[Al Skierkiewicz]

Jim,
Under <R01>
Teams must be very careful when incorporating springs or other items to store energy on their ROBOT by means of part or material deformation. A ROBOT may be rejected at inspection if, in the judgment of the inspector, such items are unsafe

I would suggest that you bring along the specification sheet for the spring you intend to use and have it available during inspection. The inspector will need to compare your use with the sheet. We are just as concerned with overstressing the spring during charge as we are as to what happens in a dry fire. Springs do have a tendency to shatter under conditions beyond what their design intends. Inspectors tend to err on the side of safety in these issues and may involve the UL Safety Advisors much as we did with propellers last year.