Selection of Spring Material Using PROMETHEE Method

Like most other fundamental mechanical components which form the basis of many mechanical systems, springs have existed since the Bronze Age for storage or release of energy, absorption or utilization of vibration, relaxation or absorption of impact force and when unloaded, return to the original position or to the original shape. Quality, service requirement, performance as well as durability of springs greatly depend on the quality of materials used and manufacturing processes. So, spring material and its quality can normally be taken into consideration and consequently, material selection plays an important role during designing of a spring for a particular application. Common spring materials include stainless steel, alloy steels, carbon steels, non-ferrous materials and some super-alloys which exist in the market with preparatory designations and nomenclature. Each spring material has diverse compositions, individual properties and also for a particular type of spring, more than one feasible alternative spring materials may be available in the market. To avoid these complex conditions and consequently achieving the optimal spring design, it is exceptionally crucial to select the most suitable material with the desired properties for enhanced durability, low operational and manufacturing cost, and better performance of the spring. This paper considers a list of seven spring material alternatives whose performance is evaluated based on eight selection criteria. An integrated preference ranking organization method for enrichment evaluation (PROMETHEE II) and graphical analysis for interactive assistance (GAIA) technique is applied to solve this spring material selection problem, and a full ranking of the spring material alternatives with suitable graphical displays is presented. Chrome silicon alloy steel (ASTM A 401) is the best spring material, followed by high carbon steel (ASTM A 228) and Inconel 600. Monel K500 is the worst chosen spring material.