix definition, such as pitch and revolution count or height and revolutions.
Accept the helix.

Sketch circle for a SOLIDWORKS helix — The sketch circle controls the main diameter of the helix.

Helix settings in SOLIDWORKS — Use pitch, height, and revolutions to control the spring shape.

Create the wire profile

Next, create a plane or sketch at the end of the helix and draw a small circle for the wire cross-section. The diameter of this circle becomes the wire diameter of the spring. Keep the profile centered on the start point of the helix for the cleanest sweep.

The sweep profile controls the spring wire diameter.

Sweep the profile along the helix

Start Swept Boss/Base.
Select the circular sketch as the profile.
Select the helix as the path.
Preview the feature and confirm the wire follows the full helix.
Accept the sweep.

Swept Boss Base spring in SOLIDWORKS — Swept Boss/Base turns the wire profile and helix path into the spring body.

Add flat or closed ends

A simple swept helix makes a basic coil, but many real springs have closed, ground, or flat ends. For a visual model, you can trim or add end features. For a functional model, design the end condition according to the actual spring requirements.

Spring end detail in SOLIDWORKS — End treatment depends on whether the model is visual or manufacturing-ready.

Control pitch, height, and turns

If the spring is too tall, too short, or has the wrong spacing, edit the helix feature. Common controls include pitch, height, number of revolutions, and direction. Keep these values named or documented if the spring is part of a larger assembly.

Editing spring helix dimensions in SOLIDWORKS — Edit the helix feature when you need to change pitch, height, or turns.

Spring modeling tips

Use simple geometry when the spring is only for visual context.
Suppress detailed threads or spring coils in large assemblies if performance becomes slow.
Use configurations for compressed and extended positions when needed.
Do not rely on a visual spring model for load calculations.
Check interferences if the spring sits inside a mechanism or housing.