What Are Flat Springs?

Flat springs are flat strips of material (usually metal) that store and release energy when deflected by an external load. Unlike helical springs, which are typically made from coiled wire, flat springs are cut or pressed from sheet metal. They come in various shapes and sizes, usually produced by flat spring manufacturers to suit specific applications; many are small, stamped pieces of metal that control deflection in restricted spaces. They are favoured in applications in which space is limited or when the spring is part of a more extensive mounting assembly.

If you look at the shape of some flat springs, it can be hard to comprehend how they can be classified as springs. Many of these springs simply look like metal pressings and don't appear to offer much flexibility – a requirement for storing and releasing energy effectively. But, providing the spring has been made from high-grade material and manufactured to precision, flat springs can store and release energy as effectively as their helical counterparts under the right conditions.

APPLICATION FOR Flat Springs

Custom spring manufacturers can create flat springs in a massive range of different forms, with the potential for entirely bespoke shapes and pressings, suitable for numerous applications across a wide variety of industries. Some examples of flat springs and their uses include:

Electrical contacts – a flat, flexible piece of metal that completes an electrical circuit when pressed    Cantilever springs – flat springs supported at one end and holding a load at or near the other end    Leaf Springs – predominantly used in automobile suspensionBelleville washers – also know as a coned-disc spring, conical spring washer or disc spring. They allow flexibility to a bolted joint or bearing    Spring clips – for everything from holding pictures inside picture frames to shelf edge clips to U Clips

What Materials Are Flat Springs Made From?

Flat springs can be manufactured from various metals and alloys, although the process is much different to creating helical springs as flat springs are pressed or cut from sheet metal rather than formed from wire. Your chosen material will depend on the end application, but it is possible to create flat springs from:

Copper Bronze Carbon Steel, Spring Steel 65Mn, and Stainless Steels Brass Aluminium Beryllium Copper, Nickel-based alloys

Special consideration must be given when manufacturing flat springs and pressings, particularly custom designs. Many carbon and stainless steels will require treating, hardening or tempering after forming to ensure strength and corrosion resistance. Small, delicate flat springs need to be treated with care, particularly during the de-burring process, which can influence the function of the spring.

If you' re looking to purchase flat springs or pressings, always make sure to choose reputable, high-quality spring manufacturers. It' s important to work with a company that will be honest, and upfront about the costs and processes involved in creating and testing bespoke springs are fittings. Contact us today if you would like more information about how we can help with your customer spring requirements.