The Magic Behind Designing a Spring for Energised Seals, Valves, and Actuators

Behind every high-performance spring-energised seal, valve, or actuator lies a precise balancing act between design, material selection, and application requirements. The right spring doesn’t just fit, it enhances performance, improves longevity, and ensures reliability in critical systems. 

At Clifford Springs, we collaborate with designers and engineers, helping navigate the key factors that determine how a spring performs, making sure they get the best possible design for their application. Here’s what you need to consider. 

Space – How Much Room is Available?

The design footprint dictates everything. A compact space demands a spring that delivers the right force without compromising on function. Whether working with helical, garter, or canted coil springs, the available volume will impact wire diameter, coil geometry, and material choices. 

Working Loads & Positions

What loads will the spring need to handle, and at what points in its cycle? The forces exerted on the spring affect both its elasticity and fatigue life. Too much load, and there’s a risk premature failure. Too little, and the effectiveness of the seal, valve, or actuator may be compromised. 

Operation – Static or Dynamic?

A spring operating below 10,000 cycles is considered static, while anything beyond that is dynamic. Dynamic applications demand materials and designs that can withstand repeated compression, tension, or torsion without losing integrity. Choosing the wrong type could mean early relaxation, higher maintenance costs, or system inefficiencies. 

Environmental Considerations

From cryogenic lows to extreme heat, springs in sealing applications must endure thermal expansion, contraction, and material fatigue without compromising performance. Exposure to corrosive chemicals, saltwater, or aggressive industrial fluids influences material selection, whether stainless steels or exotic alloys. Magnetically sensitive environments may require non-ferrous materials, while electrically conductive or insulating requirements call for specialist coatings or alternative alloys. Understanding these factors ensures reliable spring performance even in the toughest conditions. 

Surface Condition – More Than Just Looks

Does the spring need to be solderable, adhesive-compatible, or cosmetically flawless? Surface treatments such as passivation, coating, or polishing can be the difference between success and failure in demanding applications. 

Getting It Right – First Time

At Clifford Springs, we can work with engineers from the earliest stages of design to help ensure the right spring type, material, surface treatment, and cost efficiency. With decades of expertise in spring-energised seals, valves, and actuators, we help ensure that your component delivers the right performance.  Every time. 

Got a project in mind? Let’s talk about how we can help.

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