ELASTICITY
Elasticity is the mechanical property of a material to recover its original shape and dimensions after the removal of the stress that had deformed it, provided the deformation remains below the elastic limit. In watchmaking, this property is crucial for components whose operation relies on a recurring cycle of deformation and return.
The hairspring (balance spring) is the prime example: alternating between flexion and extension, it undergoes millions of cycles without permanently deforming. The mainspring, the blade suspension of a pendulum, the click and regulator assembly work on the same principle.
Young’s modulus (E) quantifies the stiffness (spring rate) of a material in the elastic regime: the higher it is, the stiffer the material is for a given deformation. The elastic limit determines the lifespan of springs: excessive stress leads to irreversible permanent deformation that compromises the functioning of the calibre.
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