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Our team at European Springs thoroughly enjoys attending the various engineering and manufacturing exhibitions throughout the year. The UK is host to most of the best expos in the world thanks to its position as a leader in global manufacturing with its reliable, high-quality products.

We feel privileged to be able to attend these conventions of like-minded experts in our sector, connect and reconnect with business partners, and explore recent innovations that will potentially improve our processes. Today, we’d like to discuss the selection of exhibitions and conferences we’ll be attending over the next few months.

Why Attend? The Human Side of Manufacturing

With much of the business world transferred to computers, it’s easy for some areas of the business to lose the human touch; this is especially true when conducting a lot of business remotely through email or video calls. When you choose to visit our stand, you will find various members of our expert team ready to engage in stimulating conversations and discuss different aspects of our business in a welcoming, friendly environment.

While we do promote remote working for convenience, we enjoy bringing the human touch back to business with in-person talks where original ideas naturally develop and commercial potential emerges. This also extends to other social opportunities these expos provide, such as networking, informative roundtables, and demos of new products and ideas.

Here is a list of some of the exhibitions where you will find us this year!

The National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition

This popular conference is hosted in Ireland and serves as a pivotal location where industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders can meet and explore the possibilities of the UK’s industry together. Events like this are where incredible technological advancements are revealed to remain competitive in the field and propel the industry forward. Like most of the UK economy, it has been a turbulent time in Irish manufacturing in recent years, but now, with record-breaking growth noted, this year’s exhibition is rumoured to be the site for significantly positive news.

Our team will be available at the National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition to meet at P04 in the venue during its mid-week running period from the 28^thto the 29^th of May. Additionally, we will be returning to Ireland soon with the associated Northern Ireland alternative on September 12^th at stand E13.

Manufacturing Solutions 2024

At Manufacturing Solutions 2024, attendees will find a dynamic environment as the nation’s manufacturing companies meet in Ireland to share their expertise. By visiting us and the other companies attending, you get to engage with leading industry experts, thought leaders, and solution providers who are shaping the future of manufacturing. The main focus of this year’s event is exploring additional methods for automation and sustainability, but the most exciting concept being explored is the adoption of AI within existing industry 4.0-supported processes.

You can find our attending representatives at stand G28m on the one day it’s running, June 12th.

Medical Technology Ireland

The Medical Technology Ireland Expo and Conference takes place at the Galway Racecourse and has a prestigious reputation as Europe’s second-largest medical device show.

This event has a more specific focus than the previous ones mentioned in that it focuses on manufacturing and design for healthcare and medical technology. Whilst the focus is more specific, the attendants are broader, with entrepreneurs, startups, and even academic institutions from across Ireland all converging to discuss ways that medical technology can be improved and patient care increased.

Attendees should expect to engage with leading exhibitors showcasing a diverse array of medical devices, equipment, diagnostics, and services, offering a firsthand glimpse into the future of healthcare delivery. We plan to exhibit our medical stamping manufacturing expertise by presenting our latest innovative processes and their potential applications for medical device designers.

This event’s twin recently took place on March 12^th in Coventry, and we are eager to see the latest developments when exhibiting at this future show. Come talk to our representatives at stand 101 K01 on the 25-26^th of October and discover how we have helped our many successful clients.

Our 2024 Exhibitions: The Perfect Chance to Meet Us in Person

When choosing European Springs, you are choosing a premium quality spring manufacturer that is dedicated to providing your business with the best solutions for your design requirements. Our decades of experience have earned our position as a leading manufacturer of:

Do you want to discuss your business needs with us in person? Or attend demos of innovative products? Come to see us at our 2024 exhibitions! We are eager to meet you, share our work processes, explore valuable opportunities, and discuss how our high-quality components will improve your operations and applications.

If you’d like to reach out to us before these events, please don’t hesitate to contact us today, one of our friendly team members will assist you with any questions you may have.

European Springs, a leading player in spring manufacturing and a proud member of the Lesjöfors Group, a global powerhouse operating nearly 40 spring and pressing manufacturing companies worldwide, is thrilled to announce two significant management changes.

Stuart McSheehy will be stepping up into the role of Sales & Business Development Director for Europe as part of the Lesjöfors Group, promising to utilise his deep industry knowledge and extensive strategic expertise to lead the region’s growth initiatives.

Stuart shared his insights on the direction in which he plans to steer the company’s growth and operations. He said: “I’m excited to step up into my new role as Business Development Director for Continental Europe within the Lesjöfors Group. I’ll be overseeing operations across nine companies, with a key focus of my new role being to build stronger collaboration while maintaining local autonomy across our European operations, focusing on boosting sales and developing a more focused approach to digital marketing.”.

Alongside him, Jason Wilby takes on the responsibilities of Managing Director for European Springs & Pressings, with a committed focus on pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence and elevating customer experiences to new levels.

Discussing his new role, Jason said: “Moving up from a Production manager to Managing Director has been quite a journey and demonstrates how our company values internal growth and efficiency. I’m really excited to tackle this new challenge and can’t wait to lead European Springs & Pressings to even greater heights.”.

Christoffer Hedvall, Regional Lesjöfors Vice President for Europe, expressed strong trust in the new appointments, stating, “We are confident in Stuart’s and Jason’s abilities to lead us to new heights of achievement and welcome them in their new roles.”.

These strategic appointments underscore The Lesjöfors Group’s dedication to its growth ambitions and its commitment to serving its customers with unparalleled excellence. By leveraging advanced technologies and upholding stringent quality standards, the company strives to set a new benchmark in the industry.

Sustainability has become the world’s foremost concern, encompassing every industry and a wide variety of practices. With this heightened attention, global and local businesses alike are seeking innovative solutions to align with eco-consciousness. Here, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, initially designed to streamline operations and boost efficiency, are essential tools for improving sustainability within manufacturing. By using ERPs, manufacturers can easily optimise resource allocation, minimise waste, and reduce their environmental impact.

In this blog, we look into the dynamic relationship between ERPs and sustainability, exploring the areas where these systems make a difference by shaping environmentally friendly practices on factory floors worldwide.

Resource Optimisation and Waste Reduction

The first aspect we want to delve into is how ERP solutions are revolutionising manufacturing processes by optimising resource utilisation and minimising waste. These systems smoothly integrate various aspects of production, from procurement to inventory management, allowing manufacturers to track resource consumption accurately.

Thanks to real-time data analytics provided by ERPs, companies can identify poor or ineffective resource allocation and implement better strategies accordingly. These convenient solutions also facilitate the implementation of lean manufacturing principles, allowing companies to remove their non-value-added activities and, consequentially, additional resource-intensive processes.

A special mention goes to waste reduction by improving inventory management and demand forecasting. By using ERPs to predict demand patterns, manufacturers can adjust production schedules to match actual customer needs, reducing overproduction and subsequent waste. The adoption of just-in-time manufacturing practices, where materials are ordered and received only when needed, leads to substantially reduced inventory stockpiling and waste, which allows the alignment of operational efficiency with environmental sustainability goals.

Supply Chain Transparency and Ethical Sourcing

With consumers becoming increasingly aware of supply chain transparency and ethical material sourcing, manufacturers are prioritising sustainability in procurement, knowing it can improve their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and positively impact their brand reputation. In this context, ERP systems are an excellent solution to achieve this objective; by centralising supplier data, they allow manufacturers to trace raw materials across the entire supply chain, from source to product. This transparency results in building consumer trust through informed decision-making and holding suppliers accountable for ethical and environmental practices.

Additionally, ERPs streamline collaboration between manufacturers and suppliers through real-time information exchange on sustainability metrics. By engaging suppliers in sustainability initiatives, these solutions allow for positive change throughout the supply chain while also identifying risks of unethical practices.

Improved Energy Management and Carbon Footprint Reduction

Energy management and carbon footprint reduction are core aspects of sustainable manufacturing, and ERPs are essential to making these initiatives possible and effortless. For example, integrating energy monitoring systems and Internet of Things (IoT) devices provides instant insights into energy consumption across all stages of production. From here, manufacturers can analyse energy usage patterns to identify areas of inefficiency and then implement targeted strategies to improve energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions. The adoption of these energy-efficient processes and equipment helps companies minimise their environmental impact and, at the same time, run cost-saving operations.

Another advantage ERPs offer is the opportunity to empower companies to participate in carbon trading schemes and offset programs, which results in additional contributions to carbon footprint reduction efforts.

Compliance Monitoring and Regulatory Adherence

Compliance monitoring and regulatory adherence are critical aspects of sustainable manufacturing that guarantee companies run their activity respecting environmental laws and regulations. Here is a breakdown of the main aspects that ERPs improve:

They provide reliable compliance management features, allowing manufacturers to track regulatory requirements and ensure adherence across every step of the production process. By doing so, companies can streamline audits and proactively address any non-compliance issues.
They allow for the implementation of environmental management systems and accreditations, such as ISO 14001, by providing the necessary tools for documentation, monitoring, and reporting.
They enable companies to keep up with evolving regulations and adapt their processes accordingly. Through automated alerts and notifications, ERPs keep manufacturers informed of regulatory changes that may impact their work, allowing for timely adjustments to policies and procedures.

Data-Driven Decision-Making for Sustainable Practices

At European Springs, we are aware that data-driven decision-making lies at the heart of sustainability in manufacturing. It allows companies like ours to identify valuable opportunities for improvement and track progress towards sustainability goals. The wealth of data analytics tools that ERPs provide gives manufacturers the chance to gain helpful insights into various aspects of their activities, from resource utilisation to supply chain performance. By employing advanced analytics methods, companies can:

Identify inefficiencies
Benchmark performance against industry standards
Prioritise areas for intervention
Predict future trends and anticipate potential sustainability challenges

Through performance dashboards and KPI tracking, manufacturers can monitor key sustainability metrics and identify areas where performance falls short of targets. Overall, ERPs promote a culture of accountability and innovation, where sustainability becomes ingrained in day-to-day decision-making processes.

European Springs & Pressings’ Sustainability Statement

At European Springs, our sustainability commitment reflects our ongoing dedication to environmental stewardship and our determination to make a positive difference in the world. As premium spring manufacturers, we want to shape the future of the manufacturing industry and contribute positively to the world around us. From implementing energy-efficient technologies to optimising resources, we constantly make responsible choices that benefit our business and the planet. Our pledge in 2024 and for all the years to come is to reduce carbon emissions, minimise the environmental impact of our operations, and lower our carbon footprint.

If sustainability is a priority for your business and you’re interested in learning more about our initiatives and services, we invite you to reach out to us. Together, we can work towards a greener future for everyone.

Over the last decade, we have witnessed some extraordinary technological progress, with a significant shift towards a future where smart devices powered by the Internet of Things (IoT) dominate uncontested. Smart technology is becoming increasingly central in everything we do, whether it’s personal or professional, and at this point, it is worth digging into it a little deeper to understand both its current place and future evolution. Smart springs are essential enablers of this transformation, with complex sensor technologies integrated into their traditional mechanisms. This process undoubtedly paves the way for a new era of efficiency and adaptability across various industries.

In this blog, we will draw upon our extensive spring knowledge and expertise to understand how smart springs are reshaping the industrial landscape, leading the way towards innovation, and allowing the flawless integration of mechanical reliability with the dynamic capabilities of sensor technologies.

Smart Springs as Single Useful Components in Smart Technologies

Smart springs are innovative mechanical components that combine traditional spring mechanisms with advanced sensor technologies. They symbolise an exceptional fusion of the conventional with the contemporary! These tiny metal coils are no longer limited to their primary mechanical role but are also equipped with the ability to sense and respond to their environment, taking their overall functionality to a whole new level.

With the addition of embedded sensors, these once-static components are undergoing a process that turns them into intelligent and adaptable elements. For instance, the real-time detection of environmental changes by these sensors allows smart springs to communicate vital information promptly, introducing a new range of applications across diverse sectors.

Applications of Sensor Technologies Across Different Sectors

The applications of sensor technologies extend their reach across multiple sectors, allowing for developments and advancements that entirely redefine the capabilities of various industries. This underscores the versatility and potential of sensor technologies when implemented into traditional mechanical systems, revolutionising the way industries deliver their products and services.

Automotive Sector

In the automotive sector, the incorporation of smart springs into advanced suspension systems represents a notable stride towards a more comfortable and secure driving experience. These intelligent springs, equipped with sensors, dynamically adjust to different road conditions, offering a more comfortable journey and contributing to the overall vehicle’s safety.

Manufacturing Sector

In manufacturing, the power of smart springs improves and optimises machinery performance. By employing industrial springs, companies can monitor and analyse real-time data more accurately and effectively, identifying potential malfunctions before they escalate. This facilitates predictive maintenance to minimise downtime and boost productivity.

Aerospace and Defence Sectors

Beyond automotive and manufacturing, the aerospace and defence industry eagerly embraces the benefits of sensor technologies. Here, smart springs are major contributors to improving aircraft functionality by providing a delicate balance between strength and adaptability. The sensors embedded within smart springs enable constant monitoring of structural integrity, guaranteeing the longevity and reliability of all aerospace components.

Frequent Methods to Produce Smart Springs

Some people may think sensor technology in springs is just a passive addition; however, it is the opposite. Such a significant implementation is a dynamic force shaping the future of operations across various industries, as we just saw. This is why the creation of sensor-integrated springs requires a perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship and avant-garde technologies. Let’s take a closer look at the two most common processes to produce sensor-integrated springs.

Integration During Coiling

One frequent method is the integration of sensors during the coiling process. Here, spring manufacturers strategically embed sensors within the spring structure during its formation so that it gets perfectly integrated into its design; it is an extremely precise engineering process that aims to maintain the spring’s functionality while accommodating the sensor’s placement. By flawlessly integrating sensors during the initial manufacturing stages of compression springs, tension springs, or other relevant parameters can efficiently transmit data, increasing performance monitoring and control in diverse applications.

Retrofitting

Another commonly adopted technique is the retrofitting of sensors onto pre-manufactured springs. In this method, springs are initially produced without integrated sensors, which are added later into the existing structure through careful retrofitting processes. This approach allows manufacturers to adapt standard springs for sensor integration to meet specific needs without altering their entire production process. Retrofitting can involve attaching sensors externally or internally, depending on the intended application, guaranteeing secure and durable attachment to prevent sensor displacement or damage during the spring’s life.

Make the Most of Smart Technologies, Choose European Springs

Whether your business operates in automotive and needs sensor-integrated springs to develop responsive suspension systems or requires efficient solutions to reduce machinery downtime in the manufacturing industry, European Springs is here to help.

We take great pride in collaborating closely with our clients to provide them with products that benefit from a tailored approach to deliver premium-quality solutions that address specific challenges, whether in automotive pressings, manufacturing, or aerospace. Browse our online catalogue to find what you are looking for, and do not hesitate to contact us if you want to ask for specific assistance. Our team of experts looks forward to supporting you in bringing to life your projects and contributing to the technology revolution.

Hydroelectric power stations stand tall as marvels of engineering, using the force of flowing water to generate sustainable energy. From dampening vibrations in turbines to enabling precise power regulation in control systems, various springs work together to allow these energy giants to work efficiently, supporting a number of industries in their goal of moving towards a greener future.

But what are the main spring designs used in hydroelectric power stations? And how do they contribute to the functioning of turbines and control systems? Our experts are using our extensive experience in spring manufacturing to answer all your questions in this blog.

Hydroelectric Power Generation, Essential Components, and Springs in Turbines

Before moving on to springs, we need an introduction to hydroelectric power generation. This process focuses on converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into electricity, a modern concept that finds its roots in ancient watermills. The key components of hydroelectric power stations include turbines, generators, and control systems, each essential across the entire energy conversion process.

Turbines, probably the most characteristic visual feature of these systems, are responsible for converting water motion into mechanical energy. Within these turbines, springs are the key players in maintaining operational efficiency, starting with dampening vibrations. As water flows through the turbines, it can create turbulent forces that, if unchecked, may lead to excessive vibrations. Springs here are buffers, absorbing and softening these vibrations, resulting in potential damage prevention to the turbine components.

On top of that, springs extend the overall longevity of turbine components by acting as shock absorbers; as the constant exposure to high-velocity water flow and varying pressures put immense stress on turbine blades and shafts, springs come in to reduce the impact of sudden pressure changes, providing a protective layer for these critical components. Power generation also benefits from such an intervention, remaining reliable and constant.

How Springs Work in Control System Mechanisms

If turbines are the arms, control systems are the brains behind hydroelectric power stations. They take care of several tasks, like regulating the flow of water, monitoring electricity generation, and maintaining the general stability of the system. It’s in various mechanisms within control systems that springs come into play as major elements. For instance, one notable application is the governor mechanism, where springs assist in precise power regulation.

Governors are in charge of controlling the speed of the turbines by adjusting the flow of water. Springs working within this mechanism act as tensioning devices, allowing for fine adjustments in prompt response to changes in electricity demand. This, as we’ll see more in detail below, makes the turbines’ rotational speed steady, optimising energy output and contributing to grid stability.

The Variety of Springs in Hydroelectric Power Plants

Springs in hydroelectric power plants come in various shapes and sizes to meet specific functions and fulfil requirements. Here, we’ll learn how a variety of our spring types play distinctive parts in different mechanisms throughout the plant.

Torsion Springs

Torsion springs are strategically employed in control systems because their unique ability to provide torque proves invaluable for making precise adjustments easy. The controlled application of torque guarantees that the complex mechanisms within the control systems work with accuracy, contributing to the smooth, uninterrupted functioning of the hydroelectric power generation process.

Compression Springs

Compression springs are essential elements commonly found in turbine assemblies. They serve as effective shock absorbers, mitigating the impact of water-induced vibrations. By absorbing and dissipating the energy generated by turbulent water flow, the turbines’ structural integrity remains stable, improving its reliability and longevity.

Tension Springs

Tension springs are used in the governor mechanisms to assist in regulating the speed of the turbines. Their ability to stretch and return to their original state provides the necessary tension for fine adjustments so that the turbines operate at a steady rotational speed and the system can meet fluctuating electricity demands with precision.

European Springs’ Innovations to Meet the Energy Sector Requirements

In the search for cleaner energy to support a more sustainable future, hydroelectric power plants are innovative solutions. At European Springs, as spring manufacturers, we are active contributors to the energy sector’s changes and success. Our advanced machinery, practices, and products are designed to meet the specific requirements of hydroelectric power plants through the production of high-quality springs that never let down our clients and their projects.

Whether it’s designing specialised springs for turbine applications or crafting precision components for control systems, at European Springs, we are the best choice on the market to sustain the efficiency of hydroelectric power stations and prolong their longevity.
Browse our spring catalogue and contact us today to discover how we can help you with your project!

From heavy machinery to aerospace, hydraulic systems, with their complex mechanisms and valve designs, regulate the exact flow of hydraulic fluids effectively, providing extreme and impeccable precision. Behind hydraulic systems’ flawless functioning, there are precision pressings, core components that guarantee these systems solid stability.

As pressing manufacturers with a long and fascinating history working within this industry, we’re exploring our expertise and uncovering what lies behind hydraulic valves, how they work in hydraulic systems, and their importance in flow control, specifically focusing on the precious contribution offered by precision pressings.

Hydraulic Valves and Flow Control Regulation in Various Industries

Let’s start by understanding what hydraulic valves are and what their role is across a variety of sectors. Any industry requiring a hydraulic system and its application, whether in manufacturing, construction, or defence and aerospace, will see hydraulic valves at its core as key players. These systems take advantage of the incompressibility of hydraulic fluids to produce force and motion, and in this scenario, valves are basically gatekeepers regulating the flow of these fluids with absolute precision.

The extraordinary relevance of flow control in hydraulic systems translates into the ability to control the rate and direction of the fluid, particularly in applications where heavy loads, complex movements, or delicate processes are involved. Precise flow control is then critical in several aspects, such as uninterrupted machinery operation, damage prevention, and wear and tear reduction, extending the lifespan of the hydraulic components. On top of this, it’s also worth mentioning how precise flow control improves safety by allowing operators to remain in check when using the equipment, increasing the accuracy with which this is used and reducing risks.

The Tight Connection Between Precision Pressings and Hydraulic Valves

As we briefly mentioned, in hydraulic systems, metal pressings support hydraulic valves in several ways, forming indispensable parts like valve plates, discs, and seats. Pressings need to be carefully designed, shaped, and crafted to exact specifications so they can be a tight fit within the valve assembly. Because of this, tolerance and material selection are essential elements to consider, guaranteeing great durability and consistent functionality under varying conditions.

The role of pressings becomes distinctively clear when it comes to regulating the precise flow of hydraulic fluids. They accurately determine the size and shape of flow passages within the valve, influencing the rate at which fluid can pass through. By controlling the flow, precision pressings allow operators to thoroughly govern the hydraulic system, granting it the necessary flexibility to fit specific tasks and requirements.

Applications where rapid changes in pressure and flow are needed deserve a special mention. In such a scenario, pressings shine as their remarkable ability to maintain tight tolerances and withstand demanding conditions allows hydraulic valves to work flawlessly, providing them with significant power and control.

The Benefits of Using High-Quality Pressings in Hydraulic Systems

The benefits of employing the finest metal pressings in hydraulic valves are considerable and positively impact both the efficiency and stability of hydraulic systems.

When it comes to efficiency, the precision and tight tolerances achieved through their manufacturing process allow flow control within hydraulic valves, minimising energy losses and boosting overall performance. This increase in efficiency not only means improved power transmission but also aids in reducing operational costs by taking advantage of full-force hydraulic power.

As for stability, utilising superior pressings in hydraulic systems translates into reinforcing and boosting it significantly. Durable pressings crafted with extreme care and attention to detail extend the longevity of hydraulic valves, which, in turn, results in minimised downtime due to potential maintenance and repairs. By choosing top-tier pressings, industries that rely heavily on them can contain risks associated with component failure, enabling hydraulic systems’ stability and consistency across diverse applications and sectors.

Creating Premium Precision Pressings at European Springs & Pressings

As a leading UK precision pressings supplier, at European Springs & Pressings, we recognise the central role we cover in providing premium quality pressings worldwide. Over the years, we have refined the art of crafting precision pressings to meet the most exclusive demands of hydraulic systems and the highest expectations of our clients.

Each metal pressing we craft, with its incredible reliability and durability, is a testament to our constant commitment to quality and precision, two values that remain uncompromised from start to finish. As we understand the delicate balance hydraulic valves must strike in their application within complex systems, we carefully create our pressings to perform at their best under any circumstance.

If your plans require our products, whether it’s springs, metal pressings, or bespoke design services, browse our online catalogue and feel free to get in touch with us. We aim to respond promptly to guarantee our clients the best customer experience ever and let their projects take off quickly.

Category: News & Updates