Posted to News on 20th May 2010, 00:00
Miniature springs when size really does matter
We reported on these briefly in the February issue of Industrial Technology, but didn't realise exactly how small these springs were until we saw them at the Southern Manufacturing exhibition. And you can take our word on it that when Lee Spring says it has responded to the challenge of miniaturisation, then it really isn't kidding.
Of course, as components get smaller, so do the requirements for Springs. The Lee Spring Bantam Mini compression springs are designed to do the job for you when size really does matter. Combining strength with corrosion resistance, the smallest Bantam Mini spring features a wire diameter size of 0.102mm (0 .004in), just slightly thicker than a human hair, and the range extends up to 0.140mm (0 .0055in) in standard outside diameters of 0.635mm (0.025in), 1.016mm (0 .040in) and 1.448mm (0.057in).
To meet the performance needs of a potentially diverse range of applications the springs are manufactured in Elgiloy - a cobalt-chromium-nickel alloy known for its high strength. It is 10% stronger than Type 316 stainless steel and exhibits superior corrosion resistance. Elgiloy also performs well in temperatures up to 454°C (850°F) and is non-magnetic.
Applications areas envisaged include medical devices and pharmaceutical delivery products plus petrochemical processes, aerospace and marine industries. Custom designs will be offered in Elgiloy as well as other alloys.
