Non-Metallic Springs in Pneumatic Actuators
Material selection guide for specialized applications
Suitable Non-Metallic Spring Materials
Composite Polymers (Fiberglass-Reinforced Polyester)
Advantages: Lightweight (1/5th steel mass), non-corrosive, electrically insulating
Limitations: Max load 500 N (25mm diameter), softens above 120°C
Elastomers (Nitrile, Silicone)
Advantages: High flexibility, chemical resistance (ozone/UV stable)
Limitations: Degrades after 10⁴ cycles, brittle below -20°C
Ceramic Springs (Zirconia)
Advantages: Corrosion-proof, stable to 500°C
Limitations: Brittle, costs 10× steel
Application Scenarios
Medical Devices
Prevent metal contamination in ventilators and MRI-compatible equipment
Food & Pharmaceutical
FDA-compliant elastomers prevent product contamination
Electronics Manufacturing
Eliminate static discharge in semiconductor tools
Performance Trade-offs
Force: 20-30% less than steel (30mm springs)
Cycle Life: 10⁴-10⁵ cycles vs steel's 10⁶+
Temperature: -40°C to 150°C range
Design Recommendations
Limit deflection to 60% rating to prevent permanent set
Use hermetic sealing for elastomers in humidity
Consider hybrid designs with metal cores
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