Definition:
Spring steel is a name given to a wide range of steels used in the manufacture of springs, prominently in automotive and industrial suspension applications. These steels are generally low-alloy, medium-carbon steel or high-carbon steel with a very high yield strength.
History:
The use of spring steel dates back to the days of ancient China and Egypt when they were used to create objects such as hair sticks, knives and swords. In modern times, it was first used during World War I to manufacture the springs which were used in mortar shells and other artillery pieces. After the war, spring steel was used in the automotive industry to create suspension components and help reduce vibrations and road noise. Today, spring steel is still widely used in many industries, such as aerospace, automotive, and medical, because of its wide range of properties.
Basic Characteristics:
Spring steel is a special type of steel specifically manufactured for the purpose of making springs. It has a slightly higher carbon content than regular steel and is often alloyed with other metals such as manganese, nickel and silicon to further increase its strength and durability.
Spring steel is typically used because of its elasticity, high tensile strength, and superb fatigue life which makes it ideal for applications which require the performance of a tough, resilient material. Spring steel is an extremely formable material and can be easily molded and shaped for use in any kind of spring or suspension component.
Applications:
Spring steel is primarily used in applications which require the strength and endurance to stand up to heavy loads and to cope with extreme temperature changes.
One of the most common uses of spring steel is in the automotive industry where it is used to manufacture suspension components as well as clutch and brake plates. Spring steel is also used in the manufacture of watch components, such as balance springs, as well as electrical equipment, tools, medical instruments, and tools such as hammers and spades.
Other potential applications of spring steel include manufacturing orthopedic implants, flat springs, wave springs, and wave washers.
Main Types:
The most common types of spring steel are high-carbon steel, alloy steel, and stainless steel.
High-carbon steel is the most commonly used type of spring steel and is known for its excellent strength and resilience. It is often alloyed with other metals to increase its strength and formability.
Alloy steel is a combination of different metals, such as manganese, nickel and silicon, and is known for its excellent tensile strength and wear resistance.
Finally, stainless steel is a durable, corrosion-resistant material which is often used in applications which require resistance to extreme temperatures and chemical exposure.
European Grades:
When it comes to spring steel, it is also important to take into account the grade of the steel being used. In Europe, spring steel is usually identified by the following grades:
EN 10270-1 – This grade of spring steel is most commonly used in the automotive industry. It is also often used for making suspension components and other metal parts for machinery.
EN 10270-2 – This grade of spring steel is mainly used for making watch components and other high-precision products such as measuring instruments and optical materials.
EN 10270-3 – This grade of spring steel is used mainly for making industrial springs and other components. It is also often used for making flat springs and wave springs.
Conclusion:
Spring steel is a versatile material with a wide range of uses, from the automotive industry to medical applications. It is an extremely resilient material, with excellent strength, durability and formability, making it ideal for applications which require strong, resilient materials. Spring steel is also relatively inexpensive and can be easily sourced in grades which are suitable for a wide range of applications.
