FAQ

Frequent asked questions

Spring wire for medical applications

1.Can Bekaert spring wires be heat-treated?

Yes, all our wires can be heat-treated in the spring manufacturing process to achieve the high fatigue performance to guarantee the correct dosing during multiple use and the preservation of the spring strength during the device and drugs lifetime. Additionally, our Bezinal coated wires have improved thermal resistance and can be processed at temperatures of up to 300°C (572°F) without impairing product characteristics.

2.What is the corrosion resistance of Bezinal coated wires?

Bekaert has a range of Bezinal coatings that cover a full range of corrosion requirements. We will help you select the optimum coating composition for your specific applications. For some of our Bezinal products, corrosion resistance up to 1000h can be guaranteed, which is in line with the performance requirements of stainless steel. Unlike stainless steels springs, however, there is no risk for crevice corrosion on Bezinal coated wires. The corrosion performance is described in our product leaflets, available via the download section.

3. How easily can the Bezinal coated springs be cleaned?

Our spring wires for medical application are manufactured in a strictly controlled environment. On request, specific process conditions can be used that enable easy cleaning of contaminants/residues after spring production. During the spring manufacturing process, specific cleaning agents can be used to get to the required cleanliness for medical application.

4. Can pre-coated Bezinal springs be used in devices in direct contact with the drugs or liquids?

No, Bezinal coated spring wires should be used where contact with drugs or liquids is not possible.

5. What is the elastic modulus of steel spring wires?

The theoretical e-modulus of all our steel spring wires is 206 MPa. It is considered to be a constant parameter, though it can be optimized depending on our production process. The final e-modulus can deviate slightly from this value. More information can be shared on request.

6. What is the maximum stress possible in a spring with a steel spring wire?

There is no straightforward answer to this question, as this depends greatly on the spring design, the post-coiling treatments applied, and the expected fatigue and relaxation performance. The Maximal Allowed Shear Stress (N/mm²) is described in EN 13906-1 (for compression springs), EN 13906-2 (for extension springs), EN 13906-3 (for torsion springs). Detailed calculations and modelling on your specific spring design can be provided by the experts at spring manufacturers.

7. Where can I find the product characteristics of Bekaert spring wire?

The product characteristics can be found in the download section. If you want to know more, please contact us with your queries.

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