Spring Steel
Spring steel is a name used to describe a variety of steels used for industrial purposes. It is usually grouped into low-alloy or high-alloy steels, and is typically used for either cold-rolled or hot-rolled applications. The term “spring steel” describes the versatility and durability of the steel, which makes it a desirable choice for many types of industrial applications.
Types of Spring Steel
Low-alloy spring steel is used in applications such as cold-formed steel springs, fastener components, and structural components. The most common type is AISI 1070, which is primarily constructed of carbon and manganese. However, some other alloying elements, such as molybdenum and chromium, may be added as well to improve certain characteristics of the material.
High-alloy spring steels are also available and are used in higher stress applications, such as suspension and drivetrain components. These steels typically contain additional elements beyond carbon and manganese, such as cobalt, nickel, and vanadium. High-alloy steels can range from 1040 to 1095, which are usually employed for the production of shock absorbers, coil springs, and flat springs.
Production of Spring Steel
Spring steel must be produced in order to have the correct properties required for use in industrial applications. The production process starts with pre-heating and normalising of the steel in order to increase the toughness of the material. The steel is then hot-rolled into strips and wires, which are further processed into springs either by heat-treating or cold-forming. Heat-treating is usually employed for high-alloy steels, and involves quenching the material in order to obtain improved properties and hardness. Cold-forming is employed for low-alloy steels, and can be used to obtain certain complicated shapes, such as coils or helical shapes.
During the production process, the steel may also be coated with a protective layer in order to help prevent corrosion. The thickness of this coating may range from one to several micrometres, depending on the application.
Uses of Spring Steel
Spring steel is an incredibly versatile material and can be used in many different types of applications. It is used to make springs for a variety of applications, such as garage door springs, agricultural equipment, car brakes, and valves. It is also used to make fastener components, such as screws and bolts, and can be found in many industrial machines. Spring steel is also often used in suspension systems, as it can be made into complex shapes such as helical coils, and can also absorb and release energy as needed, making it an ideal choice for shock absorbers. Spring steel is also often used for flat springs, such as those used in industrial equipment, as well as for tension, compression, and torsion springs.
Spring steel is a popular choice for many industrial applications due to its high strength and durability. It is able to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures, and can be made into complex shapes, making it a desirable choice for a variety of uses.
