Category: News & Updates

Springs play an important role across various industrial sectors, from aerospace to oil and gas. One key application is in spring-energised seals, which offer a more reliable and durable alternative to traditional elastomer seals. These seals are essential for preventing leaks and contamination, a critical requirement for industrial equipment and machinery that must operate consistently under demanding conditions.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the function of springs in industrial seals, exploring how they work, and the different types of springs used in spring-energised seals. We’ll also discuss common applications and highlight key factors to consider when choosing the right seals for your needs.

At European Springs and Pressings, we proudly support a wide range of industries with high-quality, performance-driven products, from precision compression springs to expertly crafted metal pressings.

What is the Role of Springs in Industrial Seals?

Seals are typically made from elastomer or polyurethane materials, but springs can sometimes be incorporated to enhance their durability and reliability. Spring-energised seals are used when traditional materials fall short of an operation’s requirements or when more robust performance is needed in specific environmental conditions. These seals can also be combined with existing sealing structures to provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.

A spring-energised seal applies consistent pressure between the sealing element and the surface it contacts. This constant pressure ensures a secure, reliable fit, effectively preventing leaks and helping your equipment operate more efficiently for longer.

In many industrial applications, pressure levels can fluctuate, but spring-energised seals are designed to adapt to these variations. Their ability to maintain effectiveness under changing conditions makes them an ideal solution for environments where pressure shifts are common.

Types of Springs Used in Industrial Seals

There is a selection of different spring types that are found in industrial seals. One example is the garter spring, which can be found in oil seals, shaft seals, hydraulic pump seals, washing machine seals, and off-road wheel seals. These springs are made up of a thin wire that is coiled and back-wound on itself. This means that they have a strong resistance to stretching or being pulled apart.

Helical springs, like compression springs, are also found in industrial seals. These springs are designed to compress when force is applied, providing a consistent level of pressure that makes them appropriate for hydraulic seals. Torsion springs work by exerting force when twisted, making them ideal for seals that need rotational movement to generate sealing pressure. Wave springs can help provide consistent pressure in seals where space constraints are a consideration. They occupy a smaller radial space than compression or torsion springs, making them an ideal space-saving choice. Sometimes, multiple springs are used within seals depending on the application requirement, as they can provide a more uniform load at key points of the seal.

Applications of Spring-Energised Seals

Spring-energised seals have uses in a variety of industries, particularly in the oil and gas industry, aerospace, energy, and medical. For instance, in the oil and gas industry, spring-energised seals are found in the valves and manifolds of subsea equipment, in the pumps and compressors of offshore platforms, and in the couplings of transfer systems. The oil and gas industry is a prime example of how material considerations are vital for an application, as these environments experience intense weathering, harsh chemicals, and extreme temperatures.

Hydraulic systems frequently operate at high pressures, and seals are needed to prevent fluid leakages. Springs are integral in maintaining consistent pressure, even when exposed to wear over time. These seals are found in hydraulic cylinders, pumps, and other critical equipment. Rotary shaft seals are used in rotating machinery to prevent leakage of other fluids. Springs in these seals maintain the necessary contact pressure to keep fluid contained, which also protects any nearby components from damage. Wiper seals are used to keep contaminants like dirt or dust out of machinery. The spring in a wiper seal produces a secure barrier against contamination.

Considerations for Industrial Seals

Not every application is suited to utilise spring-energised seals. When determining whether to opt for a traditional polymeric seal or a spring-energised seal, consider the following factors:

• Material: The material used within a seal should be adapted to the environment in which it will operate, and this includes any corrosion-resistant or high temperature considerations. For instance, stainless steel springs are ideal for marine environments or situations where exposure to weathering, harsh chemicals, and extreme temperatures are likely. Materials like Inconel and Elgiloy are alloys that are designed to resist intense temperatures and high corrosion. For instance, Elgiloy can be used in temperatures up to 800°
• Operating Pressure: Spring-energised seals are made for high-pressure environments due to their capabilities in maintaining constant contact pressure, even if this varies. While polymeric seals can handle pressure, they may not be best for situations where pressure fluctuates.
• Longevity & Wear Resistance: Polymeric seals can be prone to wear and degradation over time, especially when exposed to constant or fluctuating pressure, friction, and temperature changes. Spring-energised seals are designed to last longer in harsh conditions, so they might be a more suitable solution for harsh operating conditions.

Spring-energised seals are used in industrial systems, offering substantial benefits like longevity and resistance against harsh conditions. Using various types of springs, these seals provide consistent pressure, adapting to fluctuations, and providing advantages to a wide range of industries. In our blog, we explore all the latest industry news and technical innovations related to springs, so be sure to delve into our other posts. For any questions about our processes or the products we stock, please feel free to get in touch.

The 10^th to the 16^th of February is National Apprenticeship Week, and here at European Springs and Pressings, we are proud to say that many of our team members began their career with us as an apprentice.

To mark the occasion, we’re celebrating the week by taking a closer look at apprenticeships at European Springs, including some stories of past and current apprentices.

Our employees are the backbone of the products and services we deliver, and that’s why we are committed to fostering the growth of the next generation of engineers.

National Apprenticeship Week

National Apprenticeship Week is an event run by partners such as the Department for Education. It helps young people explore potential career opportunities from leading brands. For 2025, the theme of the week is ‘Skills for Life’, focusing on skills that help apprentices prepare for the future and benefit businesses in the long run. Whether developing an existing skill or learning a completely new one, skills are an integral part of any career.

During this week, prospective apprentices, parents, and schools can learn more about what’s on offer in terms of apprenticeships, from live employer events to virtual apprenticeship fairs. If you or someone you know is interested in beginning their journey as an apprentice, this week is the perfect time to do so. To see what’s going on and for more National Apprenticeship Week resources, please visit the National Apprenticeships Week website.

The Benefits of Apprenticeships

The Benefits of Apprenticeships

The engineering industry is always growing and looking for new talent, making it an excellent industry to conduct your apprenticeship in. There are several different advantages to completing an apprenticeship, here are just a few:

• Blend of Learning Styles: When completing an apprenticeship, you’ll be exposed to a variety of different teaching styles. This can be either classroom-based or learning hands-on, which is great for developing your qualifications and getting to grips with practical skills.
• Get Paid for Learning: One of the main incentives for completing an apprenticeship is earning while you’re learning. This pay will be dependent on the work you’re doing, your age, and how far you are along in your training.
• Career Advancement: In general, apprentices complete their training between 1 and 4 years to become fully qualified. Often, apprentices will be offered a full-time role in the organisation they’ve been training with, which can be a great way to progress in your career.
• Mentorship: As an apprentice, you’ll learn from some of the best in the business. Mentors can share their wisdom with you, meaning that you’re learning from individuals who have been in your position before.

Training apprentices not only offers benefits for those training but also for businesses. We have found that it is a much more worthwhile investment to train, upskill, or reskill our team rather than conducting ongoing recruitment. Within the engineering industry, there is always the need for new talent and fresh perspectives, making it an important programme for organisations to provide.

Apprenticeships at European Springs and Pressings

At European Springs, we take on new apprentices each year and have developed an apprenticeship program that provides both qualifications and practical experience. When completing your apprenticeship with European Springs, here’s what day-to-day life can look like:

• Studying: It’s important to know both the physical and theoretical aspects of this job. You may spend a few days a week at college or in-house learning more about the industry and skills with your fellow apprentices.
• Shadowing: We’re lucky to have an experienced team that are experts in their field. You will be taught by different engineers and will have the opportunity to ask questions to expand your learning.
• Supervised Work: As you learn more about our industry and how we work, you’ll get the chance to complete work under the supervision of our team. This will give you the opportunity to try out machines and equipment for yourself with insightful feedback.
• Assessment: Your supervisor will conduct regular check-ins to see how you’re progressing and will assess your knowledge and skills through the form of practical exams and coursework. 

  

Our Apprentices: Past and Present

We are extremely proud of the apprentices who have joined us over the years, here’s a brief look at our past apprentices and where they are now:

Alan Lowing – Alan began his apprenticeship in September 2015 and has since completed his BTEC and NVQ in manufacturing engineering, joining our wire forming department. Alan has been recently promoted to wire technical engineer, where he holds more responsibility as the subject matter expert in the department.

Sami Hamache – Sami started his apprenticeship in July 2022 and has gained his BTEC and NVQs since. Sami works in our production department as a small order spring maker and setter. We are proud to have Sami as part of the team, and he continues to learn new skills and progress in his speciality.

Brandon Smith – Brandon joined as an apprentice in September 2018, completing his BTEC and NVQ and continuing onto our Press Shop in 2019. He worked for two years as a press setter, and his exceptional performance meant he was chosen to join the Toolroom as a trainee toolmaker. Brandon is committed to continual progression and was enrolled in a HNC program in 2023 to develop his skills.

Recently, we’ve also brought three new apprentices onboard at European Springs: Buddy Kempster, Eltayeb Ahmed, and Kyle Singh. We are excited to have these new members as part of the team as they embark on achieving their BTEC and NVQ qualifications and shadowing different members of the company.

As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we remain committed to providing valuable opportunities for apprentices to grow, learn, and succeed. We look forward to continuing our work with the next generation of talent and supporting their journey every step of the way. If you’re ready to take the first step, consider joining our team and making your mark in the engineering world.

The performance and longevity of a spring depend not only on its quality but also on proper maintenance and regular cleaning. Even a high-quality spring will degrade over time without proper care. By implementing the right maintenance practices, you can prevent deformation and ensure that you get the most out of your product.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning and maintaining springs. From essential maintenance tips to a step-by-step cleaning guide, we’ve got you covered.

The Importance of Cleaning and Maintenance

All our springs and pressings are made from high-quality materials using advanced manufacturing processes, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. However, cleaning and regular maintenance are important to keep your springs working excellently once implemented into your application.

Springs endure heavy loads and extreme forces, leading to repeated stress that can cause deformation, especially if overloaded. Additionally, dust, dirt, and grease can accumulate over time, gradually reducing efficiency. Regular cleaning helps prevent these issues and extends the lifespan of your springs.

Moreover, carrying out regular checks and maintenance on your springs helps identify any potential problems before they lead to more significant issues. By catching issues early, necessary repair takes place, and ultimately your mechanism functions as best as possible.

In many industries, like food preparation or healthcare, there are strict regulations in place regarding the hygiene of different components like springs and stampings, so it’s vital for businesses to adhere to these.

How to Maintain Springs

If you want to make sure that your springs are working as they should be and that they will continue to deliver exceptional results, there are certain maintenance practices to keep in place:

• Check the Conditions: Different Spring types and materials are designed for specific environments. Exposure to unsuitable conditions, such as extreme temperatures, moisture, or chemicals, can compromise performance. Stainless steel springs are particularly resistant to harsh environments, so if your spring is made from a less durable material, it may require replacement.
• Regular Inspections: Take the time to regularly inspect your springs for any wear and damage. When performing an inspection, check for any visible wear, corrosion, deformation, or bending in the spring. You may also wish to measure the spring length, diameter, and wire size to make sure the springs are managing the load and their environment correctly.
• Load Testing: Springs must withstand their designated load to prevent deformation or failure. Regularly check that they are not being overloaded and that they comply with the manufacturer’s specifications to maintain reliability and longevity.
• Documenting Maintenance: Maintain a record of all inspections, repairs, and replacements. Consistent documentation helps track wear over time, identify recurring issues, and determine when a spring needs replacing.

These are just a few maintenance procedures to implement to ensure that your springs are working as they should be. Introducing these practices should help to identify how regular inspections and cleaning need to be taking place, such as daily, weekly, or monthly.

How to Clean Your Springs

Part of the maintenance procedure must include regular and thorough spring cleaning. However, springs can often be small components with complex structures, so having the correct steps to clean them is vital. Here is a brief tutorial for cleaning your springs:

1. Using a small brush, gently remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the spring, ensuring that you get into all the coils and grooves.
2. Start to wash the springs with a bucket of soap and water and pay close attention to the coils and hard-to-reach areas.
3. Rinse the spring thoroughly to remove any remaining soap and dry the spring using a microfibre cloth. Make sure that the spring is fully dry before finishing, as any remaining liquid has the potential to cause rusting.
4. If desired, lightly lubricate the spring using an approved spring lubricant. Be sure not to over-lubricate, as too much oil can cause buildup on the spring.

When cleaning, avoid using harsh chemicals and handle them gently so that they don’t experience any wear during the cleaning process.

Cleaning and maintaining high-performance springs is crucial for their longevity and efficiency. By conducting regular inspections, cleaning, and adhering to proper maintenance practices, you ensure that springs and pressings perform as they should, preventing costly repairs later on. It’s also important to select a springs manufacturer that uses high-quality materials and manufacturing, to reduce the chance of deformation and spring failure. To learn more about how we make our springs, please get in touch.

At European Springs and Pressings, we are dedicated not only to delivering high-quality products but also to ensuring they are manufactured ethically and sustainably. We hold ourselves to the highest of standards, ensuring our manufacturing processes are free from exploitation, harmful labour practices, and unethical conduct.

Read on to discover more about our commitment to ethical manufacturing and the steps we take to uphold our modern slavery statement.

What is Ethical Manufacturing?

Ethical manufacturing is an approach to manufacturing processes that prioritise health and wellbeing within all those involved. It focusses on fairness, sustainability, and an overall respect for human rights. This applies to all aspects of our business, from initial designs to end products, we want to ensure that we are operating in the best interest of our staff.

We believe that ethical manufacturing not only enhances the wellbeing of our employees but also supports the long-term success of our business. A positive work environment means greater productivity and encourages employees to remain with the company for the long term. By investing in our staff and their wellbeing, we ensure the delivery of high-quality results, created with the utmost ethical care.

The Importance of the Modern Slavery Statement

A modern slavery statement is a legal requirement for businesses that meet certain size criteria in the UK, and it’s for organisations to show that they are taking active steps to eliminate modern slavery within their operations and supply chains. The UK Modern Slavery Act of 2015 requires businesses with an annual turnover of 36 million or more to publish an annual statement that outlines the steps they are taking to address slavery and human trafficking within their business operations.

Modern slavery is a serious issue that currently affects almost 50 million people worldwide. Anti-Slavery International defines modern slavery as when an individual is exploited by others, for personal or commercial gain. The modern slavery statement is a clear declaration of the steps we take to both identify and prevent slavery and forced labour. It moreover allows us to continually improve our manufacturing processes, to ensure all of our suppliers and partners adhere to ethical practices.

How We Comply with the UK Modern Slavery Act

We implement proactive measures within our business or supply chain to make sure that modern slavery does not exist at any stage of our operations. We are continuously improving and reviewing our practices to ensure complete compliance, and we take this matter incredibly seriously. Here are some of the measures we have introduced:

• We have a rigorous due diligence process in place to monitor our suppliers and business partners to ensure that they are complying with modern slavery regulations, and that they are carrying out due diligence within their own supply chains.
• Our suppliers are required to confirm that their employees are given good working conditions, treated fairly, and are paid in accordance with national minimums.
• We also require confirmation from our suppliers that all employees are voluntarily in employment, that employers do not keep original copies of identity documents, and that employees are free to leave work as they wish.
• Our modern slavery statement is updated annually, and we encourage open communication regarding any potential risks or issues within our supply chain. This means we provide clear channels for our employees, suppliers, and partners to raise any issues confidentially.
• We provide regular staff training on recognising the signs of modern slavery and make sure that they are fully briefed on how to report concerns.

The Made in Britain certification is a symbol of trust, and it assures customers that our products are manufactured responsibly, with the highest regard for ethical labour practices. We ensure that our supply chain is traceable and accountable, which allows us to track any risks of unethical practices, including that of modern slavery.

At European Springs, we are committed to bringing you high quality products, that are manufactured ethically and sustainably. We take continuous measures to uphold and update our modern slavery statement where necessary, so that you can be sure your products are made in the most ethical way possible, and do not originate from processes that engage forced labour. You can read our full modern slavery statement here should you require further information.

Springs play a crucial role across a wide range of industries, from supporting intricate mechanisms to powering heavy machinery. Perhaps one of their most critical uses is within safety-sensitive applications, where their performance directly impacts security and reliability. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare depend heavily on springs to ensure the safety and functionality of their systems, making these components indispensable.

In this blog, we’ll explore the vital role springs play in safety-critical applications across various sectors. In these applications, the failure of a spring can lead to disastrous consequences, so it’s crucial that these springs are made with precision and durability. As specialists in manufacturing high-quality, dependable springs, we have extensive experience collaborating with industries like those mentioned in this blog to deliver outstanding results tailored to their needs.

What are Safety-Critical Applications?

Before we explore the details of how springs contribute to safety-critical applications, we first need to understand what qualifies as a safety-critical application. These applications are systems or devices where, if they were to fail, significant harm or damage could occur. This includes industries where human safety is at risk, where equipment failure could harm the environment, or other instances including loss of life.

In these settings, every component must perform consistently under demanding conditions, including springs. This makes the design and construction of the spring evermore important due to the drastic potential consequences if failure were to occur.

Aerospace

In the aerospace sector, springs play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and functionality of an aircraft. When operating machinery thousands of feet in the air, there are a number of safety-critical applications in which springs are utilised. For example, aircraft landing gear uses suspension springs to absorb and distribute any impact force as the plane lands, giving the aircraft a smooth landing process.

In addition to their presence in areas like seatbacks and onboard ovens, springs can be found in the overhead lockers and aircraft doors. Without springs, these aspects of an aircraft could be incredibly dangerous. Locker doors need to be secure and equipped with soft-opening capabilities in order to keep any heavy luggage confined to avoid falling on passengers. Similarly, aircraft doors are a crucial safety feature on any plane, as they not only need to be securely fastened during every flight, but they must also be capable of opening in an emergency. Aerospace components are exposed to extreme temperatures, pressures, and vibrations, so springs in these applications need to be able to withstand these conditions.

Healthcare

In the world of health and medicine, springs are used in a variety of ways, including in medical devices. The reliability of these devices can mean the difference between life and death, and therefore these springs need to be created using the highest standards of precision and durability.

A key example of a medical device reliant on springs is the ventilator. These devices are found in hospitals everywhere, and they use a number of different springs to operate safely. For instance, tension springs are utilised in valve mechanisms, creating tension that regulates the opening and closing of valves, which ultimately controls the flow of air to and from the patient. Equally, compression springs are used to control the pressure of delivered air, which is a crucial feature in addressing a patient’s respiratory needs.

Additionally, springs can be found in pacemakers, where they’re used to secure the miniature electric leads in place, which send charges to the heart. Our expertise in designing and manufacturing springs for medical devices ensures that every product meets regulatory requirements and supports the well-being of patients worldwide.

Automotive

Springs in the automotive industry serve a range of safety functions that help to protect passengers during a collision or prevent loss of control whilst on the road. The most common form of spring in the automotive sector is suspension springs which form an integral part of the car’s suspension system, helping to dissipate vibration and absorb bumps whilst on the road. These springs help to vertically support a vehicle’s weight for even distribution, which is essential for allowing the car to turn corners without excessive body roll.

Similarly, leaf springs have been used for decades in the manufacture of vehicles, particularly within those designed to carry heavy cargo like lorries or vans. They are used in the rear suspension system, and help to maintain stability on uneven road surfaces. From design support to rigorous testing, we ensure that our springs contribute to the reliability and durability of automotive systems.

In industries where safety is a priority, the role of springs cannot be overemphasised. From aerospace to medicine, springs are essential to the processes of countless safety-critical applications. Here at European Springs and Pressings, we have extensive experience in designing and manufacturing springs that meet the highest safety and durability standards. If you’re looking to develop a spring solution for a safety-critical application, please contact us today to learn how we can help with your project.

Melinex is a durable, heat-resistant material widely used in bespoke pressings and stampings across various industries. Its reliability and versatility make it a popular choice for a number of different applications, such as an insulating material, or for packaging and labelling.

In this blog, we’ll explore what Melinex is, how it’s used, and why we think it’s ideal for precision tooling and pressing.

What is Melinex Film?

Melinex is a biaxially oriented specialty polyester film developed by Mylar® Specialty Films (formerly DuPont Teijin Films™). Available in a variety of types—such as super clear, slightly hazy, hazy, translucent matte, opaque white, and heat-stabilised—Melinex can be tailored to suit the users’ specific needs. Its general appearance is clear and glossy, but this varies depending on the chosen finish.

Melinex films are flexible and high-quality, with an excellent resistance to heat. Polyester films such as these are frequently used in the automotive, electronic, medical, and electrical industries. Whilst Melinex can be used for pressings and stampings, this material is also used in labels, die-cut parts, packaging, and insulation. It is a versatile and reliable material that offers some superior benefits to other plastic films.

What are the Benefits of Using Melinex Film?

There are many reasons why our customers choose to use Melinex Film in the manufacturing of their bespoke stamping or pressing. Here are a few reasons why Melinex stands out as an excellent material choice:

Reduces Wear on Tools

Melinex is known for its ability to reduce wear on tooling equipment. It is a very durable material, meaning that your stampings and pressings stay in a pristine condition for longer. This reduces the need for regular replacement or maintenance, helping to save costs in the long term.

Supports Efficiency in Manufacturing Setups

Melinex has excellent dimensional stability, meaning that it maintains its size and shape under a variety of conditions. This allows for smoother manufacturing setups, as it is easier to handle and process the material. Melinex is also very flexible, which can furthermore assist in the manufacturing process. Its flexibility causes quicker setup times, reducing cycle times and increasing overall efficiency.

Tool Designs that Need Tight Tolerances

When we’re crafting precision tooling, materials that are able to maintain tight tolerances provide benefits to the overall manufacturing process. When using Melinex in pressing and stamping applications, we’re able to produce components accurately, so that the final product meets your expectations and specifications. This is especially important in areas such as the electronic and automotive industries, where even the slightest dimensional variation can cause severe functionality issues.

Heat Resistance

Melinex is renowned for its heat resistance, making it an ideal material to be used in pressings and stampings that are exposed to high temperatures. Melinex can operate at a temperature range from -70°C up to 150°C, and special variations of the film can be made to be especially heat-optimised. This wide operational temperature range means that Melinex has a wide application range, and may be the suitable choice where other materials might distort or break down.

Uses of Melinex Film

In addition to its use in stampings and pressings, Melinex film has a wide range of uses across different applications because of its versatile and durable properties. Here are some of the main industries that utilise Melinex Film:

• Automotive: The automotive industry has a high number of uses for Melinex, especially in areas where high heat resistance is needed. It’s commonly found in components like insulation, seals, and gaskets.
• Packaging: Melinex is frequently used in clear packaging, particularly within the food and beverage industry due to some of its variations being compliant with food safety regulations. Its flexibility allows it to be produced in specific shapes, protecting items without releasing any harmful chemicals.
• Signage and Display: Due to its high performance and anti-shrinking capabilities, Melinex is found in several signage and display applications. This applies to outdoor signage also, due to its ability to withstand different temperatures and environmental conditions.
• Electronics: Melinex is used in electronics for its ability to insulate and protect certain electronic components. It is found in circuits and printed electronics due to its capability in holding its original form and chemical makeup, even when it’s exposed to wiring or heat-producing components. This is especially important because it can alleviate concerns about melting, releasing fumes, or toxic materials

Melinex in Precision Tooling and Pressing Applications

At European Springs and Pressings, we offer Melinex as a material for our pressings and stampings, in addition to other high-quality materials like metal strips, carbon and stainless steels, and superalloy. Melinex offers a selection of benefits including flexibility, heat-resistance, and durability, making it suitable for a number of applications and industries. To learn more about our bespoke stampings and pressings and the materials we utilise, get in touch to speak with a member of our expert team.