In torsion spring construction, the choice of material impacts its key properties, including elasticity, durability, and cost. While steel and stainless steel are traditional options, a growing interest in non-standard materials is prevalent due to their versatility. For example, the maritime industry often uses plastic springs to avoid corrosion. This article discusses non-traditional materials such as specific types of plastics, rubbers, and rare metals. The properties a material provides, like low-corrosion for plastic or higher tensile strength for rubber, should match the demands of your application.
Rubbers
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Silicone Rubber : This material is known for its flexibility and resilience. Its ability to endure high temperatures makes it a selected material for torsion springs in motor coil design. Its high-temperature endurance functions in preserving the spring's shape and operational characteristics.
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Natural Rubber : This material has a high tensile strength and can rapidly regain its original form after deformation. Oils and fats demote its quality. A practical use of torsion springs made from natural rubber is in a vehicle's suspension system where produces dynamic changes in shape and prompt recovery are needed.
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EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) Rubber : As a synthetic substance, EPDM rubber shows considerable resistance to environmental factors such as changes in weather conditions, ozone, UV radiation, and variations in temperature. Nonetheless, its tensile strength is inferior compared to other types of rubber. These attributes make it an adequate choice for outdoor torsion springs needing substantial environmental resilience, such as those in outdoor antennas, yet high tensile strength is not a predominant requirement.
Plastics
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Acetal : As an engineering plastic, acetal possesses strength, rigidity, and dimensional stability. These qualities are important for torsion springs, as they must retain their shape under differing loads. Acetal has demonstrated its rigidity by resisting deformation under stress in various settings, including automobile clutch assemblies.
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PEEK (polyetheretherketone) : PEEK attributes consist of mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and heat endurance. These attributes render it suitable for thermal environments. However, PEEK can be expensive, so it's not always a viable option for projects with tight budgets. PEEK is used for torsion springs in sectors like aviation, as it meets their demand for high heat resistance.
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Polycarbonate : Polycarbonate provides impact resistance and electrical insulation. These characteristics make it desirable for environments requiring high resilience and electrical safety. This material is not suitable for high-temperature applications due to thermal degradation. The electronics industry often uses polycarbonate springs as they are non-conductive and because of the consistent, moderate temperatures in these settings.
Non Traditional Metals
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Titanium : Titanium has a higher cost than many other commonly used metals but offers specific properties that make it a desirable choice. It has a large strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for applications where the spring's weight is a significant factor, such as in aerospace equipment. It also provides the advantage of corrosion resistance, which potentially extends the component's lifespan.
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Beryllium Copper : Beryllium copper is used in torsion springs where electrical and thermal conductivity is required. It is used in areas like electronics where the spring needs to transfer electrical charges, as it helps minimize charge accumulation that could potentially be harmful to the components.
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Nickel Alloy : Nickel alloy is selected for corrosion-resistance, making it suitable for torsion springs used in environments with considerable corrosion risks. Maritime industry equipment, which often suffers exposure to saltwater causing corrosion, can benefit from using a nickel alloy spring. The material's corrosion resistance can extend the spring's lifespan and maintain a stable performance.
Conclusion
Non-traditional materials for torsion springs broaden opportunities for inventive engineering designs. Rather than relying solely on typical metals, the introduction of materials such as rubbers, plastics, or unconventional metals encourages bespoke spring design. These materials can withstand demanding settings. Opting for non-traditional elements does not imply a compromise on quality or durability. Combining these materials into spring design promotes the performance of engineering products while keeping their reliability and lifespan.