China's precision spring industry developed in the early 21st century along with the upgrading of the manufacturing industry. Some companies initially focused on producing springs for traditional applications such as refrigerator compressors and jacks, later gradually shifting towards the more technically demanding automotive industry.
Around 2010, the industry began to expand into high-value-added areas such as automotive parts. Some companies started developing automotive parts businesses during this period, gradually moving from peripheral products to core areas. Simultaneously, they accumulated technology through establishing R&D teams and collaborating with customers.
In 2021, the industry made progress in key technology areas. Some companies achieved breakthroughs in high-temperature creep technology for nickel-based alloys, developing valve springs with temperature resistance meeting the requirements of aero-engines. In the same year, special vibration damping springs provided for the Tianwen-1 Mars probe were used in the landing process. In 2022, technological breakthroughs were achieved in the niche markets of snap rings and torsion damping springs.
Since 2023, the industry has expanded into broader industrial fields and intelligent manufacturing. The development of vibration damping clamp springs for rail transit and the application of automated spring forming equipment have improved production efficiency.
In June 2024, a national conference on the formulation and revision of spring standards was held. Some companies developed new spring steel materials. In 2025, patents related to the automated production and arrangement of miniature springs were obtained.
