Material Matters: Choosing the Right Spring Alloy for Extreme Valve Applications

Energising springs are a vital element of sealing success in high-performance valve systems. But when those systems operate in extreme environments, such as corrosive chemicals, high pressures or cryogenic temperatures, choosing the right spring material is as important as the design itself.

At Clifford Springs, we understand that material selection can make or break a product’s performance. That’s why we work closely with clients, and membership associations such as the BVAA and others, providing advice and options on which alloys will stand up to the specific demands of their application.

Different industries pose different challenges. In the chemical processing sector, chloride-induced corrosion can compromise springs made from standard stainless steel. In hydrogen service, embrittlement can lead to premature failure. And in food or medical applications, the need for biocompatibility and regulatory compliance can have an impact on material choices.

We routinely work with a wide range of spring materials, each with distinct advantages. Stainless steels like 302 and 316 offer good general corrosion resistance and cost-effectiveness for less demanding applications. For more extreme conditions, alloys such as Inconel, Hastelloy and Elgiloy provide high strength, thermal stability and exceptional fatigue resistance. In cryogenic and subsea valves, these characteristics are often essential.

We also support non-metallic solutions where required. Our PEEK springs, for instance, are ideal in situations where avoiding metal contact is important or where chemical compatibility with aggressive media is critical.

Selecting the right material is rarely a single-factor decision. It involves balancing load requirements, environmental conditions and regulatory considerations. Our role is to help clients navigate those decisions, using both experience and engineering insight to recommend a material that delivers the necessary performance.

Ultimately, a spring is only as good as the material it’s made from. With the right choice, your seal performs better, lasts longer and requires less maintenance. Whether you’re designing for the hydrogen economy, offshore platforms or cleanroom valves, Clifford Springs can help you get the material right, so you get the valve performance you need.

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