Springs are one of the most versatile and useful products on the market. You may not realize how crucial springs are, because most of the time they are accessories to something else, such as your wristwatch or the shock system in your vehicle. If you are working on a project that calls for spring use, it is important to familiarize yourself with the quality and characteristics of various spring material. Each material has its own set of strengths and weaknesses.
What to Consider
If you need a new spring, there are certain characteristics you should be looking for. Say, for example, that you are looking for a replacement spring. Chances are you will be able to determine exactly what you need based on the specifications of the spring you are replacing. If you do not have the specifications needed for the spring, then you will have to consider other factors. This calls for an analysis of the different materials on the market and their various properties. Here are some important factors of spring material that you should consider:
- Performance under various temperatures
- Heat resistance
- Reactions to humidity
- Corrosiveness of the environment
- Pressure needed for optimal performance
Familiarizing yourself with some of these characteristics can help you or a spring manufacturer pin point exactly which material will serve you best.
The Most Common Spring Material
Some of the most common types of spring material include:
- stainless steel
- beryllium copper
- music wire
Stainless steel is not the strongest material, although it does withstand corrosion better than most. Beryllium copper is able to withstand subzero temperatures and can also conduct high levels of electricity. Music wire is perhaps the most common material due to its versatility and price. Music wire is a high-carbon steel wire and although it is durable, should not be used for high impact or large moving equipment.