I'm developing a prototype for a shotgun accessory which utilizes small torsion springs which I make myself. I wind .020" music wire around a 1/8" rod (5 wraps) and then "stress relieve" the springs by cooking them in a kitchen oven for about an hour at 500 degrees F. I've noticed that with springs which I haven't stress relieved the prototype seems to work better. What exactly does cooking the springs do? Does it make them stiffer, softer, should I bother to cook them at all? Whats the downside if I don't cook them? Thanks for any input you can give. John C.
