Prestressing

A process during which internal stresses are induced into a metal part such as wire or cable which have the effect of increasing the apparent elastic limit of the material. It is achieved by subjecting the part to a stress greater than that to which it is subjected under working conditions and higher than the elastic limit of the material. The plastically deformed areas resulting from this stress cause an advantageous redistribution of the stresses within the part. This is an important step in the manufacturing of springs.