New ranges of composite compression springs for 2010

Trademarked LeeP, the springs have been developed in response to customer demand for a combination of the strength of metal with the special attributes of high performance engineered thermoplastics. The springs are manufactured in Ultem polyetherimide (PEI) resin, produced by Sabic Innovative Plastics, and will be available in a variety of formulations. PEI was chosen following years of engineering design and materials research by the company's technical team in the USA. Plastic composite springs offer many advantages including stability of physical and mechanical properties up to 170oC, high strength to weight ratios and excellent corrosion resistance. Additionally they are non-magnetic, offer dielectric insulation, low flammability and are recyclable as well as RoHS and Reach compliant. They will be available in a variety of standard sizes and six colour coded strengths: red, orange, yellow, green, blue and violet, the strongest. Custom design options to meet precise performance requirements will also be offered. As components get smaller so do the size requirements for springs. Lee Spring has responded to the challenge of miniaturisation by introducing the Bantam range Mini compression springs and will soon announce the availability of smaller sized products within its stock spring range. Designed to combine strength with corrosion resistance, the smallest Bantam Mini spring features a wire diameter size of 0.102mm just slightly thicker than a human hair.