Federwerkstoff
Federwerkstoff, also known as spring material, refers to a class of materials specifically engineered for their ability to deform elastically under load and return to their original shape once the load is removed. This characteristic makes them ideal for applications requiring energy storage and release, or for creating a restoring force. Common examples include various steel alloys, particularly carbon steels and stainless steels, which offer a good balance of strength, elasticity, and corrosion resistance. Non-ferrous alloys like beryllium copper and phosphor bronze are also utilized, especially where non-magnetic properties or higher electrical conductivity are required. The selection of a specific federwerkstoff depends heavily on the intended application, considering factors such as the required spring rate, operating temperature, environmental conditions, and desired lifespan. Understanding the material's stress-strain behavior, fatigue strength, and susceptibility to creep is crucial for designing reliable spring components. Heat treatment processes play a significant role in achieving the desired properties in many federwerkstoffe.