Official Answer
Answer
Stacking springs in 'series' (crest-to-crest) increases the total deflection while keeping the load constant for a given deflection of a single spring. The total rate $K_{total} = _x000c_rac{k}{n}$. Stacking in 'parallel' (nested) increases the load capacity while keeping the deflection range the same as a single spring. The total rate $K_{total} = k imes n$. In series stacking, alignment is the primary concern; spacers or a guide rod/housing are necessary to prevent buckling. In parallel stacking, friction between the nested layers can lead to hysteresis, where the loading curve is higher than the unloading curve. Engineers must account for this energy dissipation in damping applications.
