Relaxation behavior of (cylindrical) helical compression springs

This paper deals with the relaxation behavior of helical compression springs made out of different types of spring steel wire. The starting point of the examinations marks the creep and relaxation behavior of similar preprocessed wires prior to the cold forming under torsional stress. In this context the main influencing factors regarding creep deformations and relaxation losses are discussed and the particular findings contrasted, which allows for transfer factors to be deducted. The mathematical models forming the evaluation basis of the experimental data are based upon the NORTON-BAILEY creep law and utilized to determine creep specific characteristics and identify material constants. Doing so enables the deviation of calculating instructions to estimate the relaxation losses of helical compression springs based on numerous influencing factors. Applying those calculation methods facilitates the deduction of relaxation figures as well as recommendations regarding the manufacturing process in order to achieve springs with favorable relaxation behavior.