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A coil spring is a mechanical device which is typically used to store energy and then release it, to absorb shock, or to maintain a force between contacting surfaces. They are made of elastic material that forms a spiral shape and returns to its natural length when unloaded. Under tension or compression, the material (wire) of a coil spring is subjected to twisting. Therefore, the spring properties depend on the shear modulus, not on the Young's modulus. Helical springs can also be used as custom double torsion springs: In this case, the spring as a whole is subjected to torsion about its helical axis. Consequently, the material of the spring is subjected to a bending moment, ie a reduction or increase in the helix radius. In this mode, it is the Young's modulus of the material that determines the spring properties. Metal coil springs are cylinders made by winding metal wire around a shaped former to form a cylindrical coil spring.