The spring material will oxidize, corrode or change its molecular structure when exposed to the environment for a long time. For example, an environment with high humidity may accelerate the oxidation process of metal materials, resulting in the formation of a rust layer on the surface of the spring, increasing friction resistance and weakening the elastic modulus. In addition, ultraviolet radiation or contact with chemicals may cause the molecular chain of the material to break, further reducing the restoring force of the spring. Even with plating or anti-corrosion treatment, the coating may still wear out after long-term use, exposing the underlying material, thereby accelerating performance degradation. This material aging phenomenon will directly lead to unstable spring torque output, which will eventually manifest as resistance changes or jamming when the shutter is opened/closed.
The spring will experience a cycle of "elastic limit-yield point-fatigue fracture" during repeated deformation. For the 25MM Spring Blind Components assembly, if the shutter angle is adjusted frequently every day, the spring may reach the fatigue life threshold after tens of thousands of cycles. At this time, the microstructure of the spring will gradually accumulate damage, resulting in a gradual decrease in torque output. For example, a spring with an initial design torque of 2kg may only be able to output a torque of 1.5kg after long-term use, or even fail completely due to partial fracture. In addition, if the user applies a force exceeding the design load, the fatigue process will be significantly accelerated.
The impact of temperature fluctuations on spring materials cannot be ignored. In a high temperature environment, the molecular thermal motion of the spring material intensifies, which may lead to a decrease in the elastic modulus and a temporary decrease in torque output; long-term high temperature may also cause the material annealing effect, permanently changing its mechanical properties. Low temperature environments may make the spring brittle and increase the risk of fracture. For example, the difference in thermal expansion coefficient between the aluminum alloy tube and the spring may cause stress concentration inside the component, further aggravating fatigue damage. If the component does not use high-temperature or low-temperature resistant alloy materials, its torsional stability will be significantly limited to the ambient temperature range of use.
The geometric parameters of the spring directly affect its fatigue resistance. If the number of turns of the 25MM spring is insufficient or the wire diameter is too thin, plastic deformation may occur after long-term use, resulting in irreversible attenuation of torque. In addition, if there are gaps or friction points in the connection structure between the spring and the aluminum tube, local wear will be accelerated. For example, snap-on connections may loosen due to repeated vibrations, resulting in uneven force on the spring; edges that are not chamfered may crack due to stress concentration. Even minor damage can be the starting point for fatigue cracks, which eventually lead to fracture.
To reduce torque attenuation and mechanical fatigue, alloy steel with stronger fatigue resistance or surface nickel plating can be used to improve corrosion resistance and wear resistance. Increase the number of spring coils or wire diameter, optimize the connection method with the aluminum tube (such as using a gapless nesting structure), and reduce stress concentration points. Clearly mark the maximum load and daily opening and closing times to avoid overloading or overuse. Add a heat insulation layer in extreme temperature environments, or use elastic materials with a wider temperature resistance range. It is recommended to check the surface of the spring for cracks or rust every 6-12 months, and apply grease to reduce friction if necessary.