Selecting Spring Materials for Chemical Environments

At Clifford Springs we understand the importance of material choice when it comes to the springs that are going in your valve seals. It’s particularly important when those valves need to maintain integrity in challenging chemical environments.

Stainless Steels

Stainless steel is one of the most common materials used in spring manufacturing, and different grades of steel offer different benefits.

301 / 302 – ideal for moderate temperature and corrosive environments, 302 is a cost-effective steel for a wide range of applications.
316 – excelling in marine and chemical processing industries, this steel is renowned for its superior resistance to chlorides and acids.
17/7PH – perfect for the harsher chemical environments due to its high strength and excellent corrosion resistance.

Exotic Alloys

Exotic alloys can provide more resistance and longevity in specific environments. Whilst more expensive to purchase, this can often be negated by its longer life and lower maintenance / replacement costs.

Monel®: A nickel-copper alloy with exceptional resistance to corrosion and oxidisation, Monel® is a popular choice for marine and chemical applications.
Inconel®: Known for its high temperature strength and corrosion resistance, Inconel® is a preferred for extreme environments.
Hastelloy®: Offering superior corrosion resistance across various aggressive chemicals and temperatures, Hastelloy® is an alloy of choice in pollution control, marine, and oil and gas sectors.
Elgiloy® / Phynox®: Compliant to ISO 15156-3:2015 (NACE), Elgiloy® is resistant to sour gas environments and much less likely to display hydrogen embrittlement. Also known for its mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, perfect for medical and oil and gas applications.

PEEK™

Not everyone will think of including a spring made from “plastic,” but in certain circumstances it can be a superior choice.

PEEK™ is a high-performance polymer offering exceptional chemical resistance and stability at high temperatures, making it ideal for demanding valve applications.

Offering all of these materials at Clifford Springs, we are always happy to talk with customers about your requirements and make recommendations based on the environment where a valve, and spring, will need to be used, as well as all of the other considerations: