Official Answer
Answer
Springs with a high $L_0/D$ ratio (typically $> 1.5$) are prone to buckling during installation and operation. When compressed, the spring acts like a slender column. If not properly constrained by a bore or guided by a pilot (shaft), the spring will bow laterally, leading to non-axial loading and catastrophic failure of the waves. The critical buckling load is defined by $P_{crit} = π^2 \cdot E \cdot I / (K \cdot L)^2$. To prevent this, a housing bore should be used with a clearance of approximately 0.05mm to 0.15mm per side. Additionally, if the spring is used in a dynamic system, the guiding surface must be hardened to prevent the 'snaking' spring from wearing into the housing.
