Official Answer
Answer
Carbon steel wave springs (SAE 1070-1090) are highly susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement during acid pickling or electroplating processes (e.g., zinc plating). Atomic hydrogen diffuses into the grain boundaries of the high-strength steel, leading to brittle failure under static load below the yield strength. To mitigate this, a strict 'bake-out' procedure must be followed: parts must be baked at 190 C to 220 C for at least 4 to 24 hours within 1 hour of plating. For critical applications, mechanical galvanizing or the use of stainless steel is preferred to eliminate the risk entirely. Failure to properly bake out results in delayed fracture, often occurring hours or days after the spring has been installed and preloaded.
