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Flat & Formed Springs
Chemical Etching is perfectly suited for the production of flat and formed springs of many geometries.
In fact, the more complex and difficult to manufacture by other methods the more closely aligned with our process they are.
Chemical Etching for Flat Springs
Fotofab’s photochemical etching process excels at producing flat springs that have no burrs on their perimeter. That means we do not create stress-risers on the profile of the part; therefore that part can withstand millions of cycles without a stress fracture.
Chemical etching does not alter the remaining material in any way. There is no heat-effected zone or work hardening, and the part profile mirrors the CAD file in smoothness. There are no striations of any kind.
Beryllium Copper for Flat Springs
Beryllium Copper is a material often specified for etched flat springs for several reasons including:
- It is precipitation hardenable (which means it can be heat treated after bending to make it very springy)
- It is a good electrical conductor.
This metal is a potential hazard to work with because it’s dust is toxic, but we dissolve the metal into a chemical solution that eliminates both the dust and hazard.
We manufacture a large number of Beryllium Copper electrical contacts safely, inexpensively, and quickly.
Available Metals
Explore Metals We Chemically Etch
Here at Fotofab, we provide photochemical machining (chemical etching, acid etching) services for a wide range of metals.
Certifications
Fotofab is committed to quality.
Flat Spring Applications
Fotofab has delivered flat and formed springs for over 30 years.
Chemically etched flat springs work as diaphragm springs used in the fuel systems of airplanes. It is vital that these springs remain failure free to eliminate any catastrophic events.
Flapper valves used in compressors and vacuum pumps are manufactured from some of the hardest stainless steels available. These steels cannot be cut with conventional cutting tools but they can be dissolved with our etchants.
Our flat and formed springs are used anywhere where formed springs are needed. Contact us today for more information on our flat spring etching capabilities.