Handbook

of Spring
Design

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 Table of Contents u
A Fundamentals
How te Use this Handbook
D 0
Introduction
Helical Extension Springs
77
i
Selecling Spring Configurations 3 Inicial Tension 78
Glossary of Spring Terminology 10 Types of Ends 79
Bibliographical References 12 Extension Spring Dimensions 81
Reference Information 13 Design Equations 81
Choice of Operating Stress - Static 82
Spring Materials J
Choice of Operating Stress - Cyclic 82
Clearances 83
Chemical and Physical Characteristics Tolerances 83
Elastic Modulus How te Specify 84
Magnate Characteristies Extension Spring Design Example 84
Heat Treatment of Springs Final Design Specificalions 86
Environmental Considerations
Stress Relaxation Torsion Springs
Corrosion
Spring Wire Introduction 87
Cost and Availability Number of Turns 87
Spring Strip Mean Diameter 87
Other Spring Materials Length 88
Specifying Hardness Spring Rate 88
Glossary of Spring Wire Terms Stress 89
End Configurations 89
Compression Springs Choice of Operating Stress - Static
Choice of Operating Stress - Cyclic
90
91
Introduction Double Torsion Springs 91
Helical Compression Spring Terminology Rectangular Wire 92
Spring Diameter Tolerances 93
Spring Index How te Specify 93
Free Length Design Example 93
Types el Ends Final Design Specifications 95
Number of Coils Symbols for Spring Terms 96
Solid Height
Direction of Coiling Tolerancing Guidelines 5J
Squareness and Parallelism
Hysteresis Introduction 97
Spring Rate Warning 97
Stress Compression Spring Load Tolerances 98
Loads Quality Grades for Load Tolerances 100
Buckling el Compression Springs Compression Spring Free Length Tolerances 100
Choice el Operating Stress - Static Conditions Extension Spring Load Tolerances 100
Choice of Operating Stress - Cyclic Applications Quality Grades for Extension Spring Load Tolerances 102
Fatigue Life Estimation Example Extension Spring Free Length Tolerances 102
Dynamic Loading - Impact Torsion Spring Load Tolerances (Torque) 104
Dynamic Loading - Resonance Quality Grades for Torsion Spring Load Tolerances 105
Special Springs Tolerances for Hot Coiled Springs 107
Rectangular Wire
Stranded Wire Springs
Variable Diameter Springs
Variable Pitch
Nested Compression Springs
Commercial Tolerances
Acceptable Quality Leve¡ (AQL)
Packaging
How te Specify Symbols for Spring Terms inside back cover
Compression Spring Design Example
Final Design Specifications

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, iii

 Figure Name Page
1 Design Sequence 2
2 Relaxation vs. Initial Stress for Spring Materials 21
3 Relaxation vs. Temperatura for Spring Materials 21
4 Minimum Tensile Strengths for Spring Wire 25
5 Minimum Transverse Bending Radii for Various Tempers and Thicknesses
of Tempered Spring Steel 28
6 Orientation of Bend Axis to Rolling Direction for Transverse and
Longitudinal Bends 28
7 Tensile Strength vs. Hardness of Quenched and Tempered Spring Steel 29
8 Edges Available on Steel Strip 30
9 Mínimum Safe Thinknesses for Hardness Testing Hard Materials 33
10 Minimum Safe Thinknesses for Hardness Testing Soft Materials 33
11 Dimensional Terminology for Helical Compression Springs 49
12 Types of Ends for Helical Compression Springs 51
13 Direction of Coiling Helical Compression Springs 52
14 Typical Load Deflection Curve for Helical Compression Springs 53
15 Wahl Stress Correction Factors for Round Wire Helical Compression
and Extension Springs 54
16 Load Deflection Curve for a Variable Rate Spring 55
17 Critica) Buckling Condition Curves 56
18 End Conditions Used to Determine Critica) Buckling 57
19 Spring Load-Carrying Ability vs. Amount of Set Removed 58
20 Spring Relaxation Data for Various Materials 60
21 Modified Goodman Diagram for Estimating Fatigue Life 63
22 Velocity of en Object Propelled by a Compression Spring 65
23 Transmissibility of Spring Mounting 66
24 Wire Cross Section Before and After Coiling 67
25 Rectangular Wire Compression Spring Wound on Flat or Edge 68
26 Constants for Rectangular Wire in Torsion 68
27 Stress Correction Factors for Rectangular Wire Compression
Springs Wound on Flat 69
28 Stress Correction Factors for Rectangular Wire Compression
Springs Wound on Edge 69
29 Conical, Barrel and Hourglass Springs, Respectively 71
30 Typical Load Deflection Curve for Variable Diameter Springs (Solid Line) 71
31 Typical Variable Pitch Helical Compression Spring 72
32 Tangled Springs and Special Spring Packaging 73
33 Drawbar Spring Provides a Solid Stop 77
34 Load Deflection Curve for a Helical Extension Spring with Initial Tension 78
35 Torsional Stress Dueto Initial Tension as a Function of Index
in Helical Extension Springs 79
36 Common End Configurations for Helical Extension Springs 80
37 Location of Maximum Bending and Torsion Stresses in Twist Loops 81
38 Typical Extension Spring Dimensions 81
39 Specitying Load and Deflection Requirements for Torsion Springs 88
40 Common Helical Torsion Spring End Configurations 90
41 Preferred Winding for Double-Bodied Torsion Springs 92
42 Keystoned Cross Sections of Springs Wound on Edge and Flat 93
43 Compression Spring 99
44 Extension Spring 102
45 Torsion Spring 104

iv, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

Table Name Page
1 Spring Configurations 4-7
2 Energy Storage Capacity (ESC) of Various Spring Configurations 9
3 Conversion Factors 13
4 Common Abbreviations. 13
5 Common Symbols 14
6 Approximate Conversions for Carbon Steel Between Hardness
Scales and Tensile Strengths 14
7 Typical Properties of Common Spring Materials 16
8 Magnetic Characteristics of Some Materials 18
9 Typical Heat Treatments for Springs After Forming 19
10 Guide for Selecting Minimum Thicknesses for Zinc and Cadmium Coatings 22
11 Order of Nobility 23
12 Salt Spray Resistance of Common Barrier Finishes 24
13 Preferred Diameters for Spring Steel Wire 26
14 Ranking of Relativa Coats of Common Spring Wires 27
15 Standard Tolerances for Spring Wire 27
16 Formability of Annealed Spring Steels 30
17 Typical High-Carbon Strip Thickness Tolerances 31
18 Typical Properties of Spring Temper Alloy Strip 32
19 Recommended Hardneiss Scales for Hard and Soft Spring Alloys 32
20 Properties of Spring Ma terials 37
21 Minimum Tensile Stren th of Wire Spring Materials-Ferrous 44
22 Minimum Tensile Stren th of Wire Spring Materials-Stainless Steels 46
23 Wire Size Tolerance C arts 47
24 Guidelines for Dimensional Characteristics of Compression Springs 51
25 Maximum Allowable T rsional Stresses for Helical Compression
Springs in Static Applic tions 58
26 Maximum Allowable Torsional Stresses for Round Wire Helical
Compression Springs in Cyclic Applications 62
27 Maximum Allowable Stfesses for Helical Extension Springs
in Static Applications 82
28 Maximum Allowable Stresses for ASTM A228 and Type 302 Stainless
Steel Helical Springs in Cyclic Applications 83
29 Maximum Recommended Bending Stresses for Helical Torsion
Springs in Static Applications 91
30 Maximum Recommended Bending Stresses for Helical Torsion
Springs in Cyclic Applications 91
31 Free Length Tolerance, Metric 103
32 Free Length Tolerance, English 103
33 End Position Tolerance 103
34 Body Diameter Tolerances for Compression, Extension and Torsion Springs 106
35 Permissible Variations in Outside Diameter of Spring 107
36 Permissible Variations Solid Height 108
37 Permissible Deviations, Springs with Ground Ends 109
38 Permissible Squareness Deviation, Springs with Ground Ends 110
39 Permissible Squareness Deviation, Springs with Unground Ends 110

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, v

vi, SMI Handbook of Spring Design
 Fundamentals
This handbook iswritten for design engineers, asa practica) guide te those responsible
for designing springs. Springs are flexible members that store energy. Design considerations
for members that experience larga deflections are quite different from those used for rigid
structures. A sufficient amount of detail has been included so that those designers without
access te a computerized program can generate an optimum solution te a spring design
problem.

Many designs do not perform well in service dueto incompleta or unclear definition. The
assumption is made throughoul this handbook that the designer knows the functional
requirements of a spring, its space limitations, the environment in which it operates, its
service requirements and any special considerations. Functional requirements are usually
expressed as a load ata test position and/or a spring rate. Space limitations are defined by
describing the envelope in which a spring is expected te operate. Environment can be
characterized by the operating temperatura and a description of substances in contact with a
spring. Service requirements are the expected life, frequency of loading, rata of loading and
permissible relaxation. Special considerations might involve, for example, restrictions due te
assembly, electrical conductivity or magnetic requirements. Te make a cost-effective design,
it is essential te have the design problem clearly defined.

This handbook follows the design sequence illustrated in Figure 1, paga 2. Selecting
Spring Configurations reviews the methodology for choosing the best type of spring
configuration te perform an intended function. Frequently, the choice of configuration is
obvious te experienced designers. The inexperienced, and occasionally the experienced,
designer (in critica) situations ) should first review spring configuration te be sure that the most
cost-effective configuration has been selected. The second major design decision is choice of
material . Spring Materials gives information required te select one or two candidata materials
for the design. Remaining portions of this book discuss each type of spring configuration in detail.
These sections enable a designer, having chosen the configuration and material, te select a
stress leve), design a spring and then specify the spring te a springmaker. In many cases,
examples are included te demonstrate the design process. In most sections,
recommendations are made en stress levels for both fatigue and static service.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 1

 Define
Design Problem

i
Select Spring
Configuration

Select
Material

F-
Select
Stress Leve¡

1
Design to
Optimize

i
Check Design

i
Specify

Figure 1 . Design Sequence

Material recommendations and design methods discussed here are the result of many years
of experience and have proven to be reliable. Spring design is a very complex subject.
Frequently the state of stress is not accurately known. Geometrical configurations are often
difficult to describe mathematically. Simplifying assumptions have been made which, in some
cases, may lead to inaccuracies. When parts are made to a design, fabrication
considerations are occasionally encountered that alter performance. Materials do nol always
behave as predicted. Although the best judgment has been used in writing this handbook,
resulting design will not always be optimum. For critica) springs it is advisable to cal) on the
experience of SMI member company engineering staff, and to have samples made and
tested prior to committing a design to production.

Many designers have computers to support their design efforts. SMI has software available to
support design efforts that conform to material in this handbook. You may contactan SMI member
companydirectly about the availability of this material. Nevertheless, notes on how to specify a spring,
manufacturing tips and other information dedicated to a specific spring configuration should
be reviewed. This information is not generally available in design programs and yet frequently
is necessary to achieve the most cost-effective design.

2, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

 TYPE CONFIGURATION ACTION

Helical Compression

Push - wide load and

deflection range -
constant rafe.

} } Push - wide load and

Conical Barre) deflection range.
Round and Conical spring can be
Rectangular made with minimum
W ire
1
solid height and with
constant or increasing
t rafe. Barre ), hourglass,
Constant Pitch
and variable-pitch
springs used to
minimize resonant
surging and vibration.
} f
Hourglass Variable Pitch

Spring Washer
Push - high loads, low
deflections - choice of
Belleville retes (constant,
increasing, or
decreasing).

Push - light loads, low

W ave deflection-uses limited
radial space.

Push - higher
Slotted deflections than
bellevilles.

Push - for axial loading

Finger of bearings.

Push - used to absorb

Curved axial end play.

Table 1 . Spring Configurations.

4, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

Selecting Spring Configurations
It is essential that a designar select the optimum spring contiguration to perform en intended function.
A three-step procedure has been developed for this task. The first step is to define the primary spring
function in terms of push, pul¡, twist or energy storage. The second step is to review various alternativa
contiguration and select one or two best candidates. The third step is to review candidate configurations
with respect to cost and special considerations.

Having defined primary spring function as either push, pul¡ or twist, the next step is to review ahl possible
spring configurations that perform this function and select the one that meets space requirements most
economically. Various spring configurations are listed on paga 4 in Tabla 1 with helpful comments to aid in
selecting one or two candidates. Helical compression springs, spring washers, volute springs and beam
springs all perform a push function. For larga deflections, helical compression springs are most commonly
chosen; for small deflections, spring washers are most common. Volute springs have high damping
capacity and good resistance to buckling, but are not common because of relatively high manufacturing
costs. Beam springs are produced in a wide variety of shapes and can push or pull. Frequently, beam
springs are required for functions in addition to the spring function, and sometimes are en integral
element of a larger part.

Helical torsion and spiral spring configurations perform the twist function. Helical torsion springs are often
used as a counterbalance for doors, lids or other mechanisms that rotate on a shaft. Spiral hair springs
have a low hysteresis and are used in instruments and watches. Brush springs received their name
from their primary application of holding brushes against commutators in electric motors. Power springs
are often callad clock or motor springs and are used to store energy for clocks, toys and other devices.
Prestressed power springs are a special type of power spring that has a very high energy storage
capacity and is most commonly used on refractors for seat belts. Constant force springs provide an
essentially constant torque ovar many revolutions.

The pulí tunction is performed by extension springs, drawbar spring assemblies and constan force
springs, with helical extension springs being most common. Drawbar spring assemblies are useful when
a fixed stop is required. Constant force springs are similar to power springs; however, they are loaded by
pul] rather than twist.

Retaining rings and garter springs were especially developed to perform either push or pull. Retaining
rings retain or locate parts in bearings and on shafts. Garter springs are used primarily in oil seals.

Often a spring design function is expressed in terms of energy storage capacity. In machines, springs
are fequently used to store kinetic energy from moving components during deceleration and release this
energy during acceleration to reduce peak loads. Spring motors are used to power clocks, toys and many
other mechanical devices. Torsion springs are used in window shades and garage doors, primarily for
their ability to store energy.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 3

 TYPE CONFIGURATION ACTION

Volute

Push - may have

inherently high friction
damping.

Beam

Cantilever, Push or poli - wide

Rectangular range of loads, low
Section deflection range.

Cantilever,
Trapezoidal
Section

Simple Beam

Helical Torsion

--}}ryry{}}¡^i}
Rou nd or
Rectangular Twist - conslani rafe.
Wire

Spiral

Hairspring Twist

Brush Twist or Push.

Table 1 (continuad). Spring Configurations.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 5

 Twist - exerts torque
over many turns.
Supplied in retainer.

Twist - exerts torque

over many turns.
Supplied in retainer.

Constant Force Spring Motor

Twist- exerts Glose-to-

constant torque over
many turns.

Table 1 (continued). Spring Configurations.

6, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

 TYPE CONFIGURATION ACTION

Helical Extension

Pull - wide load and

deflection range -
constant rete.

Drawbar

Pull - extension to a
solid stop.

Constant Force

Pul¡- very long

O deflection at constant
load or low rete.

Retaining Rings

Round or Pul¡ or push - to resist

Rectangular + axial loads.
Wire

Garter

Extension Pull with radial pressure.

^ r
Push with radial
Compression pressure.

\
y

Table 1 (continued). Spring Configurations.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 7

 Energy storage capacity (ESC) is defined as the amount of work done by a spring or the energy stored
per unit volume of active spring material. Energy storage capacity is proportlonal to the square of the
maximum operating stress leve), divided by the modulus of elasticity, multiplied by a constant. Theoretical
capacities are shown for various spring configurations in Table 2, page 9. Space efficiency, another
measure of spring design efficiency, is the volume of active spring material divided by the volume of the
envelope occupied by the spring when fully deflected. The product of ESC and space efficiency is the
amount of energy a spring configuration can store per unir volume of the envelope it occupies. Typical
ranges of energy storage capacity per unit volume of envelope for some spring geometries are also listed
in Table 2, page 9. These values are approximate, and refer to springs in fully deflected positions without
regard to inactivo material or stress correction factors. The space efficiency concept is not meaningful for
some spring configurations, such as cantilevers and extension springs. Prestressed power springs, power
springs and helical compression spring designs are most suitable for energy storage applications.

ESC divided by the product of the density and cost per pound gives energy storage ability per unit cosí.
This is a convenient method for making rough comparisons of various spring materials.

The final step in the selection process is to consider other restrictions imposed by design criteria . Cost is
always a restriction. Although specific comments on cost cannot be addressed until a spring is designed,
some useful generalizations can be considered here. Custom designed springs from wire are generally
less costly than springs from strip. This is because there is very little scrap from wire. Many fíat springs
are blanked from strip with a concomitant loss of material. Springs made from prehardened material tend
to be less costly than springs hardened after forming. Sharp bends tend lo increase manufacturing costs
and cause stress concentrationsthat can result in early failure.

Compression springs and severa) other types of common springs are made on universal tooling. Most
fíat springs and special wire forms require special tooling. The ability to maintain tolerances varias
considerably for different spring configurations. In general, tolerances controlled by metal forming
processes are substantially greater than tolerances controlled by metal cutting.

8, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

 Typical Amounts of Erergy Siored in
Engqrgy (1)
Space ( 2) Spring Speee EnvelopA
Stbraga
Typs of Spring clty Elllcioncy Notes Jlmm' R4bflln3

Compression or Edension nc
)z (3) 1.5 - 15 X 104 1.13-18
(round wire)

4G
Compression or Entension S2 4C
(3) 1.0-loX 10
4
1.2-12
(squarewire ) 6.5G ( C+1)

Rectangular Cantilever 8 s2 -
Simply Supported Beam 18E

Cantilever Beam - S2
Triangular Plan 6E

Helical Torsion Spring S2 7rc

1 , 0 - 5 X 104
(round wire)
1 .2 - 6
BÉ (C+l)^

Hek al Torsion Spring S2 4C

1 . 5 - 8 X 104 1 . 8-9 . 7
(squarewire ) 6E (C+1)^

S2
Spiral Torsion( round wire) - - - -
8E
s2 S2
Belleville Washer 10E to 40E 0.15-0.9 (4) 0.5 - 5 X 10a 0.13-6

Power Spring - 0.4 - 0.6 (5) 10 - 17 X 104 12 - 20

Prestressed Power Spring - DA-0.6 (5) 25 - 30 X 104 30 - 35
Typical Lead Acid Battery - - 2,500 - 3,300 X 104 3,000-4,000

(1) Ene', storage capaciry--L f kfdL where V= volume ofactive spring material. Note that stress correction factors due to spring

geometry Nave been omitted.

(2) Space etrciency is detined as volume of active spring material V divided by the space envelope of the spring at maximum denmtion.
(3) Space elfi cieney does not apply to extension spring%.
(4) Ratio ufO D. m ID. of 2 is prefened ter most designe
(5) For most enicient design, the amount etspace occupied by spring material equals halfofthe space occupied by the spring in me free
position. Because of friction, diffculty in estimating the amotmt ofactive material and number of tums in the free position, determine
(he ESC by estimating or measuring the ares under the torque revolution curve.

Table 2. Energy Storage Capacity (ESC) of Various Spring Configurations.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 9

 Glossary of Spring Terminology
Na Active Coils Those coils which are free to deflect under load.

Angular Relationship of Ends Relativa position of hooks or loops of an extension spring (or
ends of a torsion spring) to each other.

Baking Heating of electroplated springs to relieve hydrogen embrittlement.

Block See Solid Height.

Buckling Bowing or lateral displacement of a compression spring. This effect is related to

slenderness ratio L/D.

Clase Wound Adjacent coils are touching.

Closed and Ground Ends Same as Closed Ends, except the first and last coils are ground
to provide a fíat bearing surface.

Closed Ends Compression spring ends with coil pitch angle reduced so they are square with
the spring axis and touch the adjacent coils.

Ls Closed Length See Solid Height.

p Coils Per Inch See Pitch.

F Deflection Motion imparted to a spring by application or removal of an external load.

Elastic Limit Maximum stress to which a material may be subjected without permanent set.

Endurance Limit Maximum stress, ata given stress ratio, at which material will operate in a
given environment for a stated number of cycles without failure.

Fixture Tempering Restraining parts during tempering to improve dimensional control.

Of Free Angle Angular relationship between arms of a helical torsion spring which is not under
load.

Free Length Overall length of a spring which is not under load.

Gradient See Rate.

Heat Setting A process tu prerelax a spring in order to improve stress relaxation resistance
in service.

Helical Springs Springs made of bar stock or wire coiled into a helical form. This category
includes compression, extension and torsion springs.

Hooks Open loops or ends of extension springs.

Hysteresis Mechanical energy loss occurring during loading and unloading of a spring within
the elastic range. It is illustrated by the area between load-deflection curves.

Initial Tension A force that tends to keep coils of a closewound extension spring closed and
which must be overcome before the coils start to open.

10, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

 Loops Formed ends with minimal gaps at the ends of extension springs.

D Mean Diameter The average diameter of the mass of spring material, equal to one-half the
sum of the outside and inside diameters. In a helical spring, this is the equivalent to the
outside diameter minus one wire diameter.

G Modulus in Shear or Torsion (Modulus of Rigidity G) Coefficient of stiffness used for

compression and extension springs.

E Modulus in Tension or Bending (Young's Modulus E) Coefficient of stiffness used for

torsion or flat springs.

M Moment A product of the distance from the spring axis to the point of load application, and
the force component normal to the distance une.

n Natural Frequency Lowest inherent rate of free vibration of a spring vibrating between its
own ends.

Patenting The process of heating carbon steel aboye its critica) temperature and cooling at a
controlled rafe to achieve a fine pearlitic microstructure.

p Pitch Distance from center to center of wire in adjacent coils in en open-wound spring.

Plain Ends End coils of a helical spring having a constant pitch and ends not squared.

Plain Ends , Ground Same as Plain Ends, except wire ends are ground square with the axis.

R Rate Spring gradient, or change in load per unit of deflection.

Residual Stress Stress mechanically induced by such means as set removal, shot-peening,
cold working, or forming. It may be beneficia) or not, depending on the spring application.

Set Permanent change of length, height or position after a spring is stressed beyond
material's elastic limit.

Set Point Stress at which some arbitrarily chosen amount of set (usually 2%) occurs. Set
percentage is the set divided by the deflection which produced it.

Set Removal An operation which causes a permanent loss of length or height dueto spring
deflection.

Shot-Peening Blasting the surfaces of spring material with steel or glass pellets to induce
compressive stresses that improve fatigue life.

Sienderness Ratio Ratio of spring length to mean diameter LID in helical springs.

Ls Solid Height Length of a compression spring when deflected under sufficient load to bring al¡
adjacent co)Is finto contact - no additional deflection is possible.

Spiral Springs Springs formed from fiat strip or wire wound in the form of a spiral, loaded by
torque about en axis normal to the plena of the spiral.

C Spring Index Ratio of mean diameter to wire diameter.

Squared and Ground Ends See Closed and Ground Ends.

Squared Ends See Closed Ends.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 11

 Squareness Angular deviation, between the axis of a compression spring in a free state and
a line normal te the end planes.

Stress Range Difference in operating stresses at minimum and maximum loads.

Stress Ratio Minimum stress divided by maximum stress.

Stress Relief A low temperatura heat treatment given springs te relieve residual stresses
produced by prior cold forming.

M Torque See Moment

N Total Number of Coils The sum of the number of active and inactiva coils in a spring body.

Bibliographical References
Johnson, Leonard, G., The Statistical Treatment of Fatigue Experiments. New York: Elsevier
Publishing Co., 1964.

Litfe, R. E. and E. H. Jebe., Statistical Design of Fatigue Experiments. New York: John Wiley
& Sons, 1975.

Wahl, A. M., Mechanical Springs, 2nd ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1963.

Berry, W. R., Spring Design: A Practica¡ Treatment. London: Emmot & Co., 1961.

Almen, J. 0. and A. Laszlo., "The Uniform Section Disc Spring:" A.S.M.E Transactions, vol.
58, no. 4, (May 1936), pp. 305 - 314.

Blake, A., Design of Curved Members for Machines. New York. Industrial Press, 1966.

Bisshopp, K. E. and D. C. Drucker., "Larga Deflections of Cantilever Beams," Quarterly of

Applied Mathematics, vol. 3, no. 3, (1945), p. 272.

Maker, J. H., "Steel Springs" Metals Handbook. 9th ed. Metals Park: ASM, vol. 1, (1978), pp.
283-313.

Design and Manufacture of Volute Springs. New York: SAE, 1945.

Peterson, R. E., Stress Concentration Factors. New York: John Wiley & Sons, (1974), p. 231.

Maier, Karl, W., "Dynamic Loading of Compression Springs,"Product Engineering, (January

1954), pp. 162-167. "Dynamic Loading of Compression Springs," (March 1955), pp. 162-72.
"Surge Waves in Compression Springs:" (August 1957), pp. 167-174.

12, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

Reference Information

Conversion Factors , Metric and English Units

To Convert Multiply By To Obtain
Area in' 645.2 mm2
Density lblin' 27.68 g/cm3
Force Ibf 4.448 N
ozf 0.278 N
Ibf 0.4536 kgf
Frequency c/s 1.000 Hz
Length in. 25.4 mm
ft. 304.8 mm
Mass lb 0.4536 kg
Moduli (E and G) psi 0.006895 MPa
Pressure psi 6.895 kPa
Spring Rate Iblin. 0.1751 N/mm
Ib/in. 0.01785 Kg/mm
Stress psi 0.006895 MPa
Torque Ibf-in. 112.9 N.mm
Ibf-ft 1355 N.mm
ozf-in. 7.062 N.mm
Temperature °F =(°F - 32) + 1.8 C
C =1.8°C + 32° °F
Tensile Strength psi 0.006895 MPa
Volume in3 16,387 mm3
Work ft-Ibf 1.365 J

Table 3. Conversion Factors.

Abbreviations
HRC hardness, Rockwell C scale
Hz hertz
in. inch
J joule
kg kilogram
lbf pound force
m meter
mm millimeter
N newton
ozf ounce force
Pa pascal

Table 4. Common Abbreviations.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 13

 Symbois
M mega 1,000,000
k kilo 1,000
h hecto 100
c centi 0.01
m Milli 0.001
micro 0.000001

Table 5. Common Symbols.

3000 Tonalk Blrangtb,

10kg 5009 kg A tlmak
C A 1511 3011 45t4 DPH Vkkan Knoo Brlnnl Mpa 10 B 15T 30T 451
66 64.5 92.5 83 73 854 660 870
64 83.5 92 81 71 789 800 822
62 82.5 91 79 69 739 740 776
60 81 90 77.5 66.5 695 697 732 614
58 80 89.5 75.5 64 655 655 690 587
56 79 88.5 74 62 817 615 650 560
54 78 87.5 72 59.5 580 5]9 612 534 2020 293
52 77 86.5 70.5 57.5 545 547 576 509 1889 274
50 76 85.5 68.5 55 513 516 542 484 1765 256
48 74.5 84.5 66.5 52.5 485 482 510 460 1641 238
46 73.5 83.5 65 50 458 458 480 437 1538 223
44 72.5 82.5 63 48 435 435 452 415 1441 209
42 71.5 81.5 615 455 413 410 426 393 1331 193
40 70.5 80.5 595 43 393 396 402 372 1248 181
38 695 79.5 57.5 41 373 372 380 352 1179 171
36 68.5 78.5 56 38.5 353 350 360 332 1110 161
34 67.5 77 54 36 334 336 342 313 1048 152
32 66.5 76 52 33 5 317 319 326 297 1007 146
30 65.5 75 505 31.5 301 301 311 283 952 138
28 64 .5 74 485 29 285 285 297 270 903 131
26 63.5 72.5 47 26.5 271 272 284 260 862 125
24 62.5 715 45 24 257 260 272 250 827 120
22 615 70.5 43 22 244 247 256 240 786 114 100 93 82 72
20 60.5 69.5 415 19.5 228 241 241 230 758 110 98 92.5 81 70
59 216 231 215 703 102 96 92 80 68
57.5 205 221 205 676 98 94 915 78.5 66
56,5 195 211 198 648 94 92 90.5 77.5 645
555 185 201 185 614 89 90 90 76 62.5
54 176 192 176 586 85 88 89.5 75 60.5
53 169 184 169 558 81 86 88.5 74 58.5
52 162 176 156 517 75 84 88 73 57
50.5 156 170 151 503 73 82 875 71.5 55
49.5 150 164 150 496 72 80 86.5 70 53
48.5 144 158 483 70 78 86 69 51
47 139 152 469 68 76 85.5 67.5 49
46 135 147 448 85 74 85 66 475

Table 6. Approximate Conversions for Carbon Steel Between Hardness Scales and Tensile
Strengths.

14, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

 Spring Materials

Chemical and Physical Characteristics

While certain materials have cometo be regarded as spring materials , they are not specially
designed allays . Spring materials are high strength alloys which often exhibit the greatest
strength in the alloy system . For example : In steels, medium and high -carbon steels are
regarded as spring materials. Beryllium copper is frequently specified when a copper base
alloy is required. For titanium, cold-worked and aged Ti-13V-11 Cr-3A1 is used. The energy
storage capacity of a spring is proportional to the square of the maximum operating stress
leve) divided by the modulus . An ideal spring material has high strength, a high elastic limit
and a low modulus . Because springs are resilient structures designed lo undergo larga
deflections , spring materials must nave en extensiva elastic range . Other factors such as
fatigue strength, cost, availability, formability, corrosion resistance , magnetic permeability and
electrical conductivity can also be importan( and must be considered in light of cost/benefit.
Consequently , careful selections must be made to obtain the best compromise.

Table7, paga 16, lists some commonly used alloys along with data for material selection
purposes . Data on mechanical properties are presented in the Spring Wire and Spring Strip
subsections (Pagas 25 and 27 respectively). Specifications have been written by many
national and international organizations . These specifications are cross- referenced in
SMI's Encyclopedia of Spring Design . However , correlation between the specifications is only
approximate. These specifications were developed exclusively for high quality material for
spring applications and are generally more detailed and stringent than other specifications.

Surface quality has a mejor influence on fatigue strength and is often not clearly delineated
on national specifications . It is important lo use only those materials with the best surface
integrity for fatigue applications, particularly those in the high cycle region.

In steel alloys , for which processing costs are a larga fraction of product cost, surface quality
can vary ovar en appreciable range. Depth of surtace imperfections, such as seams, pits and
die marks, can be up to 3.5% of diameter for commercial spring wire grades (ASTM A-227
and A-229). Various intermediate qualities can be obtained . Highest levels are representad
by music and valve spring quality grades which are virtually free of surface imperfections.
Decarburization , which can also adversely affect fatigue performance , follows a similar
pattern. Surface quality of spring materials is a function of the cara exercised in their
production and processes employed . Materials produced with a high leve ) of surface integrity
are more costly than commercial grades.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 15

 ycurro'• Mo11wu • el EMCbIW Sirsxann•lly AWiI•W Trplo MlWmwn sama.
C•naua- Sunc^e Temp•nWn(4)
Modwu•E t W e t D•n•Iry (1)
Common Nmn• Mp IPell Mp Po •11 ycm^ Mty (1) Min. M•x. pa,lity N: eF
Ibliñ %IACS mm n. mm In. 3
loa 10a 1Og 19a
Carbw Steel Wires:
] 0 . 10(0004 ) 6.35(0250) 120 250
M us l c ( 5 ) ZW (30) 793 (11 . 6) 7.86(0. 284)
] 0.13(0005) 16 (0.625) 150 250
Hard Drawn (5) 20] (30 ) 793 (11. 5) ].86(0284 )
7 050 (0.020 ) 16(0625 ) 150 300
Oil Temperetl 207 (30 ) 79.3 (115) 7. 86(0284)
7 1.3(0 050 ) 6. 35 ( 0250 1 a 150 300
Valvas lin 207 30 793 11 . 5 7.86 0284
Alb Stsel Wirea'.
7 0.50(0 . 020) 11 (0./35) a,b 220 425
Cb rome V ana di u m 207 (30 ) ]93 (115 ) 7.88(0284)
50 0 . 020 95 0 . 3]5 a , b 245 475
Cbrome Siliwn 207 30 793 11 5 7 . 86 0284 5 0 .
Stainbss Sleel Wires'
. 005 95 0 . 375 b 260 500
AustenibcT 302 193 28 69 . 0 1 0 7 . 92 0286 2 013 0
Preaipimtion ]81 ( 0.282 ) 2 0.08 (0.002 ) 12.5(0500 ) b 315 600
203 (295) 75.8 (11)
HaMenin 1]-7 PH
1 0.4 8 . 03 ( 0 . 290 ) 2 040 ( 0016 ) 1 5 0 . 200 b 510 950
NICr A288 200 1 29 1 1 71.7
Co Base Nio y Wires:
886 0.320 15 0 . 10 0.004 12.5 0500 b 95 200
Pbw flor Bronre A 103 ( 15 ) 434 63
7 0 . 10 0.004 12.5 0500 b 95 200
Siliwn Bronre A 103 15 386 5. 6 853 ( 0 308
875 0.] 16 12 010 0 . 00/ 125 0 . 500 b 95 200
Siliwn Bronce B 117 7) 1 44 . 1 4
8.2fi 0 . 298 21 008 0 . 003 12 . 5 0.500 b 205 400
Be IIWm CO 120 185 48 . 3 7.0
853 0 . 308 17 0 . 10 0.004 12 . 5 0 l 1 b 95 200
Brin Breas CA260 110 16 420 6. 0
Niccel Base Alb
125 ( 0.500 b 320 700
31 786 11 6A3 0 . 304 1.5 010 0 . 004
Inwnel` Al¡, 1100 21 /
12.5 0500 b 595 1100
Inwnel Allo X750 214 31 79 . 3 115 825 1 0 298 1 0.10 0004
8.14(0.294 ) 1.6 0.10(0 . 004) 12 . 5(0.500 ) b 95 200
NiS n-C' 186 27 ) 819 (97 )
0.03 (0.319) 3.5 0 05 (0.002) 9.5 (0.3]5) b 230 450
Moner AIIO 400 179 26) 861 (9.6)
1 846 0. 306 3 005 0002 95 0.375 b 260 500
Monel Alla K500 179 (M) 1 662 ( 9.6 1

Canon Steel Sin :

11 . 5 786 1 0 2M 7 025 0 . 010 3 1 0 125 b 95 200
AISI 1050 207 Q0 ) 1 79.3
11.5 11 7.86 0284 200
7 008 0 . 003 3 0 . 125 b 95
20]
1065 1 79 . 3 30 )
b 120 250
1074, 1075 207 30 79 . J 11.5 786 0204 ] 0.08 0003 3 125 ) 1
1095 207 30 79.3 11.5 788 2M ) 1 7 0 . 08 0003 3 0 . 125 b 120 250

( 30) 793 ( 115 7.86 0264 7 0.10 0004 ) a

1 0.040) 95 200
Baltex` 207
Stainbu Steel Stn p
AustenaiC Types (10 ) 792(0286 ) 2 008 ( 0003 ) 1.5(0083 ) b 315 600
193 (28 ) 690
01,302
Predplganon 75.8 (11) 781 (0282 ) 2 008 (0.003 ) 3(0125 ) b 370 700
203 (29.5)
HaMenin 17-] PH
C r Base AIl Stn:
03 1 5 (0. 188) b 95 200
Phoe bor Brontt A 10] 15 43 83 8.86 0 . 320 15 08 (0.003)
Be Illum Co 128 18.5 48 7 , 0) 1 8.26 298 1 1 21 0.08 0 . 003 9 . 5 0.375 b 205 400
(II Ebgic nMUli.drnily end e 4cubluoMU[IivXy [w vnrywn b wN anh. I,eat ,rtmmem ( 4) Muimum ¢rv nmlmlurts ertguidelines- may vny dueto opndingnmx aM
vtl opaliry nreu . Tbe,e vemm^mm uwlly mimr bo l xMUMhwmgvN ifoneor elbwede releulbn.
rt of,t[ttpropme,' u cr iuL (5) [sM hax tlnwn erc[onunereiellnm. br P ,m,eiutlaobdnwnuvbn tlxlxping
ID Oemnen forwir :,bkxzver 0, nrip. wire.
(3) Trywl surface 9wlñy mings ., For mo nwWUli xfe [ial proc¢a cnFeapec iIM,a
4 are regineM IMxmkx otinema,unal Nlhel Campan,
upgmde lypical velual INCONEL . MONEL aM NI-SPAN
Meeimum 4efM deplb : n m 0.5%oídan . Irc. RARTE%k e regMaM ,ndcmaA ofTblsotAmni[a In[.
Maximum defn'I dep,b : I % oíd or 1.
áfxlh : Ien,Fan 3.5%ofd or,.

Table7. Typical Properties of Common Spring Materials.

16, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

Elastic Modulus
The modulus of elasticity in tension and shear is vital to spring design. Tabla 7, paga 16,
lists recommended values for commonly used spring alloys. For most steels and age-
hardenable alloys, the modulus varias as a function of chemical composition, cold work and
degree of aging. Usually variations are small and can be compensated for by adjustment of
reference parameters of the spring design , (e.g. number of active coils , and coil diameter).

For most materials, moduli are temperature-dependent and vary inversely with temperatura
by approximately 2% per 55°C (100°F). Since nonambient temperatura testing is costly,
design criteria should be specified at room temperatura after having made appropriate
compensation for the application temperatura. Certain nickel-chromium-iron alloys are
designed to have a constant modulus ovar the temperatura range from -5° to 65°C (-50° to
150°F) and are exceptions to the aboye rule.

For true isotropic materials, the elastic moduli in tension (E) and shear (G) are related
through Poisson's ratio by the expression:

so that, for common spring materials, any one of the parameters may be approximated using
(he other two.

Magnetic Characteristics
For most applications, the question of "magnetic or not" is adequately answered with the use
of a permanent magnet. For some applications, even very low levels of magnetic behavior
can be detrimental. Then, it is desirable to know the magnetic permeability of candidate
materials and reach agreement between parties on a maximum allowable value. Tabla 8,
pagel8, lists approximate values for a number of low-permeability materials along with other
frequently used alloys.

Since permeability can be altered by cold work, some variation can be expected. In general,
low-permeability materials are more expensive, so designers should specify low levels only
when absolutely necessary. Often, nitrogen-strengthened manganesa stainless steels are
good choices because they have good strength at moderate cost.

Heat Treatment of Springs

Heat treating temperaturas for springs can be divided into two ranges. Low-temperatura heat
treatments in the 175° to 510°C (347° to 950°F) range are applied to springs alter forming to
reduce residual stresses and stabilize parts dimensionally. For carbon steels, stainless steels
and some age-hardenable alloys, low-temperature heat treatments are used to increase or
restore the set point. Electroplated carbon steel parts are heat treated at low temperaturas
prior to plating, and baked afterward to reduce the susceptibility to hydrogen embrittlement.
Most low temperature stress relieving and age hardening of springs are done in air, and a
moderate amount of oxide may be formed on the part. No detrimental effects of this oxide
have beso noted.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 17

 Permeability at 200 Oersted,
Materlais Room Temperatura
Air 1
Brasses, Bronzes Nonmagnetie
Carbon Steels > 500
Elgiloy 1.000035
Inconel Alloys:
600 1.01
625 1.0006
X-750 1.0035
Stainless Steels:
Type 301, spring temper > 30
Type 302, spring temper > 12
631 (17-7 PH) > 40
XM-28 : Nitronic 32" 1.011
Nitronic 50* 1.004
Titanium Alloys Nonmagnetic
Nitrogen-strengthened manganeso stsinless steels.
ELGILOY is a reglstered trademark of Kaly Industries, lnc,
NITRONIC is a registered tmdemask ofAnneo., Inc.
-'I

Table S. Magnetic Characterlstics of Some Materlals.

High-temperature heat treatments are used to strengthen annealed material after spring
forming . High-carbon steels are strengthened by austenitizing In tire temperatura range 760'
to 900'C (1480° to 1652 'F), quenching to form martenslte and then tempering . Some nickel-
based alloys are strengthened by high temperatura aging treatments . Because substancial
oxidation occurs at these elevated temperaturas, it is advisable to prevent excessive
oxidation by using en approprlate protective atmosphere.

Heat treatments suitable for many commonly used materials are listed in Tabla 9 , paga 19.
Selection of a temperatura within a given ranga can only be made alter consldering the
material , size, strength leve(, application conditions and desired characteristics. Unless
otherwlse noted , 20 to 30 minutes exposure at the specified temperatura ranga is sufficient to
obtain the bulk of the stress-relieving effect.

Many spring- like parts involve forma that preclude tire use of prehardened material, In
these cases, soft or annealed material must be used and hect treated to attain spring
properties after forming . Thin high-carbon and alloy steel parts become distorted when
hardened by quanching. Distortion may be reduced by fixture tempering ; however, this
process Is costly and should be avolded If at al¡ possible by using pretempered materials.

Tempering Is en effective stress -relieving treatment and results In negligible levels of residual
stress. Some spring materials, such as beryllium copper and 17-7 PH, are strengthened after
forming by age hardening . This provides a good stress relief, but may also cause distortion
unless special technlques are used.

18, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

 Heat Treatment
Ma riaia °C °F
Patented and Cold-Drawn Steel Wire 190 - 230 375 - 450
Tempered Steel Wire:
Carbon 260 - 400 500 - 750
Alloy 315-425 600-800
Austenitic Stainless Steel Wire 230 - 510 450 - 950
Precipitation Hardening Stainless Wire
(17-7 PH):
Condition C 480 11 hour 900 11 hour
Condition A to TH 1050 760 / 1 hour cool to 1400 11 hour, rml
15°C followed by 565 / to 60°F followed by
1 hour 1050 11 hour
Monel:
Alloy 400 300 - 315 575 - 600
Alloy K500, Spring Temper 525 14 hours 980 14 hours
Inconel:
Alloy 600 400 - 510 750 - 950
Alloy X-750:
#1 Temper 730116 hours 1350 / 16 hours
Spring Temper 650 14 hours 1200 14 hours
Copper Base , Cold Worked (Brass,
Phosphor Bronze, etc.)
Beryllium Copper: 175-205 350-400
Pretempered ( Mili Hardened ) 205 400
Solution Annealed, Temper Rolled or 315 12 - 3 hours 600 / 2 - 3 hours
Drawn
Annealed Steels:
Carbon (AISI 1050 to 1095) 800 - 830° 1475 - 1525*
Alloy (AISI 5160H 6150, 9254) 830 - 885° 1525 - 1625*
-Time depends ora heathg equipment and section sis. Pass ate austera zed then quenched vid tempered to me
desired hardeess.

Table 9. Typical Heat Treatments for Springs After Forming

Environmental Considerations
Frequently, operating environment is the single most important consideration for proper
spring material selection. For successful application , material must be compatible with the
environment and withstand effects of temperature and corrosion without en excessive loss in
spring performance . Corrosion and elevated temperatures decrease spring reliability. The
effect of temperature on spring materials is predictable and discussed in the upcoming
subsection. Compatibility of spring materials and spring coating systems with
corrosiva environments will be discussed in general terms.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 19

 Stress Relaxation
The primary concern for elevated-temperature applications of springs is stress relaxation.
Stress relaxation is the loss of load or available deflection that occurs when a spring is held
or cycled under load. Temperatura also affects modulus, (ensile and fatigue strength. For a
given spring, variables that affect stress relaxation are: stress, time and temperature, with
increases in any parameter tending to increase the amount of relaxation. Stress and
temperatura are related exponentially to relaxation. Curves of relaxation vs. these
parameters are concave upward, as is shown in Figures 2 and 3, paga 21. Other
controllable factors affecting relaxation include:

1. Alloy Type - more highly alloyed materials are generally more resistant ata given
temperatura or can be used at higher temperaturas.

2. Residual Stress - residual stresses remaining from forming operations are detrimental to
relaxation resistance. Therefore, use of the highest practica) stress-relief temperaturas is
beneficia). Shot peening is also detrimental to stress relaxation resistance.

3. Heat Setting - various procedures can be emp loyed to expose springs to stress and hect
for varying times to prepare for subsequent exposures. Depending on the method used,
tire effect is to remove a usually larga first-stage relaxation and/or to establish a residual
stress system, which will lessen relaxation influences. In some cases, tire latter approach
can be so effective that, in application, compression springs may "grow" or exhibit
negativa relaxation. Increase in free length does not usually exceed one to two percent.

4. Grain Size - coarse grain size promotes relaxation resistance . This phenomenon is used
only in very high temperatura applications.

Because so many variables are involved, it is impossible to cite comprehensive data in a

publication of this type, but Tabla 7, paga 16, does show approximate maximum service
temperaturas for many commonly used materials. It should be remembered that, if a material
is used at its maximum temperature, a substantial reduction must be made in applied stress
from that used at room temperatura.

Corrosion
The effect of a corrosive environment on spring performance is difficult to predict with
certainty. General corrosion , galvanic corrosion, stress corrosion and corrosion fatigue
reduce tire life and load-carrying ability of springs. The two most common methods employed to
combat effects of corrosion are to specify materials that are inert to the environment and to
use protective coatings . Use of inert materials affords the most reliable protection against
deleterious effects of al¡ types of corrosion; however, this is often costly and sometimes
impractical. Protective coatings are offen the most cost-effective method to prolong spring life
in corrosiva environments. In special situations, shot peening can be used to preven( stress
corrosion, and cathodic protection systems can be used to prevent general corrosion.

20, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

 25 50 Inilial5 reas 100 ps0 125 150 250 E,au empaalu
1,1 350 T)
II II

CM1rom
16 16 siboon
Carbon Cbrome
51e& I oon
alaco sprngs - - -
81101-peened
Sud. peana - - _
U Haal Set p 00000 psi) i,Jeaecvess ozkuñmd
maro temperatura / /
12

1 1 I 1
200 400 600 800 1000 120 140 160 100 200
Initial stress lMaa) Exryaure temperalure (`C)

Figure 2. Relaxation vs. Initial Stress Figure 3. Relaxation vs. Temperatura

for Spring Materlais for Spring Materials

Coatings may be glassified as galvanically sacrificial or simple banier coatings . Sacrificial

coatings for high qarbon steel substrates include zinc , cadmium (and alloys thereof) and, to a
lesser degree , aluminum . Dueto its toxicity, cadmium coating should only be specified when
absolutely necessary. Because sacrificial coatings are chemically less noble than steel, the
substrate is protected in two ways . First, the coating acts as a barrier between substrate and
environment. Second, galvanic action between coating and substrato cathodically protects
the substrate. This characteristic allows sacrificial coatings to continua their protective role
even after the coating is scratched, nicked or cracked. The amount of damage a sacrificial
coating can sustain and still protect the substrate is a function of the size of the damaged
ares and the eff iciency of the electrolyte involved. The salt spray life criteria for three
thicknesses of sacrificial coatings are shown in Tabla 10, page 22. Use of conversion
coatings, such as chromates, lengthens the time of protection by protecting sacrificial
coatings. Salt spray (fog) is en accelerated test and results may, or may not, correlate with
corrosiva activity in the actual environment. The test is useful as a control to ensure the
coating was applied properly.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 21

 Zinc en Iron and Steel Cadmium en Iron and Steel
Parta por QQ-Z-325 (1) Porte par Ma-P-4116 (2)
Salt Spray Salt Spray
Mínimum Test, Hours to Test,
Recommended Corroslon Minimum Hours te
Thickness Finish yyhlte Red Thickness Finish White
mm (in.) Type mm ( In.) Typo Corroslon
A 192
0.025 0.013
B 96 B 96
(0.0010) C 192 (0.00050)

A
0.013 0.008
B 96 B 96
(0.00050) C (0.00030)

A 36
0.005 B 96 0.005
B 96
(0.00020) (0.00020)
C 36
(1) Requirements for zinc coafing (electrodeposited).
(2) Requirements for cadmimn plating(electmdcpositcd).
Finish Type:
A. Without supplementary chromate or phosphate troatment.
B. With supplementary chromate treatment.
C. With supplementary phosphate treatment.

Tabla 10. Guide for Selecting Minimum Thicknesses for Zinc

and Cadmium Coatings.

Metallic coatings are normally applied by electroplating. Since most high-hardness steels are
inherently very susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement, plating must be carried out with great
care to minimize embrittlement and subsequent fatigue failure. A baking operation alter
plating is also essential. The designar should observe these points during design and
specification:

1. Minimiza sharp corners and similar stress-concentration points in design.

2. Keep hardness as low as possible.

3. Keep operating stress down, in accordance with lowered hardness value.

4. Specify plating thickness, depending upon requirements.

5. Specify that parts be baked after plating.

6. Consider use of HEPTM strips to monitor the plating operation.

7. Residual stress from forming operations must be reduced by stress relief at the highest
practica) temperature. Otherwise the combined effect of residual tension and hydrogen
absorbed during plating can induce cracking even before plating is completed.

Similar cautions apply if acid cleaning procedures are contemplated.

22, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

Mechanical plating provides en effective means of zinc or cadmium protection with minimum
hydrogen embrittlement. It is particularly recommended where parts have high residual
stress, have been hardened aboye HRC48 and are used with high static loads. The process
can only be applied to parts that do not Cangle and have a clean, fully accessible surtace.
Hydrogen embrittlement , although unlikely , is still possible if parts are cleaned by pickling.
When appropriate , coatings of zinc, tin, cadmium , oran alloy of cadmium can be applied by
mechanical plating processes.

Cadmium, zinc or, more cornmonly , alloys of the two can be applied to steel spring wire
during its production and, under some circumstances , this alternativa is highly desirable. It is
best suited to small-diameter wire and , in general, for the production of springs not requiring
grinding.

Springs are almost always in contact with other metal parts. In a corrosiva environment, it is
important that the spring material be more noble than components in contact with it. Tabla
11, below , shows a partial ¡¡si of alloys in increasing order of nobility . When any two alloys
are placed in contact in the presence of en electrolyte , the less noble alloy (higher on the list)
will be attacked . The attack will be significantly more vigorous than that of the electrolyte
acting by itself.

Galvanic Series with

electrolyte such as seawater
Least noble (+),
Magnesium Anodic
Zinc
Aluminum
Cadmium
Steel or Iron
Cast Iron
Stainless Steel , series
300 (active)
Hastelloy C
Nickel (active)
Inconel (active)
Hastelloy B
Brasses, Bronzes
Monel
Nickel ( passive)
Inconei ( passive)
Stainless Steel, series
300 (passive)
Titanium Most noble
Cathadic
HASTELLOY is a registe d trademark of Cabot Corporation.

Table 11 . Order of Nobility.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 23

 The ¡¡si of coatings that protect the base material by acting as a barrier te the environment
is extensiva and increases as new finishes and techniques are developed. Tabla 12,
below, shows protection available from some of the common barrier finishes. This information
is not for selection purposes; it simply shows the range of protection afforded. In fact, tire
hours of salt spray protection may only be valid for the specimen and test conditions
employed in this series of tests. The tests were conducted en springs that had undergone four
million cycles in a fatigue test prior to salt spray exposure.

Protective Standard Salt Spray

Material Test Resistance , hours Description
Paints:
Japan 15 - 20 Dark colored, usually dipped, cured by
baking.
Lacquer 30 - 100 Usually applied by spraying. Air dried.
Enamel 50 - 400 Hard finish; applied by spray, brush or
dip; cured by air or baking.
Paint 25 - 300
Oils, waxes 1 -300 Lubricating, rust-inhibiting, hard drying
and nondrying oils.
Phosphates with 24 - 600 Chemical treatment converting steel
supplemental surface te ¡ron phosphale crystalline
oils, waxes, etc. surface. Affords a bond for oils and
paints.
Cadmium, zinc 24 - 100 Electroplated or mechanically plated.
Thie infotmation is basad on laboretorycontrolled apPlicationsami test, The protective material selected,
cleavlinees of pana, m ethod of application, subsequmt operations and parí usage affect perfomunce. The
choice of a spring finish must also consider shipping, assembly, and use and total cosí.

Tabla 12. Salt Spray Resistance of Common Barrier Finishes.

While coatings frequently increase in effectiveness as their thicknesses are increased,

cautions are in order. Tendencias to crack increase as coating thickness increases, and tire
coating increases the size of the spring . For example, coatings increase the solid height and
diametral clearances required for compression springs. Brittle coatings, such as epoxy, can
chip under impact, leaving unprotected spots. Tough coatings, such as vinyl, resist chipping,
but bruises, tears or abrasions can expose the base material and trap corrosiva agents. This
allows corrosion to continua after exposure and, in these circumstances, coated springs
occasionally exhibit shorter lives than uncoated springs.

Frequently, oils, waxes or greases provide adequate protection. Effectiveness of these

coatings is often dependent on the nature of the surface te be protected. In general, lustrous
or smooth parts will not retain oils, and waxes, paraffin-based oils or greases are
recommended. Steels can be phosphate- mated by a conversion process. Phosphate
coatings have a high retention for oils, greases or paints. The combination of a phosphate
and oil coating becomes a corrosion inhibitor more effective tiran either of the componente. A
similar effect is obtained by retaining or deliberately forming oxides on metal surfaces to hold
corrosion inhibitors or lubricants. Oil-tempered spring wire is a notable example of this
technique.

24, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

Spring Wire
Tensile properties of spring wire vary with sine (Figure 4, below). Common spring wires
with the highest strengths are ASTM 228 and ASTM 401 materials. ASTM A313 Type 302,
A232 and A230 materials have slightly lower tensile strengths with surface qualities suitable
for fatigue applications. Hard-drawn (ASTM 227) and oil-tempered (ASTM 229) are also
supplied at lower strength leveis and are most suitable for static applications.

wire diameter (m.)

004 M08 0020 0.040 0080 0,200 0.400 0.800

450
3000

ASTM A228 400

2500

ASTM A313

)302) ASTM A401

ASTM A229

ASTM A227
ASTM A230 ASTM A232
E 1500
nel Alloy X-7501Spnng Temper )
ASTM A229
E

E
E
ASTM B159 (sprin g Temper cA51o) ASTM A227 E

000 150 5
ASTM A313
(302)
100

500

50

0
1 4 5 5 1 8 91 0
a 5 c '89100
0.10
wire diameter (mm)

Figure 4. Mínimum Tensile Strengths of Spring Wire.

Most spring wires can be wrapped on their own diameter ( bent around a pin with a diameter
equal to the wire diameter). Exceptions include some copper-based alloys and large-diameter
andlor high-strength alloys. Because stress relieving increases yield strength of cold-drawn
spring wire, al¡ sharp bends of this grade material should be made prior to stress relief.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 25

 Moderate High Extra High
Strengih Strength Strength
1.5 .im 0.060

4m
1.25 . ns') 0.050
Minimum
Re o s
s.amm Radi
tliu
.160)

3, 2 mm

2,5 mm
100')
0.50 0.020
e 5)
ws)
0.25 3 mm 0.010
a o')

40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56
Rockwell Hardness (HRC)

Figure 5. Minimum Transversa Bending Radii for Various

Tempers and Thicknesses of Tempered Spring SteeL

Direction of bending with respect to rolling direction is en important consideration. Formability

of strip is greater in transverse than in longitudinal directions (Figure 6, below). If a part is
designed with two identical bends at 90° to each other, it is common practica to orient the
part so that both bends are made at 45° to the rolling direction. Dimensionless parameter 2r/t,
often referred to as'bend factor,' is frequently used as a measure of formability. Materials with
low values are more formable than materials with high values. This measure is only a guide,
since it does not allow for tooling considerations and complex strains associated with forming
operations.

Indicates Direction Of Rolling

N, = 2r

Transverse Bend Longitudinal Bend

Also known as "across the grain," Also known as "with the grain,"
perpendicular to the rolling parallelto rolling direction.
direction. Easy or good way. Hard or bad way.

Figure 6. Orientation of Bend Axis to Rolling Direction for

Transverse and Longitudinal Bends.

28, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

Spring steels are normally produced to specified hardness leveis that are related to tensile
strength (Figure 7, below). Composition is not shown in Figure 5, page 28, because
the lowest carbon leve¡ (AISI 1050 ) can be used at high strength leveis and the highest
carbon leve¡ (AISI 1095) can be tempered to the lowest strength levels. In general, higher
carbon levels are used when strength is critica¡, and lower carbon levels are used when
formability is critica¡. Hardness levels aboye HRC 50 resu¡t in high strength but are not generally
recommended due to notch sensitivity. Surface and edge smoothness become critica¡, and
plated parts become highly susceptible to static fracture dueto trapped hydrogen.

10 kg. DPH or Vickers (VHN)

300
2000

280

260

240

220

200

180

D 160

1000
140

120
800

28 32 36 40 44 46 48 50 52 54

Rockwell Hardness (HRC)

Figure 7. Tensile Strength vs. Hardness of Quenched

and Tempered Spring Steel.

Parts that cannot be made within formability limits of pretempered strip are made from
annealed strip, and hardened and tempered alter forming. To maintain critica¡ dimensions, it is
often necessary to fixture temper these parts. Sharp bends are not only diff ¡culi to fabricate
but are also undesirable in service because of stress concentration. The formability limits of
annealed spring steels are presented in Tabla 16, paga 30.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 29

 AISI 1050 AISI 1y065 AMI 1074. 1075 Alsl 1y085
bu NJt Ndt NJt
Thickness (t) Direction Annealed Annealed Annealed Annealed Annealetl Annealetl Annealetl Annealetl
mm (in.) of Bend (standard (apdel (standard (epeciel (.tenderd (speci.l (standard (spadal
Ioweat loweat lowest loweat loweet lowest loweat lowest
m max.0 • 07 2 m 0 .• 07 2 07 max.
3 07
1.9mm 2z 0 1
(0.016 )-aver 4 3 4 3 4 3 5 4
0.9-1.89 mm 1 0 1 0 1 0 2 0
(0.036-0 015-) 2 1 2 1 2 1 3 2
0.37-0 89 mm 0 0 0 D 1 0 1 0
(0.015-0 .0351 1 0 14 1 1K 1 2 1
0.20-0.36 mm 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0
008-0.014") 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 'h
Fonmbiley ie detnmined by slowly btMwg a ungkover IBO ' umil he eMe ue pnikl . Thc mcavuad difmxe Mween We en& 'u N,. Fnr e,n Ie , ifN,=4 vd I=2, Wen NJI=2
•AVtihble ae Baw-FOm,D boda Walla Barrea SYelrvbaWimyoflrcuofAmaiq l,e.

Table 16. Formability of Annealed Spring Steels.

In fíat spring designs where the edge of the strip becomes en edge of the part , the type of
edge is important, particularly for cyclic applications . Common types of edges available are
shown in Figure 8 , below. Slit edge (No. 3) and deburred (No. 5) are preferred for
blanked parts and static applications . No. 1 round edge is recommended for cyclic
applications to reduce the stress concentration and eliminate the edge flaws dueto slitting.
Configurations shown in Figure 8, are approximate , and it is advisable to use both the
numerical designation and a description when specifying edge condition.

No. 1 Edge

SQUARE
No. 3 Etlge
Standard
maximum comer
radius: 0.08 mm
(0.003")

ROUND
Standard
NORMAL AS SLIT

BLUNT ROUND
Special

No. 5 Etlge

OVAL
Special

BROKEN No. 3 DEBURRED

CORNERS
Special
1

Figure 8. Edges Available on Steel Strip.

30, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

 Commercial thickness tolerances for spring steel strip are presented in Tabla 17, below.
Many fíat springs and spring washer designs can tolerate this variation . Since the load varias
as the cube of the thickness , critica¡ designs may require closer tolerances.

Thickness Tolerance : ± mm (in.)

Strip Wldth : mm (in.)
Thickness: mm (in.)
12.7.76 . 1 76.2. 304.8
(0.50 - 2 .99) (3.00 - 12.00)
0.10 - 0.25 (0.004 - 0.010) 0.005 (0.00020) 0.006 (0.00025)

0.25 - 0.51 (0.010 - 0.020) 0.006 (0.00025) 0.009 (0.00035)

0.51 - 0.76 (0.020 - 0.030) 0.009 (0.00035) 0.013 (0.00050)

0.76 - 1.02 (0.030 - 0.040) 0.010 (0.00040) 0.013 (0.00050)

1.02 - 1.52 (0.040 - 0.060) 0.013 (0.00050) 0.019 (0.00075)

1.52 - 2.03 (0.060 - 0.080) 0.025 (0.00100) 0.038 (0.00150)

2.03 - 2.54 (0.080 - 0.100) 0.038 (0.00150) 0.051 (0.00200)

2.54 - 3.18 (0.100 - 0.125) 0.051 (0.00200) 0.063 (0.00250)

Precision mlled high.carboa atea¡sMp is available commercially at tolerances considerably lesa than
the valgas stated aboye.

Table 17. Typical High-Carbon Strip Thickness Tolerances.

Other Spring Materials

A variety of materiais other than carbon steel strip is used for fíat springs (Tabla 18, paga
32). When high conductivity is required, copper-based alloys are usually specified. Stainless
steeis are used in applications requiring heat or corrosion resistance. Typical tensile strength
levels for these alloys alter heat treatment are shown in Tabla 18, paga 32. Bend factors
and tensile elongations are for alloys in "as received" condition prior to final heat treatment.

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 31

 Tensile Bend Factor') Modulus of
Strength MPa Rockwell Elongationl ' t (2rIt trans. elasticity Poisson's
Material ( 103 psi) Hardness Percent bends) 104 Mpa ( 106 psi) Ratio
Steel, spring temper 1700 (246) C50 2 5 20.7 (30) 030
Stainless 301 1300 (189) C40 8 3 19.3 (28) 0.31
Stainless 302 1300 (189) C40 5 4 19.3 (28) 0.31
Monel 400 690 (100) B95 2 5 17.9 (26) 0.32
Monel K500 1200 (174) C34 40 5 17.9 (26) 0.29
Inconel 600 1040(151) C30 2 2 21.4(31) 0.29
Inconel X-750 1050 (152) C35 20 3 21.4 (31) 0.29
Copper-Beryllium 1300 (189) C40 2 5 12.8 (18.5) 0.33
Ni-Span-C 1400 (203) C42 6 2 18.6 (27) -
Brass CA 260 620 (90) B90 3 3 11 (16) 0.33
Phosphor Bronze 690 (100) B90 3 2.5 10.3 (15) 0.20
17-7 PH RH950 1450 (210) C44 6 Flat 20.3 (29.5) 0.34
17-7 PH Condition C 1650 (239) C46 1 2.5 20.3 (29.5) 0.34
(1) aefore hect treavnent.

Table 18. Typical Properties of Spring Temper Alloy Strip.

Specifying Hardness
Hardness tests are used extensively lo inspect strip and fiar springs, and it is necessary to
specify the correct scale . Recommended hardness scales for steels are presented in Tabla
19, below. To obtain accurate readings free from the effect of the anvil, it is important lo
limit the thickness of the material for each hardness scale as shown in Figure 9, page 33,
for hard materials and Figure 10, page 33, for soft materials.

Annealed Steel and

Thickness: mm (in.) Tempered Steel Nonferrous Alloys
0.89 (0.035) and ovar c B
0.64-0.86 (0.025 - 0.034) A 45T
0.35-0.61 (0.015 - 0.024) 30N 30T
0.20-0.36 (0.008 - 0.014) 15N 15T
Under 0.20 (0.008) DPH DPH

Table 19. Recommended Hardness Scales for Hard and

Soft Spring Alloys.

32, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

 Specifications mentioned in this book and in detail in the Encyclopedia are:

UNS Unified Numbering System is a joint publication of tire American Society for
Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).
"A UNS designation is not, in itself, a specification , since it establishes no
requirements for form, condition, property or quality. It is a unified identifier of a
metal or alloy for which controlling limits have been established in
specifications published elsewhere ." For additional details, see ASTM
E527/SAE J1086, "Recommended Practice for Numbering Metals and Alloys."

ASTM ASTM standards are issued by:

American Society for Testing and Materials
1916 Race Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-1187 USA

AISI Stands for American ¡ron and Steel Institute. AISI and SAE developed a
system of designation for standard steels. For a description, see SAE J403.

AMS SAE/Aerospace Materials Standards are issued by tire Society of Automotive

Engineers (see below).

SAE SAE standards have been issued by the Society of Automotive Engineers.
Although no longer available, the SAE standards are provided to
retect notations on existing documents and blueprints.

Federal, Mil. Federal and Military Specifications are issued by the United States
Sp. Government and are available from:

Standardization Documents Order Desk

Bldg. 4 Section D
700 Robbins Avenue
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19111-5094
Attn: NPODS

JIS JIS standards are issued by the Japanese Standards Association.

DIN DIN standards are issued by the Deutsches Institut für Normunge e. V.
English translations can be obtained from:

Global Engineering Documents

15 Inverness Way
Englewood CO 80112 USA
(800) 854-7179

BS British standards are issued by the British Standards Institute (BSI).

34, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

Glossary of Spring Wire Terms
Tensile Strength

ASTM E6, Section 37 - Terminology - The maximum tonsila stress that a material is
capable of sustaining. Tensile strength is calculated from the maximum load during a tension
test carried to rupture and the original cross sectional area of the specimen.

Procedural specifications - ASTM A370, ASTM E8

Size Tolerance

Allowed maximum deviation from a nominal diameter. Usually expressed as both plus and
minus and in the same units with the same precision as the nominal diameter. Most ASTM
standards specify the tolerance as "absoluta" as defined in ASTM E29.

Roundness Tolerance

The allowed maximum range in size readings at any given point in the wire. The roundness
tolerance is usually specified as one half of the size tolerance.

Wrap Test

A wire sample is coiled in a closely spaced helix around a mandrel of specified diameter.
After wrapping, the specimen is examined for cracks. The sample shall be considered to
have failed if any cracks occur in the wire after the first complete turn.

Procedural Specification - ASTM A370 (Annex A4.7)

Colling Test

This test is used to determine if imperfections are present to the extent that they may cause
cracking or splitting during spring coiling and spring extension. A coi¡ of specified length is
close-wound on en arbor of a specified diameter. The closed coil is then stretched to a
specified permanent increase in length and examined for uniformity of pitch with no splits or
fractures.

Procedural Specification - ASTM A370 (Annex A4.8)

Bend Test

A test piece is bent through a specified angle around a specified mandrel. When complete
fracture does not occur, the convex sido of the sample is examinad for cracks.

Procedural Specification - ASTM E290

Torsion Test

A straight length of wire is twisted in a fixture until fracture occurs. The fracture surface
should be perpendicular to the axis of the wire and free from cracks or other injurious flaws.

Procedural Specification - ASTM E558

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 35

 Decarburization

The loss of carbon from a ferrous alloy as a result of heating in a medium that reacts with
carbon.

Procedural Specification - ASTM E1077

Cast & Helix

Cast is tire diameter of the circie formed by a length of wire thrown loosely on the floor or a
similar flat surface larga enough in area to support the sample. Diameter of casi is lo be agreed
upon by purchaser and seller. Helix or pitch is tire amount of separation between two
overlapping cut ends of a wire loop when held vertically by a finger or a similar support.
Distance of separation is to be agreed upon between purchaser and seller.

Reduction of Ama

ASTM E6, Section 33 - Terminology - The difference between tire original cross sectional
ares of a tension test specimen and the ares of its smallest cross section. The reduction of
ares is usually expressed as a percentage of the original cross-sectional area of the
specimen.

Procedural specifications - ASTM A370 , ASTM E8

36, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

 Tensile Properties Torsional Proponías
Minimum Modulus of Modulus in
Tensile Elasticity Torsion
Strength E Design G Maximum
St ress O O perati ng m M eth o d o f M anu f act uro
Nominal psi x 10' psi x 106 % Minimum psi x 106 Temperatura Rockwell Chief Uses
Material Chemistry (MPa] [MPa x 10' ] Tensile [MPa x 10' 1 T °C Hardness Special Properties
Music Wire C 0.70-1.00% 230-399 Cold drawn high and unitorm
ASTM A228 Mn 0,20-0,60% [1586-27511 tonsila. High quality springs
30 [2071 45 11.5 [79.31 250 121 C41-60
and wire forms. Suitable tor
cyclic applications.
Hard Drawn C 0.45-0.85% CLI 147-283 Cold drawn.
ASTM A 227 Mn 0.60-1.30% 11014-1951] Average stress applications.
30 [207] 40 11.5 [79.31 250 121 C31-52
2 CLII 171-324 Lower cost springs and wire
: [1179-2234] forms .
High Tensile Hard C 0.65-1.00% 238-350 Cold drawn.
0 Drawn Mn 0.20-1.30% [1641-2413] 30 [207] 45 11.5 [79.3] 250 121 C41-60 Higher quality spnngs and
ó ASTM A 679 wire forros.
á
Oil Temperad C 0.55-0.85% CLI 165-293 Cold drawn and hect Ireated
ASTM A 229 Mn 0.60-1.20% [1138-2020] before fabrication.
30 [2071 45 11.5 [79.3] 250 121 C42-55
CLII 191-324 General purpose spring wire.
[1317-2234]
Carbon Valve e 0.60-0.75% 215-240 Cold drawn and heat treated
ASTM A 230 Mn 0.60-0.90% [1482-1655] before fabrication. Good sur-
30 [207] 45 11.5 [79.3] 250 121 C45-49 faca condition and uniform
tensile. Suitable for cyclic
applications.
Grade B-Carbon e 0.55-0.75% 195 - 275 Annealed and cold drawn or
ASTM Al 000 Mn 0.60-0.90 % [1350 - 1897] 30 [207] 45 11.5 [79.3] 250 121 C45-49 oil tempered, as specified by
cy purchaser.
P Grade C - Chrome e 0.06-0.07% 210-270 Annealed and cold drawn or
. Vanadium Mn 0.50-0.90% [1450 - 1860] oil tempered, as specified by
30 [207] 45 11 . 5 [79 . 3] 425 218 C41 -55
ASTM Al 000 Cr 0.35-0.60% purchaser.
V 0.10-0.50%
Grade A -Chrome C 0.51-0.59% 231-305 Annealed and cold drawn or
co Silicon Mn 0.50-0.80% [1590 - 2100] oil tempered, as specified by
ASTM Al 000 Cr 0.6-0.8% 3012071 45 11.5 [79.3] 475 245 C48-55 purchaser.
Sil 0.20-1.60%
a
m
c Grade D - Chrome C 0.55-0.68% 245 - 320 Annealed and cold drawn or
Silicon Vanadium Mn 0.60- 0.90% [1690 - 2200] oil tempered, as specified by
30 12071 45 11.5 [79.3] 450 230 C45-55
tj ASTM A1000 Cr 0.35-0.60% purchaser.
Sil 1.20-1.60%
 Tensile Properties Torsional Properties
Minimum Modulus of Modulus in
Tensile Elasticity Design Torsion Maximum
Strength E Stress O G Operating ® Method of Manufacture
Nominal psi x 10' psi x 10° % Minimum psi x 10° Temperatura Rockwell Chief Uses
Material Chemistry ( MPa] [MPa x 10' ] Tensile [MPa x 10' ] ° F sC Hardness Special Properties
Chrome Vanadium C 0.48-0.53% 190-300 Cold drawn and heal treated
ASTM A 231 Cr 0.80-1.10% [1310-2069] belore fabricalion . Used for
30 [207] 45 11.5 [79.3] 425 218 C41-55
V 0.15 min% shock loads and moderately
elevated temperature.
Chrome Vanadium C 0.48-0.53% 190 - 300 Cold drawn and heat treated
Valva Mn 0.70-0.90% [1310 - 2069] before fabrication. Used for
30 [207] 45 11.5 [79.3] 425 218 C41-55
ASTM A232 Cr 0.80-1.10% shock loads and moderately
V 0.15 min% elevated temperaturas.
d Chrome Vanadium C 0.60-0.75% 205-290 Annealed and cold drawn,
Valve - Modilied Mn 0.50-0.90% [1414 - 2000] hardened and tempered
M. ASTM A878 Cr 0.35-0,60% 30 [207] 45 11.5 [79.3] 430 220 C41-45 before fabrication. Used for
in v 010-0.25% shock loads and moderately
ó elevated temperaturas
a Chrome Silicon C 0.51-0.59% 235-300 Cold drawn and heat treated
ASTM A 401 Cr 0.60-0.80% [1620-2069] before fabrication. Used for
30 [207] 45 11.5 [79.3] 475 245 C48-55
Si 1.20-1.60% shock loads and moderately
elevated lemperature.
Chrome Silicon C 0.51-0.59% 245-305 Cold drawn and hardened
Valve Mn 0.50-0.80% [1690 - 2100] and temperad before
ASTM A877 Cr 0.60-0.80% 30 [207] 45 11.5 [79.3] 475 245 C48-55 fabrication. For shock
Sil 1.20-1.60% loading and moderately
higher temperaturas
AISI 302/304 Cr 17.0-19.0% 125-325 Cold drawn general purpose
ASTM A 313 Ni 8.0-10.0% [862-2241 28 [ 193] 35 10 [69 .0[ 550 288 C35-45 corrosion and heat resistant.
Magnetic in spring temper.
R AISI 316 Cr 16.0-18.0% 110-245 Cold drawn. Heat resistant
ASTM A 313 Ni 10.0-14.0% [758-1689] and better corrosion resis-
28 [193[ 40 10 [69.0[ 550 288 C35-45
Mo 2.0-3.0% lance than 302. Magnetic in
spring temper.
17-7 PH Cr 16.0-18.0% Cond CH Cold drawn and precipitalion
^`- ASTM A 313 [631] Ni 6.5-7.5% 235-335 hardened after fabrication.
m Al 0.75-1.5% [1620-2310] High strength and general
29.5 [203] 45 11 [75.8] 650 343 C38-57
purpose corrosion resis-
tance. Slightly magnetic in
spring temper.
 Tensile Properties Torsional Properties
Minimum Modulus of Modulus in
Tensile Elasticity Torsion Maximum
Design
Strength E Stress O G Operating ® Method of Manufacture
Nominal psi x 10' psi x 106 % Minimum psi x 10° Temperatura Rockwell Chef Uses
Material Chemistry [MPa] [MPa x 10 ' ] Tensile [MPa x 103 ] °F °C Hardness Special Properties

Phosphor Bronze Cu 94.0-96.0% 105-145 Cold drawn. Good corrosion

Grade A Sn 4.0-6.0% [724-10001 15 [103] 40 6.25 [43.1] 200 93.3 B98-104 resistance and electrical
ASTM B 159 conductivity.
u Cold drawn and may be mili
Beryllium Copper Cu 98.0% 150-230
ASTM B 197 Be 2.0% [1034-1586] hardened before fabrication.
ó 18.5 [128] 45 7.0 [48.3] 400 204 C35-42 Good corrosion resistance
and electrical conductivity.
High physicas.
ó
`i Monel 400 Ni 66.0% 145-180 Cold drawn. Good Corrosion
AMS 7233 Cu 31.5% [1000-1241] 26 [179] 40 9.5 [65.5] 450 232 C23-32 resistance at moderately
elevaled temperature.
0
z 1

Monel K 500 Ni 65.0% 160-200 Excellent corrosion resis-

QQ-N-286a [Fed] Cu 29.5% [1103-1379] 26 [179] 40 9.5 [65.5] 550 288 C23-35 tance at moderately elevated
temperature.
A 286 Alloy Ni 26.0% 160-200 Cold drawn and precipitation
[no spring spec] Cr 15.0% [1103-1379] hardenetl alter fabrication.
29 [200] 35 10.4 [71.7] 950 510 C35-42
Fe Good corrosion resistance at
53.0% elevated temperature.

Inconel 600 Ni 76.0% 100-230 Cold drawn. Good corro-

ASTM B 166 Cr 15.8% [1172-1586] 31 [2141 40 11.0 [75.8] 700 371 C35-45 sion resistance at elevaled
Fe 7.2% temperature.

Inconel 718 Ni 52.5% 210-250 Cold drawn and precipitation

m [no spring spec] Cr 18.6% [1448-17241 hardenetl alter fabrication.
29 [200] 40 11.2 [77.2] 1100 593 C45-50
Fe Good corrosion resistance at
18.5% elevated temperature.

Inconel x 750 Ni 73.0% No. IT 155 Cold drawn and precipitation

AMS 5698, 5699 Cr 15.0% Min. hardened after fabrication.
= Fe [1069] 750- 399- C34-39 Good corrosion resistance al
31 [2141 40 12 [82.71
6.75% Spg. T 190- 1100 593 C42-48 elevated temperature.
230
[1310-1586]
 Tensile Properties Torsional Properties
Minimum Modulus ot Modulus in
Tensile Elasticity Design Torsion Maximum
Strength E Stress O G Operating ® Method of Manufacture
Nominal psi x 10' psi x 106 % Minimum psi x 106 Temperatura Rockwell Chief Uses
Material Chemistry ] MPa] [MPa x 10' ] Tonsila [MPa x 106 ] 'F °C Hardness Special Properties
Elgiloy Co 39.0-41.0% 270-330 Cold drawn and aged . Excel-
[R30003] Cr 19.0-21.0% [1862-2275] lent corrosion resistance in
AMS 5833 Ni 15.0-16.0% 32 [221] 45 12.0 [82.8] 850 454 C40-60 sour environments. Non-
Mo 6.0-8.0% magnetic.
Fe Bal
MP35N Co Bal 260 Cold drawn and aged. Excel-
[R30035] Ni 33.0-37.0% [1793] len! corrosion resistance in
34 [235] 45 11.7 [80.7] 750 399 C35-55
AMS 5844 Cr 110-21.0% sour environments.
Mo 9.0-10.5%
NiSpan C Fe Bal 150-190 Precipitation hardenable.
[N09902] Ni 41.0-43.5% [1034-1310] Constant modulus alloy
24 - 29 [166 -
Cr 4.9-5.75% 40 9-10 [62-69] 150 66 which is heat treatment
N 200]
Ti 2.2-2.75% dependent.
3 Al 0.3-0.8%
C276 Ni Bal 100-200 High corrosion resistance.
[N10276] Cr 14.5-16.5 % [690-1379] Highertemperatures pos-
ASTM B574 Mo 15.0-17.0% 30.7 [210] 40 11.8 [81.4] 700 371 sible. with lower stresses.
W 3.0-4.5%
Fe 4.0-7.0%
C22 Ni Bal 100-200 High corrosion resistance.
EL [N06022] Cr 20.0-22.5% [690-1379] Higher temperaturas pos-
m ASTM B574 Mo 12.5-14.5% 30.8 [212] 40 11.8 [81.4] 700 371 sible with lower stresses.
W 2.5-3.5%
Fe 2.0-6.0%
Rene41 Ni Bal 135-200 Hightemperatureapplica-
[N07041] Cr 18.0-20.0% [931-1379] tions possible with goad
Mo 9.0-10.5% corrosion/oxidation resis-
31.6 [2181 40 12.1 [83.4] 1800 982
Co 10.0-12.0% tance.
Ti 3.0-3.3%
Al 1.4-1.6%
Ti -e-6-4-4 Ti Bal 180-210 Cold drawn and aged for
(R58640] Al 3.0-4.0% [1241-1448] best spring characteris-
AMS 4957 V 7.5-8.5% tics. Non-magnetic. Good
15.4 [106] 40 5.9 [40.7] 600 316
Cr 5.5-6.5% strength/weight ratio. Low
Mo 3.5-4.5% modulus.
Zr 3.5-4.5%
M
 Tensile Properties Torsional Properties
Minimum Modulus of Modulus in
Tensile Elasticity
r Torsion Maximum
Design
Strength Stress O G Operating ® Method of Manufacture
Nominal psi x 10' psi x 10° % Minimum psi x 10° Temperatura Rockwell Chief Uses
Material Chemistry [MPa] [MPax1O] Tensile [MPax1O ] "F °C Hardness Special Properties

Medium Carbon C 0.47-0.55% 160-280 B85 Max. Cold rolled annealed or

$ ASTM A 682 Mn 0.60-0.90% [1103-1931] Annld. tempered. General purpose
30 [2071 250 121
AISI1050 C38-50 applications.
Temp.
^ Regular Carbon C 0.69-0.80% 160-320 B85 Max. Coltl rolled annealed or
ASTM A 682 Mn 058-0.80% [1103-2206] Annld. tempered. Most popular for
30 [207] 250 121
AISI 1074 C38-50 fiar springs.
Temp.

6 High Ca m on C 0.90-1.04% 180-340 1388 Max. Cold rolled annealed or

o ASTM A 682 Mn 0.30-0.50% [1241-2344] Annld. temperad. High stress fíat
30 [207] 250 121
AISI 1095 C40-52 springs.
Ú
Temp.

ASTM A 666 Cr 16.0-18.0% 240-270 Cold rolled te high yield

Ni 6.0-8.0% [1655-1862] 28 [193] 300 149 C48-52 strength . Magnetic in spring
temper.

ASTM A 666 Cr 17.0-19.0% 185-230 Cold rolled. General purpose

m. Ni 8.0-10.0% [1276- 1586] 28 [193[ 550 288 C42-48 corrosion and heat resistan.
Magnetic in spring temper.

AISI 316 Cr 110-18.0% 170-230 Cold rolled heat resistant and

co Ni 10.0-14.0% [1172-1586[ better corrosion resistance
28 [193] 550 288 C38-48
Me 2.0.3.0% than 302. Magnetic in spring
m temper.
17-7 PH Cr 16.0-18.0% Cond CH Cold rolled and precipitation
ASTM A 693 [631] Ni 6.5-7.5% 240 Min. hardened alter fabrication.
AMS 5529 Al 0.75-1.5% [1655] High strength and general
29 [200] 650 343 C46 Min.
purpose corrosion res i s-
tance. Magnetic in spring
temper.

Chrome Vanadium C 0.48-0.53% 200-250 Cold rolled and heal treated

4 AMS 6455 Cr 0.80-1.10% [1379-1724[ aler fabrication. Used for
30 [207] 425 218.5 C42-48
la V 0.15 Min. % shock loads and moderately
m elevated temperature.
m
ra Chrome Silicon C 0.51-0.59% 250-325 Cold rolled and hect treated
ó AIS 9254 Cr 0.50-0.80% [1724-22411 after fabrication. Used for
3012071 475 246 C47-51
Si 1.20-1.60% shock Ioads and moderately
elevated temperature.
 Tensile Properties Torsional Properties
Minimum Modulus of Modulus in
Tensile Elasticity Design Torsion Maximum
Sirength E Stress O G Operaling ® Method of Manufacture
Nominal psi x 10' psi x 106 % Minimum psi x 106 Temperatura Hockwell Chief Uses
Material Chemistry ¡ MPa] [MPa x 10' ] Tonsila [MPa x 10' j T °C Hardness Special Properties
Phosphor Bronze Cu 94.0-96.0 % 95-110 Cold rolled . Good corrosion
Grade A Sn 4.0-6.0% [655-758] 15 [103] 200 93 . 3 B94-98 resistance and electrical
ASTM B103 conductivity.
Beryllium Copper Cu 98.0% 180-200 Cold rolled and may be mill
0 ASTM B194 Be 2.0% [1241-1379] hardened before fabrication.
16- 18.5
400 204 C39 Good corrosion resistance
á [t t 1 1281
and electrical conductivity.
High physicals.
É
Monel 400 Ni 66.0 % 100-140 Cold rolled . Good corrosion
AMS 4544 Cu 31.5% [690-765] 26 [179] 450 232 B98 Min. resistance at moderately
zo elevated temperature.
Monel K 500 Ni 65.0% 170-200 Excellent corrosion resis-
QQ - N - 286 © Cu 29.5% [ 1172-1379] 26 [179] 550 288 C34 Min. lance at moderately elevated
C/Fe/AI/ü temperature.
A 286 Alloy Ni 26.0% 160-200 Cold rolled and precipitation
AMS 5525 Cr 15.0% [1103-1379] hardened after fabrication.
29 [200] 950 510 C30-40
Fe Good corrosion resistance at
53.0% elevated temperatura.
m Inconel 600 Ni 76.0% 145-170 Good corrosion resistance at
á AMS 5540 Cr 15.8% [1000-1172] elevated temperature.
31 [218] 700 371 C30 Min .
ASTM B 168 Fe
T 7.2%
Inconel718 Ni 52.5% 180-204 Cold rolled and precipitalion
AMS 5596, 5597 Cr 18.6% [1241-1407] hardened after fabrication.
E
Fe
29 [200] 1100 593 C36
F Good corrosion resistance at
o, 18.5% elevated temperature.
M Inconel x 750 Ni 73.0% 150 Cold rolled and precipitation
AMS 5542 Cr 15.0% [1034] 750- 399- hardened aller fabrication.
31 [214] 3Min
co
Fe 1100 593 Good corrosion resistance at
6.75% elevated temperature.
 Tensile Properties Torsional Properties
Minimum Modulus of Modulus in
Tensile Elasticity Torsion Maximum
Design
Strengih E Stress e) G Operating © Method of Manufacture
Nominal psi x 10' psi x 106 % Minimum psi x 106 Temperature Rockwell Chiet Uses
Material Chemistry [MPa] [MPa x 106 ] Tensile [ MPa x 1 06 ] °F aC Hardness Special Properties

Elgiloy Co 39 . 0-41.0% 170-325 Cold drawn and aged. Excel-

[R30003] Cr 19.0-21.0 % [ 1172-2241] lentcorrosion resistance in
AMS 5875 Ni 15.0-16.0% 32 [221] 45 12 .0 [82.8] 850 454 C40-58 sour environments. Non-
Mo 6.0-8 . 0% magnetic. w
Fe Bal
MP35N Co Bal 200 Cold drawn and aged. Excel-
-'c IR300351 Ni 33.0-37.0% [13791 lent corrosion resistance in
34 [2351 45 11.7 [80 .7] 750 399 035-50
in Cr 19 . 0-21.0% sour environments.
Me 9.0-10.5%
NiSpan C Fe Bal 150-190 Precipitation hardenable.
ó Constant modulus alloy
[N09902] Ni 41 . 0-43.5 % [ 1034-1310]
24-29 1 166 which is heat trealment
AMS 5521 Cr 4.9-5.75 % 40 9-10 [62-69] 150 66
200] dependent.
AMS 5223 Ti 2.2-2.75%
AMS 5525 Al 0.3-0.8%
a C276 Ni Bal 100-200 High corrosion resistance.
[N10276] Cr 14.5-16.5% [690-1379 ] Higher temperaturas pos-
en ASTM B575 Me 15.0-17.0% 30.7 [210] 40 11.8 [81,41 700 371 sible with lower stresses.
W 3.0-4.5%
Fe 4.0-7.0%
C22 Ni Bal 100-200 High corrosion resistance.
[N06022] Cr 20.0-22 . 5% [690-1379] Higher temperaturas pos-
ASTM B575 Me 12.5-14 5% 30.8 [2121 40 11.8 [81.4] 700 371 sible with lower stresses.
W 2.5-3.5%
Fe 2.0-6.0
 Table 21.
Minimum Tensile Strength of Wire Spring Materials - Ferrous
in psi x 10' [MPa]

Wire Size Wire Size

Music Wire Hard Dmwn Music Wire Hard Drawn Oil Temp.
in. [mm] in. [mm]
0.008 [0.20] 399 [27511 307 [2117] 0.050 [1.271 306 [2 1101 245 [16891
0.009 [0.231 393 [27101 305 [2103] 0.051 [1.29] 30312 089] 244 ¡16821
0.010 [0.25] 387 [2668[ 303 [2089[ 0.052 [1.32] 303 [2089] 244 [1682]
0.011 [0.28] 382[26341 301 [2075] 13 0.053 11.341 303 [2089] 243 [1675]
0.012 [0.30] 377 [2599] 299 [2062] 0.054 [1.37] 303 [2089] 243 [1675] 253 ¡17441
0.013 [0.33] 373 [2572] 297 (2048] 0.055 [1.39] 300 [2069] 242 [1669]
0.014 [0.36] 369 [2544] 295 [2034] 0.056 [1.42] 300 [2069] 241 [1662]
0.015 [0.38] 365 [2517] 293 [2020] 0.057 [1.44] 300 [2069] 240 [1655]
0.016 [0.411 362 [2496] 291 [2006] 0.058 [1.47] 300 [2069] 240 [1655]
0.017 [0.43] 362[24961 289 ¡19931 0.059 [1.50] 296 [2041] 239 [1646]
0.018 [0.46] 356 [2455] 287 [1979] 0.060 [1.52] 296 [20411 238 [16411
0.019 [0.48] 356[2455] 285 (1965] 0.061 [1.55] 296 [2041] 237 [1634]
0.020 [0.51] 350 [2413] 283 [1951] 0.062 [1.57] 296 [2041] 237 [1634[ 247 [1703]
0.021 [0.53] 350 [2413] 281 [1937] 0.063 [1.60] 293 [2020] 236 [1627[
0.022 [0.56] 345 [2379] 280 [19311 0.064 [1.62] 293 [2020] 235 [1620]
0.023 [0.58] 345 [2579] 278 [1917] 0.065 [ 1.651 293 [2020] 235 [1620]
0.024 [0.61] 341 [2351] 277 [1910] 0.066 [ 1.67[ 290 [2000]
0.025 [0.64] 341 [23511 275 [1896] 0.067 [1.70] 290 [2000] 234 [1613]
0.026 [0.66] 337 [2324] 274 [1889] 0.069 [1.75] 290 [2000] 233 [1607]
0.027 [0.69] 337 [2324] 272 [1875] 0.070 [1.78] 289 [1993]
0.028 [0.71] 333[22961 271 [1869] 283 [1951] 0.071 [1.80] 288 [1986]
0.029 [0.74] 333 [2296] 267118411 0.072 [1.83] 287 [1979] 232 [1600] 241 [1662]
0.030 [0.76] 330 [2275] 266 [1834] 0.074 [1.88] 287 [1979] 231 [15931
0.031 [0.79] 330 [2275] 266 [1834] 280 [19311 0.075 [1.90] 287 [1979]
0.032 [0.81] 327 [2255] 265 [1827] 0.076 [1.93] 284 [1958] 230 [1586]
0.033 [0.84] 327 [2255] 264 [1820] 0.0781 1.98J 284 [1958] 229 [1579]
0.034 [0.86] 324 [2234] 262 [1306] 0.079 [2.01 1 284 [1958]
0.035 [0.89] 324 [2234] 261 [1800] 274 [ 1889] 0.080 [2 .03] 282 [1944] 227 [1565] 235 ¡1620]
0.036 [0.91] 321 [2213] 260 [1793] 0.083 [2.11] 282 [1944]
0.037 [0.94] 321 [2213] 258 ¡17791 0.084 [2.13] 279 [1924]
0.038 [0.96] 318 [2193] 257 [1772] 0.085 [2.16] 279 [ 1926] 225 [15511
0.039 [0.99] 318 [2293] 256 [1765] 0.089 [2.26] 279 [1924]
0.040 [1.02] 315 [2172] 255 [1758] 0.090 [2.29] 276 [1903] 222 [1531 ]
0.041 [1.04] 315 [2172] 255 [17591 266 [1834] 0.091 [2.311 276 [1903] 230 [1586]
0.042 [1.07] 313 [2158] 254 [1751 1 0.092 (2.34] 276 [1930] 220 [1517]
0.043 [1.09] 313 [2158] 252 [1738] 0.093 [2.36] 276 [1903]
0.044 [1.12] 313 [2158] 251 [17311 0.094 [2.39] 274 [1889]
0.045 (1.14] 309 [2131] 250 [1724] 0.095 [2.42] 274 [1889] 219 [1510]
0.046 [1.17] 309 [2131] 249 [1717] 0.099 [2.51] 274 [1889]
0.047 [1.19] 309 [2131] 248 [1710] 259 [1786] 0.100 [2.54] 271 [1869]
0.048 [1.22] 306 [2110] 247 [1703] 0.101 [2.56] 271 [1869]
0.049 [1.241 306 [2110] 246 [1696] 0.102 [2.59] 270 [1862[

44, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

Tabla 21 continuad.
Minimum Tensile Strength of Wire Spring Materials - Ferrous
,. 1n3 FMP 1

Wire Size Wire Size Hard Drawn Oil Temp.

Music Wire Hard graven Oil Temp. Music Wire
in. [mm] in. [mm]
0.105 [2.67] 270 [1862] 216 [1489] 225 [1551 ] 0.148 [3.76] 254 [17511 203 [1400] 210 [1448]

0.106 [2.69] 268 [ 1842] 0.149 [3 .78] 253 [1744]

0.109 [2.77] 268 [1842] 0.150 [3.81] 253 [1744]

0.110 [2.79] 267 [18411 0.151 [3.84] 251 [17311

0.111 [2.82] 267 [18411 0.160 [4.06] 251 [17311

0.112 [2.84] 266 [1834] 0.161 [4.09] 249 [1717]

0.119 [3.02] 266 [1834] 0.162 [4.11] 249 [1717] 200 [1379] 205 [1413]

0.120 [3.05] 263 [1813] 210 [1448] 220 [1517] 0.177 [4.50] 245 [1689] 195 [1345] 200 [1379]

0.123 [3.12] 263 [1813] 0.192 [4.88] 241 [1662] 192 [1324] 195 [1345]

0.124 [3.15] 261 [18001 0.207 [5.26] 238 [16411 190 [1310] 190 [1310]

0.129 [3.28] 261 [1800] 0.225 [5.72] 235 [16201 186 [1282] 188 [1296]

0.130 [3.30] 258 [1779] 0.250 [6.35] 230 [1586] 182 [1255] 185 [1276]

0.135 [3.43] 258 [1779] 206 [1420] 215 [1482] 0.3125 [7.94] 174 [1200] 183 [1262]

0.139 [3.53] 258 [1779] 0.375 [9.53] 167 [1151] 180 [1241]

0.140 [3.56] 256 [1765] 0.4375 [11.111 165 [1138] 175 [1207]

0.144 [3.66] 256 [1765] 0.500 [12.70] 156 [1076] 170 [1172]

0.145 [3.68] 254 [17511

SMI Handbook of Spring Design, 45

 Table 22.
Minimum Tensile Strength of Wire Spring Materials - Stainless Steels
in psi x 10' [MPa]

Wire Size TYPe * 17-7 Wire Size Type* 17-7 Wire Size
TYPe 302 TYPe 302 TYpe* 17-7
in. [mm] PH in. [mm] PH in. [mm] TYPe 302 PH
0.008 [0.20] 325 [2241 1 345 [2379] 0.033 [0.84] 276 [1903] 0.061 [1.55] 255 [1758] 305 [2103]
0.009 [0.231 325 [2241] 0.034 [0.86] 275 [18961 0.062 [1.57] 255 [1758] 297 [2048]
0.010 [0.251 320 [2206] 345 [2379] 0.035 [0.891 274 [ 18891 0.063 [1.601 254 [17511
0.011 [0.28] 318 [21931 340 [23441 0.036 [0.911 273 [1882] 0.065 [1.65] 254 [17511
0.012 [0.30] 316 [21791 0.037 [0.94] 272 [1875] 0.066 [1.68] 250 [1724]
0.013 [0.331 314 [2165] 0.038 [0.97] 271 [18691 0.071 [1.80] 250 [1724] 297 [20481
0.014 [0.36] 312 [21511 0.039 [0.99] 270 [18621 0.072 [1.831 250 [17241 292 [2013]
0.015 [0.381 310 [2137] 340 [23441 0.040 [1.021 270 [1862] 0.075 [1.911 250 [17241
0.016 [0.411 308 [21241 335 [2310] 0.041 [1.04] 269 [1855] 320 [2206] 0.076 [1.931 245 [1689]
0.017 [0.43] 306 [2110] 0.042 [1.07] 268 [1848] 310 [2137] 0.080 [2.03] 245 [1689] 292 [2013]
0.018 [0.46] 304 [2096] 0.043 [1.09] 267 [18411 0.092 [2.34] 240 [1655] 279 [1924]
0.019 [0.481 302 [2082] 0.044 [1.12] 266 [1824] 0.105 [2.671 232 [16001 274 [1889]
0.020 [0.51 ] 300 [2069] 335 [2310] 0.045 [1.14] 264 ¡18201 0.120 [3.05] 225(1551] 272 [1875]
0.021 10.531 298 [20551 330 [2275] 0.046 [1.17] 263 [1813] 0.125 [3.10] 272 [18751
0.022 [0.561 296[2041] 0.047 [1.19] 262 [1806] 0.131 [3.33] 260 [17931
0.023 [0.58] 294 [20271 0.048 [1.221 262 [18061 0.148 [3.761 210 [14481 256 [1765]
0.024 [0.611 292 [20131 0.049 [1.24] 261 [1800] 0.162 [4.11 ] 205 [14131 256 [17651
0.025 [0.641 290 [20001 330 [22751 0.051 [1.30] 261 [1800] 310 [2137] 0.177 [4.50] 195 [1345]
0.026 [0.66] 289 [19931 325 [22411 O.05211.321 260 [17931 305 [2103] 0.192 [4.88]
0.027 [0. 69] 287 [1979] 0.055 [1.401 260 [1793] 0.207 [5. 26] 185 [1276]
0.028 [0.711 286 [1972] 0.056 [1.421 259 [1786] 0.225 [5.721 180 [12411
0.29 [0.74] 284 [1958] 0.057 [1.451 258 117791 0.250 [6.35] 175 [1207]
0.030 [0.761 282[19441 325 [2241] 0.058 [1.47] 258 [17791 0.375 [9.53] 140 [965]
0.031 [0.79] 280J19311 320 [2206] 0.059 [1.50] 257 [1772]
0.032 [0.811 277 [1910] l lllj 0.060 [1.52] 256 [17651

46, SMI Handbook of Spring Design

Table 22 continued.

Chrome Silicon/Chrome Vanadium Copper-Base Alloys

Wire Size In . Chrome Phosphor Bronze (Grade A)

Chrome Silicon
[mm] Vanadium Wire Size Range - in. [mm]
0.020 [0.511 300 [2069] 0.007 - 0.025 [0.18 - 0.64] 145 [1000]
0.026 - 0.062 [10.65 - 1.53] 135 [931]
0.032 10.811 300 [2069] 290 [2000]
0.063 and over [1.59 and over] 130 [896]
0.041 [1.04] 298 [2055] 280 [1931]
Beryllium Copper
0.054 [1.37] 292 12013] 270 [1862] (Alloy 25 pretemp)
0.062 [1.57] 290 [2000] 265 [1827] 0.005 - 0.040 [0.13 - 1.02] 180 [12411
0.041 and ovar [1.03 and over] 170 [1172]
0.080 [2.03] 285 [1965] 255 [1758]
Spring Brass
0.092 [2.34] 280 [19311
al1 sizes 120 [827]
0.105 [2.67] 245 [1689]
0.120 [3.05] 275 [18961
Nickel-Base Allovs
0.135 [3.43] 270 [1862] 235 [1620]
0.162 [3.76] 265 [18271 225 [1551] Inconel (Spring Temper)
0.177 [4.50] 260 [1793] Wire Size Range - in. [mm]
up to 0.057 [ 1.45] 185 [1276]
0.192 [4.89] 260 [17931 220 [1517] 0.057 - 0.114 [1.46 - 2.89] 175 [12071
0.218 [5.54] 255 [1758] 0114 - 31812.90 -8.081 170 [1172]
0.250 [6.35] 250 [1724] 210 [1448] Inconel X
Spring Temper After Anging
0.312 [7.92] 245 [1689] 203 [1400]
190 [1310] 220 [1517]
0.375 [9.531 240 [1655] 200 [1379]
0.437 [11.10] 195 [1345]
0.500 [12.7] 190 [1310]

Table 23.
Wire Size Tolerance Charts

Hard- Drawn / Oil-Terppered Chrome Silicon

Wire Size Range - in. [mm] Tolerance t in. [mm] Wire Size Range - in. [mm] Tolerance t in. [mm]
0.010 - 0.0199 [0.25 - 0.50] ± 0.0005 [0.0131 0.032 - 0.072 [0.081 - 1.82] t 0.001 [0.025]
0.020 - 0.0347 [0.50 - 0.88] ± 0.0006 [0.015] 0.0721-0.375[1.83-9.53] ] ± 0.002 [0.051]
0.0348 - 0.051 [0.89 - 1.29] ± 0.0008 [0.0201
0.0511 - 0.075 [1.30 - 1.90] ± 0.001 [0.025] Chrome Vanadium
0.0751 - 0.109 [1.91 - 2.76] i 0.0015 [0.0381 Wire Size Range - in. [mm] Tolerance ± in. [mm]
0.1091 - 0.250 [2 .77 - 6.35] ± 0.002 [0,0511 0.020 - 0.0275 [0.51 - 0.69] ± 0.0008 [0.020]
0.2501 - 0.375 [6.36 - 9.52] t 0.0025 [0.064] 0.0276 - 0.072 [0.70 - 1.82] ± 0.001 [0.025]
0.3751 - 0.625 [9.53 - 15.88] x 0.003 [0.076] 0.0721 - 0.375 [1.83 - 9.52] ± 0.002 [0.051]
0.3751 - 0.500 [9.53 - 12.7] ± 0.003 [0.076]
Music Wire
Wire Size Range - in. [mm] Tolerance 3 in. [mm] Type 302 Stainless 1 17-7 PH Stainless
0.004 - 0.010 [0 . 10 - 0.25] t 0.0002 [0.005] Wire Size Range - in. [mm] Tolerance ± in. [mm]
0.011 - 0.028 [0.28 - 0.711 t 0.0003 [0.007] 0.007 - 0.0079 [0.13 - 0.20] ± 0.0002 [0.0051
0.029 - 0,063 [0.72 - 1.60] x 0.0004 [0.010] 0.008 - 0.0119 [0 . 21 - 0.30] ± 0.00025 [0.006]
0.064 - 0.080 [1.61 - 2.031 s 0.0005 [0.013] 0.012 - 0.0239 [0.31 - 0.60] ± 0.0004 [0.010]
0.081 - 0.250 (2.04 - 6.35] x 0.001 [0.025] 0.024 - 0.0329 [0.61 - 0.831 ± 0.0005 [0.013]
0.033-0.0439 [0.84-1.11] ± 0.00075 [0.0191
0.044 and largor [1.12 and largor] :0.001 [0.025]

SMI Handbookof Spring Design, 47

48, SMI Handbook of Spring Design