Category: News & Updates

Every year at European Springs, we invest in the future of our company and the wider sector to meet the evolving demands of the manufacturing industry. This means more than investing in the latest equipment and processes; we invest in the most valuable resource available: engineering apprentices. Through our excellent apprenticeship program, we support the next generation of engineers as they start their profitable careers and help to ensure the future of our industry and European Springs long-term.

Our Latest Apprentices

This year, we welcome on board three new apprentices:

• Louis Taylor (age 16)
• Ashlei-Rae Campbell (age 16)
• Malachi Payne (age 21).

All three of these eager apprentices will undertake a BTEC level 2 in Manufacturing Engineering at North Kent College in Gravesend. Having joined the European Springs & Pressings team, they have begun the training that will enable them to become qualified spring makers and engineers within a spring manufacturer facility. During the first two years of employment, all three will circulate through all business areas to gain experience and understanding of the business and manufacturing technologies.

Our apprentices have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology, honing their skills in areas such as CAD design, CNC machining, and advanced manufacturing processes. This hands-on experience enhances their employability and equips them with industry-specific knowledge that sets them apart.

Managing Director Stuart McSheehy started his career in our industry as an engineering apprentice. He believes in engaging and developing the young minds of today, developing robust long-term succession and skills into the future. Often, we talk about sustainable manufacturing solutions being at the forefront of our thinking, but this means more than a green approach to manufacturing. It means ensuring a sustainable industry workforce built with dedicated STEM apprentices like these three latest students. Developing our human capital and skills is another step towards ensuring European Springs leads the industry towards sustainable skills development and growth.

EngineeringUK Supporting STEM Apprenticeships

Manufacturing apprentices are critical for our industry, and fortunately, with the increasing support of various organisations, now is a great time to explore a future as an engineering apprentice.

The recently announced five-point plan to increase support for engineering and technology apprenticeships is a welcomed development in the UK. The plan, launched by former Labour and Conservative ministers Lord Knight and Lord Willetts, and backed by the non-profit organisation EngineeringUK, aims to address the decline in apprenticeships in the engineering and technology fields over recent years.

Five-Point Plan Targets

Based on insights gathered from businesses, education providers, and young people, the five-point plan contains key policy recommendations for all political parties to consider.

Rebalance Education Regarding STEM

The first recommendation is to rebalance education, ensuring that the secondary school system, including technical pathways, is fit for the future. This is an important policy, as it will help provide students with a solid foundation in engineering education, ensuring they are better prepared to pursue high-level apprenticeships in the engineering sector.

Support Diversity Amongst Students

The second recommendation is to support young people in finding apprenticeships and breaking down barriers. This policy is important because it will help to ensure that young people from diverse backgrounds have access to opportunities in the engineering sector.

Refocus Funding for Engineering

The third recommendation is to refocus funding, enabling employers to provide more in-depth apprenticeships in the engineering sector. This is good news for businesses looking to nurture young talent, as it will provide funding to support apprenticeship schemes, ensuring that more young people have access to high-quality engineering apprenticeships.

Encourage SMEs to Take On Apprentices

The fourth recommendation is to enable more Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to play an active role in apprenticeships. This is significant as it will open up new opportunities for smaller businesses to participate in the apprenticeship scheme, thereby making apprenticeships more accessible to more young people.

Employer-Developed Apprenticeship Programs

The fifth recommendation is to encourage employers to grow and sustain their apprenticeship schemes for the future. This policy is particularly beneficial as it emphasises the need for businesses to have sustainable apprenticeship schemes that can benefit both businesses and the wider industry in the long run. We can personally vouch for the success of this final recommendation, as it is an area we have already been pursuing for years.

European Springs Supporting STEM Apprentices

Through our apprenticeship program, we are investing in the future of compression spring manufacturers like ourselves. We are nurturing talent and building a strong foundation for the manufacturing industry. Our apprenticeship opportunities combine hands-on training, career progression opportunities, and the chance to contribute to STEM innovation.

With our supportive apprenticeships, we continue to address the skills gap issue, ensuring that the sector has the skills and talent it needs and securing the future of manufacturing as a whole. By providing young people with access to high-quality apprenticeships, we look forward to a future where more young people are contributing to the success of the engineering sector. Contact us today to see if we can help you start your profitable career in engineering.

Staying connected to the latest manufacturing news, industry trends, and upcoming initiatives is crucial for everyone involved in the sector. Whether you’re a manufacturing business owner, you’ve just started an apprenticeship, or you’re connected to the industry in another way, staying informed is important. This has been especially vital in recent years as the sector has digitally transformed, shifted due to the pandemic, and made waves toward net-zero.

So, at European Springs, we’re here to help. Today, we’re providing a round-up of the latest manufacturing industry developments. From supply chain news to the sector’s downturn, here you’ll find everything you need to know to stay connected.

Rail-Guided Vehicles (RGVs) in EV Battery Manufacturing

A Chinese vehicle manufacturer recently invested in upgrading its battery pack production operations by using rail-guarded vehicles (RGV) trolleys to automate battery cell handling. Although using RGVs in EV battery manufacturing can improve efficiency and productivity, the company found that it also comes with a long list of issues.

For example, the high-density layout of production lines and the presence of steel structures and high-powered electrical devices created significant electromagnetic interference. This meant it required a robust Wi-Fi network to ensure reliable communication between the scheduling system, RGV control system, and handheld tablets.

While the technology is there, this example highlighted that there’s still a lot of work to be done regarding the physical infrastructure before this can be considered for industry standard.

An Update on the Industry’s Downturn

The UK manufacturing industry continues to experience a downturn as output and new orders show some of the steepest contraction rates since the global financial crisis of 2008-2009 or the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the latest IHS Markit/CIPS UK Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), August’s figure of 43 is the lowest since May 2020. The economic background was weakened by a range of factors, including:

• Rising interest rates
• The cost-of-living crisis
• Export losses
• Market outlook concerns

As a result, manufacturing production volumes dropped for the sixth consecutive month, with staffing levels declining for the eleventh. Although input costs are now declining, policymakers’ concern about the economy’s health is growing, with the sector remaining in contraction.

These challenges highlight the need for manufacturers to implement proactive strategies, and as spring manufacturers, we’re committed to facing these challenges. This means remaining proactive and adaptable in navigating these challenging market conditions. By staying informed about industry trends, seeking innovative solutions, and maintaining production efficiency, manufacturers like ourselves can mitigate the impact of external factors and position themselves for future growth and success.

How Is On-Demand Manufacturing Impacting UK Supply Chains?

The rise of on-demand manufacturing is a significant development transforming UK supply chains in the manufacturing industry. In recent years, disruptions in the UK supply chain have posed numerous challenges, specifically in sourcing components. On-demand manufacturing is a game changer, leveraging cloud-enabled systems and a network-based model to allow engineers to upload models, receive design-for-manufacturing feedback, and get instant quotes from a network of trusted suppliers, saving time and increasing efficiency.

This approach offers many benefits, including supporting local and global manufacturers, thus boosting innovation across the engineering industry. It also enables customisation, making manufacturing accessible to corporations and individuals alike.

Overall, on-demand manufacturing is transforming the industry by revolutionising crucial supply chains, increasing efficiency, and making manufacturing more accessible, which is exactly what the sector needs to continue to thrive.

Net-Zero: Will We See Success?

Achieving a net-zero carbon emissions target is crucial for a sustainable future, and we’ve committed to playing a leading role in this global effort by establishing our sustainable solutions. In recent news, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has called for economies to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050 or, at the very least, halve emissions by 2030. The manufacturing industry, responsible for a significant portion of global emissions, holds immense potential in reaching this target.

To ensure success on the path to net-zero, taking action on sustainability is essential. Even small actions can have a positive impact and drive innovation. At European Springs, our roadmap to net-zero incorporates various key aspects, such as:

• Sustainable and greener product design
• Improving production line efficiency
• Addressing workforce requirements and skills

By following this roadmap, manufacturers like ourselves can contribute substantially to a more sustainable future while gaining a competitive advantage.

Why Should I Stay Connected to the Manufacturing Industry’s Latest News?

Remaining connected to the latest news in the manufacturing industry is critical for professionals seeking to stay informed and competitive. However, it’s also crucial for those just getting started in the industry, such as those on apprenticeship schemes. Here are some compelling reasons why you should stay engaged with the latest industry developments no matter what stage your career is at:

• Stay up-to-date on the latest innovations and technological advancements as they rapidly change in this digital landscape.
• Identify new opportunities to improve manufacturing processes and increase efficiency within your business.
• Gain insight into global market trends and regulatory changes that could impact your business.
• Keep track of industry awards and recognitions, which can inform decisions regarding suppliers or partners.
• Access expert opinions and commentary from industry thought leaders on key industry topics and challenges.
• Network and connect with other professionals in the field through industry events and publications.
• Ensure that your organisation remains competitive and agile in a rapidly evolving industry.

As mentioned, at European Springs, we pride ourselves on staying in tune with the latest industry developments and using our expertise to deliver cutting-edge product solutions to our customers. You can stay connected to the latest news by checking out our blog.

In the manufacturing industry, prioritising safety and sustainable practices is essential. At European Springs, we understand the importance of integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices into our business operations. So, with this in mind, we have decided to switch up how we conduct first aid training.

Recently, we changed the way our Company First Aid Team are trained. Our HR Manager, David Purvis, is a qualified First Aid at Work Instructor and has taken on the challenge of teaching all the first aiders in-house.

So, in this blog, we will explore how this in-house first aid training plays a pivotal role in enhancing ESG practices and how our team has found the shift in training. So, whether you are part of the manufacturing industry or simply interested in how first aid training contributes to a safer and more sustainable future, we aim to inform and enlighten you.

What Are ESG Practices?

ESG practices consist of three core elements which contribute to long-term sustainability and a positive corporate image:

• Environmental responsibility, which focuses on minimising the company’s impact on the environment.
• Social responsibility, which involves creating a positive impact on employees, communities, and society at large.
• Governance, which focuses on ethical management and responsible decision-making.

By integrating ESG practices, companies can mitigate environmental risks, reduce their carbon footprint, and drive innovation towards growth and success in their field. They also demonstrate a company’s commitment to responsible business, improve brand reputation, drive long-term growth, and align with the expectations of investors, customers, and society.

The Benefits of First Aid Training on ESG Metrics

First aid training is crucial for several reasons and is necessary in all workplaces, especially in the manufacturing industry. However, it also impacts a company’s ESG metrics; let’s take a look at how:

• Increased Employee Safety and Well-being. By providing first aid training, the team at European Springs demonstrate our commitment to prioritising the safety and well-being of our employees. This training equips them with the necessary skills to respond promptly in emergencies, reducing the risk of injuries and accidents.
• Enhanced Response During Environmental Emergencies. Environmental emergencies pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. With first aid training, our employees are well-prepared to respond effectively to such incidents, which showcases our commitment to sustainable solutions.
• Positive Corporate Image and Reputation. Prioritising first aid training contributes to a positive corporate image and reputation. It showcases European Springs’ commitment to employee well-being and responsible management. Aligning with the governance aspect of ESG practices, our dedication to first aid training demonstrates our ethical approach to business operations.

In-House First Aid Training: Enhancing ESG Practices at European Springs

First aid training is integral to our commitment to ESG practices at European Springs. We not only comply with manufacturing industry regulations as spring manufacturers but aim to exceed them. That is why we decided to bring our first aid training in-house, led by our HR Manager and First Aid at Work Instructor, David Purvis.

This began with training four new members of the First Aid Team: Daniel Gillam, Jane Merrick, Alan Lowing, and James Gathercole, who recently undertook the three-day First Aid at Work course. David says the recruits performed brilliantly during the training and passed with flying colours, joining the other first aid team members, ready to react to any emergency situation. To ensure they remain ready at all times, refresher training is in the planning process, alongside anumber of practice scenarios which will take place throughout the year. David said, ‘All first aiders must be able to draw on their knowledge and training at any point, so it is important that we keep their skills fresh and up to date with regular training sessions’. By training our first aiders ourselves, we can ensure that all training is relevant, up to date, and that the instructor is on call in case the team has questions about first aid situations before they arise.

Stuart McSheehy, Managing Director for European Springs, comments, ‘It’s a fantastic position to be in, in being able to train our own people’.

Well done to the new additions to the team; let us hope that the skills all have gained will not be needed.

How Does this Impact ESG Practices?

First aid training plays an essential role in enhancing ESG practices in the manufacturing industry. By prioritising employee safety and well-being, responding effectively during environmental emergencies, and cultivating a positive corporate image, European Springs demonstrates its dedication to ESG practices.

In addition, our dedication to the ‘S’ element of ESG is showcased in our ability to bring our first aid training in-house. As mentioned, this is because it provides an excellent upskilling opportunity for our recruits and gives them hands-on instruction with a member of the European Springs team. This could be the difference in them feeling comfortable enough to ask a question, which, in turn, could be the difference between them remembering exactly what to do when faced with an emergency.

Whatever it takes, we remain committed to providing top-notch first aid training and equipping our workforce with the skills they need to create a safer and more sustainable future. Let us embrace first aid training as integral to building a safer and better world together.

For more company updates and to stay connected with the European Springs team, check out our blog or follow our social media channels: LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.