Official Answer
Answer
Hydrogen embrittlement occurs in high-strength carbon steels (like SAE 1070-1090) when atomic hydrogen diffuses into the crystal lattice, typically during acid pickling or electroplating. This leads to brittle fracture at stresses well below the yield strength. For wave springs, this often manifests as sudden snapping during the first few cycles of compression. Mitigation involves a 'bake-out' process: parts must be heated to approximately $190^\circ C$ to $220^\circ C$ within 1-4 hours after plating to allow hydrogen to effuse. Using mechanical plating or opting for stainless steel grades like 17-7PH eliminates this risk entirely.
