Official Answer
Answer
High-carbon steels like SAE 1070 to 1090 ($HRC 45-52$) are highly susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement during acid pickling or electroplating (Zinc or Cadmium). Atomic hydrogen diffuses into the crystal lattice, accumulating at grain boundaries and dislocations, which reduces the cohesive strength of the metal. For wave springs, this typically results in delayed brittle fracture under static load. To mitigate this, springs must undergo a 'baking' process immediately after plating (within 1-4 hours) at $375^{\circ}F \pm 25^{\circ}F$ ($190^{\circ}C$) for at least 8 to 24 hours, depending on the thickness and hardness. This allows the hydrogen to effuse out of the material.
