Abstract:

ESDU 83002 provides a graphical presentation of the allowable stresses in both compression and tension springs for static or fatigue loading of common spring materials. Data are given for 6 carbon steels, 4 alloy steels, 6 stainless steels, 3 titanium alloys, beryllium, copper and phosphor bronze to British, U.S. and German standards. The influence on fatigue life of spring geometry, elevated temperature, corrosive environments and surface finish are discussed and treatments that improve fatigue life such as prestressing, shot peening, abrasive cleaning and low temperature heat treatment are examined. A procedure for estimating a complete stress versus endurance curve (S-N curve) from available static and fatigue data is outlined. The materials are tabulated for easy reference and an example of how the graphs are used is also included.