Official Answer
Answer
316 Stainless Steel is selected for its superior corrosion resistance (due to 2-3% Molybdenum content) compared to 302/304. However, 316 has a lower work-hardening rate, meaning it requires significantly more cold reduction to reach the same tensile strength required for spring applications. For a wave spring, this means the flat wire must be precisely cold-rolled to a 'Spring Temper' (typically Full Hard or Extra Hard). If the tensile strength is too low, the spring will suffer from excessive relaxation. Engineers must specify a minimum tensile strength (e.g., 185,000 psi) rather than just the alloy grade to ensure the wave spring can support the design load without plastic deformation.
