Spring wire · ASTM A228
Music wire (A228 / EN 10270-1 SH), 2 mm
Also known as: A228, Music wire, EN 10270-1 SH
Overview
High-carbon music wire (ASTM A228 / EN 10270-1 SH) — highest tensile spring wire for small precision springs.
Typical supply: Cold-drawn wire (diameter-dependent strength)
Mechanical Properties
Thermal Properties
Not published for this grade.
Physical Properties
Typical supply: Cold-drawn wire (diameter-dependent strength)
Density near steel (~7850 kg/m³) unless stainless / specialty alloy.
Applications
- Compression and extension springs
- Precision instruments
- High-cycle small springs
Advantages
- High tensile strength for elastic energy storage
- Designed for cyclic loading when properly stressed
- Standard wire grades simplify spring design tables
Limitations
- Not a structural framing material
- Sensitive to surface quality and corrosion pits
- Heat / hydrogen embrittlement risks if processed incorrectly
Standards
- ASTM A228/A228M — Steel wire, music spring quality
- EN 10270-1 — Patenting quality cold drawn wire
Equivalent Materials
Electrical Properties
Chemical Composition
| Element | Min wt% | Max wt% | Typical wt% |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 0.7 | 1 | 0.85 |
| Mn | 0.2 | 0.6 | 0.4 |
| P | — | 0.025 | — |
| S | — | 0.03 | — |
| Si | 0.1 | 0.3 | — |
Typical / limit values for reference selection only — verify against mill certs for certified work.
Machinability
Not intended for machining; form by coiling. Extremely hard as-drawn.
Cost
Low-to-moderate wire cost; strength is diameter-sensitive.
Corrosion
Plain carbon — plate, oil, or use stainless spring wire in corrosive service.
- Dry indoorfair
- Humid / outdoorpoor
For allowance / life screening, open Corrosion Allowance.