Feature

Space: Springs in extreme environments

Springs are integral to many devices, silently providing motion or resistance by storing and releasing energy. From satellite deployment to vibration isolation, Andrew Durdey, Sales & Marketing Director at MSP, delves into the unique challenges and applications of springs in outer space, and how they make possible the exploration of the final frontier.

01/08/2024 10:53:17

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In outer space, springs are essential in various applications, from satellite deployment mechanisms to astronaut tools. The vacuum of space presents unique challenges, such as the need for materials that prevent outgassing – a phenomenon where gases are released from materials in a vacuum, potentially contaminating sensitive equipment.

Temperature fluctuations in space are extreme, ranging from the intense heat of direct sunlight to the freezing cold of the shadowed side of a spacecraft. Springs must endure these temperature extremes without losing functionality. Additionally, the mechanical demands of space operations require springs that can maintain their performance in zero-gravity conditions.

Read the full article in DPA's August 2024 issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.