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Disc Springs vs NitroSprings
NITROSPRINGS VS DISC SPRING STACKS
What is a disc spring/Belleville washer stack?
Disc springs are conical shaped washers that exert a force when compressed. Disc springs are usually stacked in series; the number and configuration of disc springs determines the force and travel. Disc Springs can be stacked in parallel, series or a combination depending on the specific load and deflection required.
A safer, longer lasting, more compact, and contaminant resistant alternative to a disc spring stack
NitroSprings are a major advancement in spring technology, being a suitable alternative and offering significant advantages to a wide range of industries and applications that disc spring stacks are currently used in.
Advantages of NitroSprings over disc spring/Belleville washer stacks
Force on contact
A disc spring stack requires a pre-load to achieve the required force for the initial movement. Whereas a NitroSpring does not require a preload as the required force is available on contact with the piston rod.
Easy installation
Due to a NitroSpring not requiring a pre-load, the design can be less complex, and the installation process will be safer and easier. NitroSprings can be fixed to an application with a range of standard and custom flanges + connections.
Long deflection
Unlike disc springs which have limited deflection due to the stack needing to have a long overall length in order to achieve a long travel, a NitroSpring can deliver high spring forces over a long deflection whilst remaining in a compact length. In fact, NitroSprings can be manufactured with a travel of up to 2000mm, whilst still easily fitting into applications.
Precision load & length
Disc springs have a high load deviation due to material and friction effects making precise loads challenging to achieve. On the other hand, a NitroSpring has very tight tolerances on the force and dimension as we can control the pressure in the spring to the exact bar pressure, ideal for applications requiring extreme precision.
Contamination resistant
Disc spring stacks can be seriously impacted by contamination, dirt, or debris. The material can build up between the spring washes, resulting in a restriction of movement and an increase in friction and wear.
Metrol’s NitroSprings have a single cylinder construction, meaning contamination in multiple moving parts isn’t an issue. Standard gas springs can be affected by fluids, metallic or mud debris, however NitroSprings are specifically designed to perform at maximum durability within these types of applications.
Corrosion resistant
Standard metal disc springs can suffer with corrosion, reducing life and performance. NitroSprings are designed for the environment they are working in, so whether it is a steel mill or marine, NitroSprings will continue to perform.
Long lifespan
Unlike disc springs, whose washers naturally move against each other during compression, NitroSprings do not suffer from frictional wear. Their design includes high performance seals, combined with specific sealing surface characteristics and special lubrication, to ensure NitroSprings last for millions of cycles.
Constant force monitoring
In many applications, disc spring stacks' force can only be monitored by the performance of the application or the quality of the production. NitroSprings can be fitted with sensors that continuously or periodically measure the force output. With additional features such as low pressure cut off or warnings, and remote bluetooth sensors, providing peace of mind that your application is working perfectly.
Upgrading to a NitroSpring
Replacing your disc spring stack
When replacing your disc springs with a NitroSpring simply complete our NitroSpring enquiry form or provide us with the details of your current disc spring stack. We can then begin with contacting you regarding a drawing, quotation, and lead time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What applications can use a NitroSpring instead of a disc spring?
Whilst a disc spring is typically used in high load applications where space is limited, our NitroSprings can be used in various ways to replace disc springs:
- Construction and mining equipment
- Valves and pumps
- Clutches and breaks
- Power generation
- Clamping systems
- Steel rolling mill stands
- Energy storage systems
- Industrial machinery
What market sectors can NitroSprings be used in as an alternative to disc springs?
- Construction and mining
- Marine, offshore and subsea
- Agricultural machinery
- Rail
- Defence
- Industrial machinery
- Steel industry
How do I replace a disc spring stack with a NitroSpring?
To replace a disk spring stack with a NitroSpring, you can fill out our NitroSpring enquiry form or provide us with the details of your current stack. Our expert team will be able to help you once receiving these details.