When it comes to spring manufacturing, precision, reliability, and functionality are paramount. Springs play a vital role in countless industries, from automotive to aerospace, ensuring smooth operations and optimal performance, so perfecting every detail is crucial.

Different types of springs photographed with a white background

However, creating the perfect spring design that meets specific requirements can be a complex process. This is where prototyping steps in as a crucial tool in spring manufacturing, enabling manufacturers to fine-tune designs, validate performance, and optimise production processes. In this blog, we will delve into the significance of prototyping in spring manufacturing and explore how it contributes to the exceptional craftsmanship offered by European Springs & Pressings.

With our seven decades of expertise and commitment to innovation, we continue to set new standards in the industry, making us a go-to partner for spring solutions across diverse sectors, and our spring prototyping plays a vital role in doing so.

Improved Design

Spring prototyping is crucial in improving the design by offering spring manufacturers a tangible and practical representation of their intended product. It allows our designers and engineers to visualise their ideas, identify potential flaws, and refine the design before moving into full-scale production.

One of the key advantages of spring prototyping is the ability to test and evaluate the performance of the spring in real-world conditions. Manufacturers will subject a prototype to various load conditions, vibrations, and environmental factors to assess its functionality and durability, which helps identify any design flaws, weak points, or areas that require improvement.

In addition, spring prototyping enables manufacturers to make adjustments and fine-tune the design based on feedback and observations from the prototype. They can evaluate factors such as material selection, wire diameter, coil pitch, and the number of active coils to achieve the desired performance characteristics.

Two engineers looking at spring manufacturing on a computer

Cost Savings

When prototyping is introduced, there are significant cost-saving benefits in the spring manufacturing process. By creating a prototype before full-scale production, manufacturers can identify and rectify design flaws and potential issues early on, avoiding costly mistakes and rework later. Prototyping also allows for thorough testing and evaluation of the spring’s performance, ensuring it meets the required specifications and optimises functions. This helps eliminate the need for costly redesigns or modifications in later stages of production.

Spring prototyping also allows manufacturers to optimise material usage and identify potential material substitutes that can save costs without compromising performance. It enables them to experiment with different wire diameters, coil pitches, and other design parameters to find the most cost-effective combination that meets the requested requirements.

Customer Satisfaction

At European Springs, we’re committed to customer satisfaction and will always go above and beyond to ensure our customers get exactly what they need, regardless of how big their order is. Prototyping is a key element of our customer satisfaction guarantee for various reasons.

For example, our manufacturers can provide customers with a tangible representation of the spring design, allowing them to visualise and interact with the product before production, which is especially important for larger orders.

It also gives us a chance to gather valuable feedback from customers regarding the spring’s functionality, aesthetics, and overall performance. This feedback allows for iterative improvements and refinements to address customer concerns or preferences, resulting in a final product that aligns more closely with their needs.

Three springs photographed on white background

Continuous Improvement

Following the above, spring prototyping plays a crucial role in continuous improvement within the manufacturing process. This is because we gather valuable data and insights during this process, contributing to ongoing refinements and enhancements.

Prototyping also gives us the opportunity to identify potential design flaws or areas for improvement early on. This feedback loop enables us to refine the design, addressing any issues or inefficiencies discovered during testing.

Of course, this is crucial regardless of the spring’s intended use, but there are certain sectors where refinement and perfection are non-negotiable. We work with a wide range of industries like this, including the medical sector, which demands the highest quality.

Prototyping at European Springs

At European Springs & Pressings, prototyping is an integral part of our commitment to delivering exceptional spring solutions. Our expertise in prototyping enables us to provide customers with high-quality samples that accurately represent the intended spring design.

Our dedicated and professional team understand the importance of visualising and testing a spring design before full-scale production, ensuring it meets the required specifications and performance standards. Because of this, we utilise advanced prototyping techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to create accurate and reliable samples.

With our in-depth knowledge and experience, European Springs excels at producing prototypes that help customers assess the spring’s functionality, performance, and fit within their application. This collaborative approach ensures that the final product meets technical requirements and meets the customer’s needs and expectations.

For more information about our prototyping processes or to get started on your spring design, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, and a member of our team will be more than happy to assist.

When it comes to spring solutions, manufacturers are faced with a critical decision: should they opt for standard spring elements or bespoke spring design? While standard springs offer convenience and familiarity, bespoke springs provide tailored solutions that precisely meet unique requirements.

Four metal springs with white background

At European Springs, we offer both options for our customers so that you can choose the best solution, but we understand that deciding this can be challenging. So, we’re here to help.

Today, we’re looking into the differences, advantages, and considerations associated with standard spring elements versus bespoke spring design, shedding light on the factors that can guide your decision-making process.

What are Standard Spring Elements?

Standard spring elements refer to pre-designed and readily available springs manufactured in standardised sizes, shapes, and specifications. These springs are produced in large quantities and are commonly used in various applications across multiple industries. Standard springs are typically categorised into different types, such as compression springs, torsion springs, and wire forms, each serving specific purposes.

These off-the-shelf springs are designed to meet commonly encountered requirements in terms of load capacity, deflection, and dimensions. And while they may not be tailored to specific, unique needs, they provide a reliable and widely accepted solution for many applications.

Here at European Springs, we are proud to offer one of Europe’s largest and most diverse ranges of standard spring elements, which can be found in our Spring Catalogue.

Single metal spring with white background

Advantages of Standard Spring Elements

Standard spring elements offer many advantages; let’s take a look:

  • Cost-effectiveness. Standard springs are mass-produced, resulting in lower production costs. They are often more affordable than bespoke spring designs since they don’t require custom tooling or specialised manufacturing processes.
  • Availability and quick turnaround. Standard elements are readily available, allowing for faster procurement. This reduces lead times and ensures a quicker turnaround for projects.
  • Established performance. Standard designs have been extensively tested and proven to meet commonly encountered requirements. They have well-defined load capacities, deflection characteristics, and dimensions, providing reliable and predictable performance.
  • Industry compatibility. Standard springs are designed to meet industry standards and specifications, ensuring compatibility with commonly used equipment and systems. This simplifies the integration of the springs into existing designs or applications.

Disadvantages of Standard Spring Elements

Of course, standard spring elements won’t be the best choice for everyone, and because of this, it’s crucial to explore their disadvantages.

  • Limited customisation. Standard springs are designed to meet general requirements and may not offer the level of customisation needed for specific or unique applications.
  • Design constraints. The predefined sizes, shapes, and configurations can limit design flexibility, especially when integrating the spring into complex or space-constrained systems.
  • Application-specific challenges. Sometimes, the application or environment might present challenges that standard springs cannot adequately address. Specialised requirements, such as high temperatures, corrosive environments, or extreme load conditions, may require bespoke spring designs for optimal performance and longevity.

Three long springs

All About Bespoke Spring Design

Bespoke springs, also known as custom springs, are specifically designed and manufactured to meet unique and individual requirements. Unlike standard springs, which are mass-produced and readily available, bespoke springs are tailor-made to precise specifications and parameters.

As the name suggests, custom springs offer a high degree of customisation, allowing our bespoke spring manufacturers to address specific design considerations, load requirements, environmental factors, or unique applications. The design process for bespoke springs involves close collaboration between our manufacturers and the customer to understand the specific needs and challenges of the project.

Bespoke springs can be designed in terms of dimensions, materials, wire thickness, coil configuration, and other parameters to optimise their performance for a specific application. Whatever you need, our team will go above and beyond to ensure you get it.

Advantages of Bespoke Spring Design

There is a long list of advantages of choosing bespoke springs; let’s explore:

  • Tailored to specific requirements. The number one benefit of bespoke springs is that they are designed and manufactured to meet precise specifications, ensuring they perfectly fit the application’s unique needs.
  • Enhanced performance. By designing a spring specifically for a particular application, bespoke springs can be engineered to provide superior performance characteristics. This includes load capacity, deflection, operating parameters, and environmental resilience.
  • Application-specific design considerations. Bespoke springs can address the application’s specific design considerations or challenges, regardless of the industry they’re being used for.
  • Material selection. Custom springs offer the flexibility to select the most suitable materials and finishes for the application. This allows for tailored solutions considering factors like corrosion resistance, high-temperature resistance, or specialised material properties required for specific industries or environments.

Single dark coloured metal spring with white background

Disadvantages of Bespoke Spring Design

Like with standard spring elements, bespoke springs have disadvantages, too.

  • Higher cost. Custom springs are a premium service and involve specialised design, engineering, and manufacturing processes, which can lead to higher costs compared to standard springs.
  • Longer lead time. The design and manufacturing process for bespoke springs can take longer than acquiring standard springs off the shelf. Custom springs require careful consideration of specifications, engineering drawings, prototyping, and testing, which can extend the lead time before the final product is delivered.
  • Design complexity. Custom springs often involve complex design considerations to meet specific requirements. This complexity can lead to challenges in terms of space constraints, integration with existing systems, or compatibility with other components. It may require additional collaboration and design iterations to achieve the desired result.

However, it’s important to explore your options yourself and make a decision that will give you and your spring application the best chance at serving its purpose perfectly. Our experienced and dedicated spring manufacturers are here to help at every step of the way, from prototypes for bespoke springs to quick responses and delivery time for standard springs. Whatever you need, we’re happy to assist. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch today to discover what we can do for you.

With digital technology revolutionising various sectors, manufacturers are urged to embrace digital transformation to remain competitive and relevant in this increasingly interconnected world.

Digital engineering graphic

Those in the industry face various challenges, ranging from rising production costs and complex supply chains to changing consumer demands and stringent quality standards. Embracing digital technology has the potential to address these challenges effectively and unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation.

Here at European Springs, we recognise the significance of digital technology in transforming the manufacturing landscape. So, today we’ll be delving into why we and others in the sector are being used to upgrade their digital technology and how this benefits individual companies and the wider industry.

Increased Efficiency

The use of digital technology in manufacturing is being urged for many reasons, one being that it has been proven to improve efficiency. For example, automation and robotics systems perform tasks precisely and quickly, reducing errors and increasing productivity. More specifically, robots can perform tasks much faster and more precisely than human workers, resulting in faster production cycles, reduced cycle times, and improved overall efficiency.

In addition, digital tech can help reduce human error, increasing efficiency and productivity. Automation eliminates the risk of human error due to fatigue, distraction, or inconsistencies in performing repetitive tasks. Therefore, by relying on robots for these tasks, manufacturers can ensure consistent quality and minimise costly errors that often lead to reduced efficiency.

Engineer working on a digital factory

Improved Quality Control

Quality control is a crucial aspect of manufacturing, particularly when it comes to custom orders of products, such as our bespoke springs. At European Springs, we take our quality checks incredibly seriously, ensuring our customers get exactly what they need.

Digital technology can be used to aid us in this area. For example, as discussed, automation and robotics help to ensure consistent and precise execution of tasks, reducing variations and errors that can occur with human involvement. This consistency leads to higher product quality and adherence to strict quality standards.

In addition, robots are sometimes equipped with advanced vision systems and sensors that can perform detailed inspections with high accuracy and speed. As a result, they can detect defects, imperfections, or deviations in product quality that may not be easily visible to the human eye. This ensures that only products meeting quality specifications are released, reducing the risk of defective or substandard items reaching customers.

Enhanced Supply Chain Management

Digital technology also plays a pivotal role in enhancing supply chain management in manufacturing, which is yet another reason why manufacturers are being urged to implement it into their businesses; let’s explore why:

  • Real-Time Visibility. Digital technology enables real-time visibility into the supply chain, providing accurate and up-to-date information on inventory levels, production status, and product movements. This visibility helps manufacturers optimise inventory management, identify bottlenecks, and make informed decisions based on real-time data.
  • Demand Forecasting and Planning. Advanced analytics and data-driven insights enable manufacturers to forecast demand more accurately. By analysing historical data, market trends, and customer behaviour, digital technology enhances demand forecasting, allowing for more precise production planning and inventory optimisation. This reduces the risk of stockouts or excess inventory, improving overall supply chain efficiency.
  • Efficient Communication and Collaboration. Digital technology facilitates seamless communication and collaboration among different stakeholders in the supply chain, including suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and customers. Cloud-based platforms, real-time messaging systems, and collaborative software enable quick and effective information sharing, faster decision-making, better coordination, and improved response times to market changes or disruptions.

Engineers working on a laptop

Cost Reduction

Reducing costs is crucial in the manufacturing industry, especially now during the cost-of-living crisis. It’s never been more important for businesses to analyse their finances and find ways to make positive changes. Well, implementing digital technology into your manufacturing business could be the answer. This type of tech allows for predictive maintenance, leveraging real-time data and analytics to anticipate equipment failures or maintenance needs. By identifying potential issues, manufacturers can schedule maintenance activities strategically, preventing costly unplanned downtime and reducing repair costs.

Technology also provides tools and analytics to optimise resource utilisation, including materials, energy, and machinery. So, by monitoring and analysing resource usage, manufacturers can identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, and implement measures to optimise resource allocation, resulting in cost savings.

Here at European Springs, we constantly look for ways to improve our products and processes to help give our clients the best possible service. This includes looking at manufacturing trends, such as the encouragement to implement digital technology, and working out how to fit this into our practices.

We’re keen to offer the best of the best, so we’re interested in whether it’s new automation tech to improve efficiency or quality control software to decrease human error. If you want to stay updated with the latest company updates and learn more about how we’re implementing these systems into our company, please keep an eye on our blog as well as our LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter accounts, where we regularly post updates.

The manufacturing sector is driven by innovation, technological advancements, and skilled professionals, and it’s evident that nurturing a new generation of talent is vital for its continued success. This is where manufacturing apprenticeships come into the picture.

Manufacturing engineers being tutored by a senior team member

At European Springs & Pressings, we understand the significance of apprenticeships in shaping the future of manufacturing. With decades of experience as one of Europe’s leading spring and pressings manufacturers, we have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of apprenticeship programs on individuals and the industry.

So, we’d like to shed light on the critical role manufacturing apprentices play in driving innovation, meeting industry demands, ensuring a sustainable workforce and hopefully encouraging a new generation of spring manufacturers to join this exciting industry.

Addressing the Skills Gap

The skills gap refers to the disparity between the current workforce’s skills and the skills required by modern manufacturing industries. Manufacturing apprenticeships play a crucial role in addressing this skills gap within the sector. This is because, as technology advances and new processes emerge, there is an increasing need for a highly skilled workforce that can adapt to these changes and drive innovation.

For example, apprenticeship schemes provide hands-on, practical training that equips individuals with the skills and knowledge needed in the manufacturing industry. Rather than relying solely on theoretical education, apprentices gain valuable experience by working alongside experienced professionals, operating machinery, and participating in real-world projects. This practical training ensures that apprentices develop the necessary skills to meet the industry’s evolving demands.

Two manufacturing engineers working together on a practical project

In addition, these training programs aren’t limited to entry-level positions and can be used to upskill and reskill existing workers. By offering apprenticeship programs to existing employees, companies can address skill gaps within their own workforce and ensure that their employees remain updated with the latest technologies and processes.

Workforce Development

As mentioned, apprenticeships aren’t limited to those beginning their career in the manufacturing industry but are often used to nurture a skilled and adaptable workforce. This is because these programs allow individuals to gain practical, industry-specific training and experience, enabling them to develop the essential skills needed to excel in the manufacturing sector. By combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction, apprenticeships create a seamless pathway for individuals to acquire the technical competencies, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills necessary for success.

Manufacturing apprenticeships are often favoured over degrees in the same subject because of the practical knowledge and experience trainees get. Of course, this hands-on experience is fantastic for new starters, but it’s also necessary for those already years into their careers, as it reminds them not to fall into bad habits and keeps their knowledge fresh.

Improved Productivity

It may come as a surprise, but manufacturing apprenticeships can actually have a positive impact on workplace productivity in several ways, for example:

  • Skill Development. Apprenticeships focus on providing practical, hands-on training that directly relates to the specific needs of the manufacturing industry. This training enables them to contribute effectively and efficiently to various tasks and projects, enhancing overall productivity.
  • Knowledge Transfer. Apprenticeships promote the transfer of knowledge from experienced professionals to apprentices. As a result, apprentices quickly become proficient in their roles, accelerating the learning curve and improving productivity.
  • Fresh Perspectives and Innovation. Manufacturing apprenticeships often attract young and enthusiastic individuals who bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the workplace. Their exposure to the latest technologies, methodologies, and industry trends during their training allows them to offer unique insights and creative solutions that can help streamline operations and embrace technological advancements.

Senior engineer tutoring a manufacturing engineer

Building Strong Communities

As discussed, there are many benefits of manufacturing apprenticeships, but one of the primary reasons they’re so popular for companies in this sector is because of the strong communities they help to build. Manufacturing apprenticeships play a vital role in building strong communities by fostering economic growth, creating job opportunities, and empowering individuals within the local workforce. These training programs provide valuable pathways for individuals to enter the manufacturing industry, allowing them to develop in-demand skills and secure stable employment. When companies invest in apprenticeships, they contribute to local job creation, stimulating the economy and reducing unemployment rates.

In addition, as apprentices gain practical experience and knowledge, they become valuable assets to the community, both socially and economically. This is because their newly acquired skills benefit the manufacturing sector and extend to related industries, further bolstering the local economy.

Apprenticeships at European Springs

Here at European Springs, we’re committed to helping the wider industry by investing in the younger generation and developing our apprenticeship schemes. We offer a range of apprenticeships that provide valuable training and career opportunities within the manufacturing industry. We have designed these programs carefully, ensuring they equip individuals with the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to excel in various roles within the company.

If you’re interested in working with leading spring manufacturers in this ever-changing industry, we’d love to hear from you. Please take a look at our apprenticeship vacancies and don’t hesitate to get in touch for more information; a member of our team will be more than happy to help.

Someone writing about sustainable solutions for manufacturers

Here at European Springs, we are proud to share our commitment to sustainable solutions and are dedicated to reducing our environmental impact while maintaining high-quality products and services for our customers.

As a leading manufacturer of springs and pressings, we understand the importance of sustainability and reaching net zero goals in our industry and have taken steps to ensure that our operations are as environmentally friendly as possible. So, we will share our Sustainability Statement and discuss how we plan to reduce waste and energy consumption, how we use eco-friendly materials, and the ways in which we support the wider industry. Join us as we explore our sustainable solutions and strive to make a positive impact on the world around us.

Why Does Sustainable Spring Manufacturing Matter?

Sustainable spring manufacturing matters for a variety of reasons. Primarily, our planet is facing numerous environmental challenges, including climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. As spring manufacturers, we can reduce our environmental impact and help protect our planet for future generations by adopting sustainable practices.

Close-up image of a metal spring

As well as helping the planet heal, our sustainability initiatives (such as reducing waste and energy consumption) are helping us and our customers save on costs. Our sustainable manufacturing practices allow us to improve product quality and longevity, reducing the need for replacements. We focus on high-quality, sustainable products, meaning there’s less waste, fewer new materials produced, and more money saved in production costs.

How Do Our Efforts Impact the Wider Industry?

We’re firm believers that the small things make a big difference, which is why we’re always happy to try out new initiatives, no matter how minor they may seem at first. The efforts made by one manufacturing company, such as ourselves, to improve sustainability can positively affect the wider industry in several ways, for example:

  • Sustainable practices often involve reducing waste and optimising production processes, which results in cost savings for the company. These cost savings will then be reinvested into further sustainability initiatives, driving innovation and inspiring other companies in the industry to follow suit.
  • Companies prioritising sustainability can serve as role models for others in the industry. We can inspire other companies to take similar steps and work towards a more sustainable future by publicly sharing our sustainability goals and initiatives.
  • Sustainability initiatives often involve collaborating with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders. By engaging with these groups and sharing knowledge and best practices, companies can work together to develop more sustainable supply chains and practices across the industry.

It’s clear that our efforts as one company can have incredible effects on the wider industry. Because of this, we believe manufacturers should prioritise sustainability, which our Sustainability Statement aims to do; let’s take a closer look at what this is.

Green factory

Our Sustainability Statement

At European Springs and Pressings, we understand our responsibility is to act in an environmentally-conscious manner and assist in protecting the planet for future generations. Our Sustainability Statement is a policy that will help us achieve this goal. It sets out our long-term strategy to:

  • Reduce emissions
  • Offset our carbon footprint
  • Minimise the environmental impact of our operations

When collating our Sustainability Statement, we agreed that the term ‘sustainability’ is heavily focused on environmental issues but covers a much broader area than this. So, to make it easier to digest and simpler for our team to follow, we have broken down what sustainability means to European Springs into four distinct areas:

  • Responsible Business. Ensure that our business partners meet the requirements in Code of Conduct.
  • Responsible Production. Towards low carbon production with energy-efficient processes.
  • Modern Employer. Be an attractive employer where employees are motivated and develop.
  • Transparent Interaction with Stakeholders. Be a connected company through partnership. Team up and move faster.

This will allow us to focus on specific areas without becoming overwhelmed with changes to make and objectives to keep on top of. Within these areas are objectives; for example, we will find creative and sustainable solutions to customer needs to achieve Responsible Production.

This could be within the spring design aspect of our company by suggesting alternative materials and finishes which are more sustainable.

Metal spring close up

Alternatively, it could be within the production of goods by maximising the technology available. We have spent decades testing new technology and perfecting the machines and processes we use at European Springs, so we must ensure that we’re making use of what we have to improve sustainability in our production processes.

What’s Next?

When setting objectives, monitoring their progress is crucial; otherwise, it is wasted time. We understand that implementing sustainable solutions is a slow process, so monitoring our progression as a company is key. The team plans to do this in many ways, such as taking audits on electricity and gas usage and the tonnage of raw materials and completed parts, including all the shipping and delivery information.

We are also encouraging our employees to take simple actions to ensure a more sustainable workplace, such as:

  • Turning off lights when the room is not in use
  • Keeping doors and windows closed when the central heating is in use
  • Reporting broken or damaged machines, light fittings, gas pipes, air lines, or heating to allow for speedy repair
  • Turning off any machines not in use, especially at the end of the working day

Sustainability goals should be a company-wide effort, which means every employee is responsible for contributing.

We’re excited to see the future regarding sustainability improvements within European Springs and the wider industry. To follow our progress, please check out our blog, where we post regularly.

Here at European Springs, we’re lucky enough to work closely with businesses from an extensive range of industries, including the rail sector.

Fast moving train on tracks

The use of springs in the rail industry may not be immediately apparent, but they play a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient rail travel. Springs are used in a variety of ways in this sector, from controlling the movement of train carriages to ensuring that rail tracks stay in place.

So, today we’re exploring the different types of springs used in the rail industry and their applications, highlighting their vital role in rail safety and reliable operations. Whether you are a rail enthusiast or a springs enthusiast, we’re providing a fascinating insight into the use of springs in rail travel and the work we do at European Springs.

Suspension Systems

Springs are an essential component of suspension systems in the rail industry as they ensure passenger comfort and safety by absorbing shocks and vibrations caused by the movement of trains on the tracks.

There are several types of springs used in suspension systems, but of course, the main spring type is a suspension spring. Suspension springs support the weight of the train carriages and passengers and are designed to compress and expand to absorb shocks and vibrations caused by bumps or irregularities in the track.

Springs at the bottom of trains

Railway Signalling

Springs are also used in railway signalling systems, which ensure signals are displayed correctly and reliably. For example, tension springs are used in railway signalling equipment, such as track circuits and relays. These springs guarantee the reliable operation of the signalling equipment. In a track circuit, for example, tension springs are used to maintain tension on the electrical contacts that detect the presence of a train. The contacts need to be firmly in place to ensure they make good electrical contact with the rail, and the tension springs provide the necessary force to achieve this. If the tension is insufficient, the contacts may become loose and cause false readings or unreliable detection of trains.

In relays, tension springs maintain tension on the relay contacts, ensuring they make good electrical contact when activated. The tension springs help ensure that the contacts remain in place even when subjected to vibration or shock, ensuring reliable relay operation.

Pantographs and Current Collectors

Pantographs and current collectors provide electrical power to trains by transferring power from overhead wires to the train’s electric motors and the springs ensure the reliable and efficient collection of this electrical power. For example, contact springs maintain contact between the pantograph and the overhead wire, applying consistent pressure to ensure that the pantograph collects the maximum amount of electrical power possible.

In addition, suspension springs help to support the weight of the pantograph and current collector assembly. By providing the necessary contact pressure and reliably returning to the default position whilst supporting the assembly’s weight, springs help trains operate safely and efficiently, even in adverse weather conditions.

The bottom of a train

Brake Systems

Springs are also commonly used in the brake systems of trains in the railway industry. In this application, springs apply force to the brake shoes or pads, pressing them against the train’s wheels to slow or stop the train. They are also used to return the brake shoes to their resting position after the brakes have been released, ensuring the brake shoes do not drag on the train’s wheels, which could cause excess wear or overheating.

Springs also apply force to the brake shoes or pads when the brakes are activated. So, when air pressure is applied to the brake cylinder, it compresses the brake cylinder springs, forcing the brake shoes or pads against the train’s wheels.

Railroad Maintenance

A variety of railroad maintenance equipment depends on springs to help perform a range of tasks; let’s take a look:

  • Rail anchors. These are devices used to hold the rails in place, designed to resist the lateral and longitudinal forces that act on the rails as trains pass over them. Springs are used in rail anchors to provide the necessary resistance to these forces and to ensure that the rails remain firmly in place.
  • Rail joints. In a railroad track, the rails are joined together using metal plates and bolts. Springs are used in these joints to maintain the proper tension on the bolts, ensuring that they remain securely fastened even as the temperature and other environmental factors change.
  • Track maintenance machines. Many machines maintain railroad tracks, including tampers, ballast regulators, and tie-inserters. Springs are used in these machines to absorb shock and to provide the necessary force for the machines to perform their tasks effectively.

European Springs’ Work with the Rail Industry

As mentioned, we’re lucky in the sense that we get to work closely with people and businesses from a range of fascinating industries, and the rail sector is just one example of this. We have a wide range of products specifically designed to meet the unique demands of this industry, including bespoke springs.

We are committed to delivering the highest standards of quality and reliability in our products and use the latest technologies and manufacturing processes to ensure that our springs and pressings meet the strict requirements of the rail industry.

If you’re involved in this sector and are interested in our products or would like more information about what we do, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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