Spring steel is a low alloy, medium carbon steel or high carbon steel with very high yield strength. This allows objects made of spring steel to return to their original shape despite significant bending or twisting.
Spring steel is commonly used in the manufacture of metal springs, such as those used in suspension systems, seatbelts and clutches. Springs offer flexibility and vibration dampening, and reduce friction, making them a critical component of many engineering projects. In addition, spring steel is an excellent material for creating large, long-lasting machine and automotive parts.
Spring steel can be either cold rolled or hot rolled. Cold rolled spring steel is more readily available and is made of higher carbon steel. This type of spring steel is known for withstanding fatigue and is more often used in small springs that are subject to regular use and strain. Hot rolled spring steel is more common and widely used in larger springs, due to its superior strength and flexibility.
In addition to its superior mechanical properties, spring steel is also known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. When the spring steel is coated with zinc, the zinc serves as a protective coating, acting as a barrier against airborne chemical pollutants, moisture and other environmental factors. This allows the spring steel to remain strong and effective for long periods of time, even in harsher environments.
Because of its properties, spring steel is a key material for many industries and applications. Its strength and corrosion resistance make it a popular choice for creating parts for all types of machinery, from automobiles, to industrial equipment, to medical devices. Spring steel is also a key component in aerospace and marine engineering, and it is often incorporated into building materials, such as house siding and decking.
Spring steel is an incredibly versatile and important material, and its unique properties have made it a staple of many industries. From automotive parts and hand tools to medical devices and aerospace technology, spring steel is a valuable material for creating components and products that are built to last.