What is a steel leaf spring?
A leaf spring is a strip-shaped, resilient component that, through its specific geometry and material selection, can absorb, support, or damp axial and radial forces. In its unloaded state, the spring has a curved shape that gradually flattens under load, storing spring energy within the elastically deformed material. Once the load is removed, the leaf spring returns to its original shape, resulting in precise and repeatable spring behaviour.
Steel leaf springs are manufactured from resilient strip or sheet material, such as spring steel C75 or stainless steel 1.4310. By varying the geometry, material thickness, and width, the spring characteristics can be accurately tailored to the intended application. The spring force is determined by the combination of spring length, curvature, thickness-to-width ratio, and the selected material.
Applications of steel leaf springs
Mechanical engineering: In mechanical engineering, steel leaf springs are frequently used as clamping springs, retaining clips and spring elements within dynamic structures. They provide stable preload, shock absorption and controlled movement in machines where precision and durability are required. Think of locking mechanisms, positioning units and vibration-sensitive assemblies. Thanks to their compact construction and robust spring action, steel leaf springs continue to function reliably under varying temperatures, mechanical stress and vibrations.
Defence & aviation: Steel leaf springs are used in defense and aviation precisely where maximum reliability, minimal installation space and low weight are required. They function as a lock in weapon clips, as a vibration damper in avionics and as a return spring in locking mechanisms or couplings. Thanks to their high fatigue resistance and constant resilience, these springs continue to perform under extreme conditions such as temperature changes, impact loads or long-term cyclic stress.
Medical: In medical devices and instrumentation, steel leaf springs offer a combination of precision, reliability and compact installation. They are used in dosing mechanisms, surgical instruments, clip systems, locking mechanisms and ergonomic parts, among others. In applications where consistent spring pressure or controlled recoil is critical, such as injection systems, clamping devices or movable components, stainless steel leaf springs provide durable performance, even during intensive and prolonged use. By using biocompatible materials such as stainless steel 1.4310, the leaf springs can be safely used in medical environments where hygiene, corrosion resistance and precision are vitally important.
Why choose a steel leaf spring?
Steel leaf springs combine strength, flexibility, and reliability in a compact form. Thanks to their robust yet simple design, they are suitable for a wide range of technical applications, including support, damping, retention, and guidance. At De Spiraal, we manufacture leaf springs in virtually any required size and shape, from small and refined designs to large, heavily loaded components.
We work with high-quality steel grades such as stainless steel 1.4310 and C75, selected to meet the functional requirements of your application. If required, alternative spring materials such as phosphor bronze, brass, or special alloys are also available, for example in applications involving electrical, chemical, or thermal loads. By using production techniques such as bending, forming, stamping, and laser cutting, we create custom solutions that integrate seamlessly into your design. Our specialists support you from the design phase onwards to ensure an optimally functioning and durable spring solution.
Benefits of our leaf springs
Great design freedom: Thanks to advanced processes such as laser cutting, bending, forming, and wire EDM, we can produce leaf springs in almost any desired shape, from simple geometries to complex three-dimensional contours.
Compact installation dimensions: Our leaf springs are designed to provide maximum resilience within minimal space, ideal for applications with limited mounting space or where weight and dimensions are critical.
Long lifespan: Each spring is calculated for fatigue resistance and cyclic load. Through the right choice of materials and processing methods, we guarantee reliable operation, even during prolonged and intensive use.
Precision and repeatability: From single pieces to larger series, we ensure consistent quality. The tolerances are carefully monitored so that each leaf spring performs identically within your system.
Fast customization: Thanks to our flexible production and internal engineering department, we can switch quickly, from design to delivery, even for short runs or prototypes with specific requirements.
Order custom steel leaf springs from De Spiral
Are you looking for a reliable steel leaf spring that fits perfectly into your design and technical specifications? At De Spiral, we provide customized solutions that exactly meet your requirements. Whether it's a few pieces or a large series,
Contact us directly at +31 (0) 74 — 291 45 08
Or visit our contact page for a free quote.
