ARTICLES

Smalley “springs” into Space

by Design World Staff
Monday, June 09, 2008



 


Round wire springs are tailor-made for assemblies that require resistance to linear compressing forces, but what happens when your design has limited room? When space is a factor, a Mars lander has the answer.

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The rugged Spacecraft, designed to gather and return data from the planet’s artic poles, incorporates a Crest-to-Crest wave spring from Smalley Steel Ring Company. Compared to coil springs, wave springs reduce spring height by up to 50%, and maintain the same deflection and force requirements. They also contribute to a smaller, lighter assembly. What’s more, Smalley’s edge-wound Wave Springs have a circumferential grain structure that gives exceptional strength and dimensional stability.

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Crest-to-Crest wave springs typically suit assemblies requiring low–medium spring rates or large deflections with low-medium forces, and can be designed for use in harsh environments–on Earth or in Space.

The company stocks Crest-to-Crest wave springs in a variety of loads and deflections. Standard parts come in diameters from 1/4 to 2 in.; however, special designs with diameters from 0.200 to 90 in. are available. The company manufactures and stocks the Wave Springs in carbon and stainless steel, with special alloys on-hand.

Smalley Steel Ring Company 
www.smalley.com

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