Spring Steel

Product Details:

The selection of materials used in spring fabrication and design in general is determined by knowing the tensile and yield strengths of the various alloyed metals. In making spring steel, in addition to its carbon content, which is generally in the range of 0.5% to 1.0%, spring steels may also be alloyed with combinations of nickel, manganese, chrome, vanadium, molybdenum or other elements. However, the one common element that is a must in the composition and manufacture of spring steels is silicon. This material is highly regarded for its durability as well as its ability to retain its shape and flexibility. Its alloying properties are not only particularly well-suited for use in alloy spring steel applications, but its characteristics help give the material its defining high-yield strength. Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, with other elements added to enhance its properties. There are different types of steel, each with unique properties, depending on their specific composition and processing techniques. Spring steel is a specific type of steel, engineered for its high yield strength, elasticity, hardness and resilience, which makes it suitable for use in springs and other applications such as retaining clips and tabs. In terms of which is better, it really depends on the application. For components like springs, automotive suspension components, and other mechanical parts that must withstand cyclical stresses, spring steel is superior to alloy steels. However, for applications that don’t require high elasticity, resilience, and tensile strength, regular or other forms of steel will be suitable and more cost-effective. There are downsides to using spring steel such as the extra considerations needed for machining and welding it.