Choosing the Right Material for Your Custom Spring

Do you know the right material for your custom spring? 

Technically, it’s possible to make a spring out of nearly any manufacturable material. But just because a material can be used for a spring doesn’t mean that it should be. 

Not all materials can withstand the repetition and pressure that springs are subject to in the field. That’s why it’s important to find the right material for the type of precision spring your project needs.

If you’re not sure which material to choose or want to learn about the various options, we’re happy to explain it to you: 

Common Materials for Custom Springs

Here’s a look at some of the most common materials used for custom springs: 

Music wire

Custom Spring

Made out of basic carbon spring steel, music wire is by far the most commonly used spring material. It’s a cost-effective option that boasts strong performance for the price. Music wire holds up well under somewhat high temperature conditions, functioning well at temperatures of up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

It’s important to note, however, that carbon steel is not corrosion resistant. Therefore, we don’t typically recommend music wire for outdoor applications or wet environments without a finish or coating to provide additional protection.

Stainless steel

When you need better corrosion resistance and functionality while your spring is exposed to high heat, stainless steel is usually the go-to option. Stainless steels are more expensive than basic steels, however using them often removes the need for secondary finish processes. There are a few grades of stainless steel for custom springs to choose from, including:

Inconel X

Inconel X is used far less frequently than music wire or stainless steel—in part because it’s much more expensive. However, Inconel X can be a good choice for a small number of applications. This exotic material can withstand extremely high temperatures up to 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Other materials 

Other material options like brass, beryllium copper, and phosphor bronze are even less common, which make them more expensive and harder to source. These specialty materials are selected for specific properties such as: magnetic properties, corrosion resistance, electrical conductivity, resistance to acidic environments, or resistance to salt water environments.

While metal is considered the standard material for custom springs, 3D printers have recently begun producing plastic springs as well. 

How to Choose a Precision Spring Material

Now that you know the most common spring materials, consider these factors when choosing the right one for your custom spring: 

No matter your spring needs, Orlando Precision can help find a suitable material for you. It all starts with a conversation. Whether you need a spring designed from scratch or reverse engineered, hearing about your spring’s application helps us recommend the best material for you. 

Request a quote for your custom spring today!