spring wires

The spring production process moves quickly once you have the perfect design in place. But it’s the design phase that actually makes the difference in mechanical spring performance. When working with precision springs, there are many things that you should take into account, from spring measurements to the application that it will be placed within.

One of the most important decisions you can make is the material used to build your springs. Different materials have different properties that greatly affect spring performance, so choose wisely. Here are the properties you should take into consideration when choosing a material for your springs:

Temperature

Can your springs take the heat? If they will be placed in an environment that has extreme temperatures, you need to choose a material that will not weaken when heat is applied to it. Stainless steel springs can perform in temperatures up to several hundred degrees Fahrenheit.

If you need a material that can withstand very high temperatures, up to 1600 degrees Fahrenheit, then inconel carbon is what you are looking for.

Corrosion

If you springs will be subjected to water or placed in other corrosive environments, you want to choose a material that has a high corrosion resistance. High nickel alloys are known for their corrosion resistance, as are stainless steel springs.

Stress

How much force will be applied to your springs? If your springs need to deflect a long distance, you need a malleable metal that can move that distance and simultaneously maintain its strength while doing so.

Magnetism

Does magnetism play a role in your spring environment? If it does, you don’t want your spring being attracted and pulled towards (or away from) parts of your instrument or product. If you are using magnetic parts, you want a material that is completely non-magnetic.

Conductivity

Will your springs need to carry current while they work? If so, you want a material that acts as a good conductor of electricity. If you don’t want current to travel through your springs, then stick with a material and coating that insulates.

Tell Us What You Need

At The Yost Superior Co., we have more than 100 years of experience designing and manufacturing custom precision springs for customers across a huge range of industries. There is no spring requirements we haven’t seen, so if you need something in particular, make sure to let us know when you request a quote for your order.