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

Digital engineering graphic

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

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

Increased Efficiency

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

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

Engineer working on a digital factory

Improved Quality Control

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

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

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

Enhanced Supply Chain Management

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

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

Engineers working on a laptop

Cost Reduction

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

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

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

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

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

Manufacturing engineers being tutored by a senior team member

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

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

Addressing the Skills Gap

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

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

Two manufacturing engineers working together on a practical project

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

Workforce Development

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

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

Improved Productivity

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

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

Senior engineer tutoring a manufacturing engineer

Building Strong Communities

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

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

Apprenticeships at European Springs

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

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

Someone writing about sustainable solutions for manufacturers

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

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

Why Does Sustainable Spring Manufacturing Matter?

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

Close-up image of a metal spring

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

How Do Our Efforts Impact the Wider Industry?

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

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

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

Green factory

Our Sustainability Statement

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

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

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

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

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

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

Metal spring close up

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

What’s Next?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fast moving train on tracks

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

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

Suspension Systems

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

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

Springs at the bottom of trains

Railway Signalling

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

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

Pantographs and Current Collectors

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

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

The bottom of a train

Brake Systems

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

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

Railroad Maintenance

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

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

European Springs’ Work with the Rail Industry

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

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

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

Exhibitions are incredibly important for manufacturing companies such as ourselves for several reasons. For example, they are excellent networking opportunities and allow manufacturers to connect with other businesses in their industry. This can lead to partnerships, collaborations, and other beneficial relationships.

European Springs team at their stand at an exhibition

In addition, exhibitions allow us to showcase our compression springs, flat springs, and other products and services to a large number of potential customers, hopefully leading to valuable leads and new business opportunities. They are also the perfect chance to improve brand awareness, offer market research opportunities, and conduct competitor analysis.

Because of their long list of advantages, we make sure to have a jam-packed calendar of exhibitions and travel across the world to showcase what we do and connect with those in the industry. So let’s take a look at what we have planned for the year and where you can visit us.

The Security Event – 25th-27th April

The Security Event is an annual trade show and conference dedicated to the security industry. It features exhibitors from various security industry sectors, including access control, fire safety, CCTV, cybersecurity, perimeter protection, and more.

We’re thrilled to attend this important event and can’t wait to speak to industry experts and customers alike. So visit us at The Security Event this week at the NEC in Birmingham; you can find us at stand 4/J42.

Get more information: https://www.thesecurityevent.co.uk/

National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference and Exhibition – 23rd-24th May

The National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference and Exhibition is an annual event held in Ireland that brings together manufacturing and supply chain professionals to discuss and showcase the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the field. The exciting event features a wide range of industry experts and keynote speakers offering unique perspectives.

The National Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference and Exhibition is a great opportunity for professionals in the manufacturing and supply chain industries to connect, collaborate, and gain insights into the latest innovations and trends in their field.

Get more information and register your interest: https://www.manufacturingevent.com/

Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) – 6th-8th June

European Springs stand at an exhibitionThe Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) is an annual event focused on the latest developments and innovations in aircraft interior design, technology, and equipment, so as spring manufacturers for the defence and aerospace industry, we’re always excited to get involved. The expo, held in Germany, brings together suppliers, manufacturers, designers, and industry professionals from around the world to showcase their products and services across a wide range of topics.

Get more information and register your interest: https://www.aircraftinteriorsexpo.com/

Subcon – 7th-8th June

Subcon is an annual UK-based manufacturing and engineering trade show that brings together professionals and companies involved in the manufacturing supply chain. The event showcases the latest innovations, technologies, and services in many of the industry sectors we supply our springs are pressings for, such as aerospace, automotive, defence, energy, medical, and rail.

Get more information and register your interest: https://www.subconshow.co.uk/

Machine Building.Live – 4th October

Machine Building.Live is an exceptional opportunity to connect with the largest gathering of machine-building experts ever assembled in the UK. This one-day event features a unique format designed to maximise your access to information in a minimal time.

We’re thrilled to be attending this fascinating exhibition and showcasing our exceptional products that go into producing an endless list of machines.

Get more information and register your interest: https://machinebuilding.live/

Engineering Design Show – 11th-12th October

Established in 2012, the Engineering Design Show is an annual event connecting engineering professionals showcasing their latest engineering design, manufacturing, and electronics innovations. The show is aimed at engineers, designers, and decision-makers involved in designing and developing new products, systems, and technologies, making European Springs and our spring design experts an ideal fit.

Get more information and register your interest: https://www.engineeringdesignshow.co.uk/

A manufacturing industry exhibition

UK Manufacturing & Supply Chain Glasgow – 25th October

The UK Manufacturing & Supply Chain Glasgow is designed to provide a platform for businesses to showcase their products, services, and technologies, as well as network with other professionals and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends. Featuring a range of exhibitors from different manufacturing industry sectors, visitors can expect to see demonstrations of new technologies, equipment, and processes, as well as attend seminars and workshops on topics such as automation, sustainability, and digitalisation.

Get more information and register your interest: https://www.manufacturingexposcotland.com/

Advanced Engineering – 1st-2nd November

The 14th edition of Advanced Engineering will feature several interactive zones, including a startup zone, a connected manufacturing zone, and a composite engineering hub. These areas showcase the latest innovations and provide attendees hands-on experience with new technologies. Here at European Springs, we’re always looking for new ideas and fresh solutions, and this event is all about looking to the future and embracing important change.

Get more information and register your interest: https://www.advancedengineeringuk.com/

Team European Springs at an exhibition stand

Tips for Visiting European Springs at an Exhibition

If any (or all) of these events have piqued your interest and you’d like to visit us at one of the exhibitions, we’d like to offer some of our top tips. After decades of attending these events, we’ve become quite the experts!

  • Plan ahead. Before attending the exhibition, research the exhibitors, the products they offer, and the topics that will be covered. This will help you identify the most relevant booths and presentations to attend and make the most of your time at the exhibition.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. Exhibitions are usually quite large, and you may need to walk around for several hours, so wearing comfortable shoes can make a big difference in your experience.
  • Take notes. Whether you’re attending on behalf of your business or as a customer, bring a notebook and pen or use your smartphone to take notes about the products, technologies, and ideas that interest you. This will help you remember what you learned and make it easier to follow up on opportunities after the exhibition.
  • Engage with exhibitors. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and engage with the exhibitors. We are there to showcase our products and services and are always more than happy to answer questions and offer our expertise.

For more information and a full calendar of our upcoming events, please visit our Exhibitions page. And as always, feel free to get in touch, and a member of our team will be more than happy to help.

The whole manufacturing industry has embraced reaching net zero and becoming more sustainable. This is no small feat, as the industry is responsible for an estimated 20% of UK emissions.

European Springs is committed to supporting a more sustainable and ecological industry, developing strategies to ensure future generations have a greener future. We’ve collected some ways the spring manufacturing industry can help companies reach their net-zero goals.

Turning blocks to a net zero graphic for the manufacturing industry

1. Sustainable Materials

One of the most critical ways spring manufacturers can help other companies reach their net zero goals is using sustainable materials. Sustainable materials, such as recycled steel and other metals, reduce the energy consumption required to make a product by up to 40%. Options such as these help minimise a company’s carbon footprint and are much more environmentally friendly. It will also reduce the need for mining, depleting an already limited source of metals and destroying the habitats of animals and wildlife.

Another example of a sustainable manufacturing process is the closed-looped industry. It is an optimised process that minimises the negative environmental impacts and conserves energy and natural resources. It also enhances employee, community and product safety.

Hands holding mud and a plant with energy saving symbols surrounding it

2. Energy-Efficient Processes

Energy efficiency is the name of the game when it comes to reaching net-zero goals. Due to the increasing knowledge of the industry’s environmental impact, the focus has shifted to creating more energy-efficient processes. The benefits of energy-efficient processes include lowering greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants and decreasing water usage.

Additionally, manufacturers are intensive energy users that can gain significant savings by decarbonisation. Switching to low-carbon technologies, such as solar panels and biomass systems, supports both the net zero strategy but can also support the financial optimisation of a business. Renewable energy, such as solar or wind power, can help eliminate additional toxins and gases expelled into the environment. Toxins like these can harm vegetation and life, causing health implications and adding to the greenhouse gases. By reducing your facility’s output, you can assist in maintaining a healthier environment for future generations and create more energy-efficient processes.

3. Lifecycle Analysis

In the manufacturing industry, a product’s lifecycle needs to be analysed. A life cycle analysis measures the environmental impact of a product or service throughout its life cycle, from the resources used to create the product or service across its use by the user to its end-of-life destination. Analysing a product’s life cycle helps us compare products, materials, and methods used, providing helpful information to make decisions that could help the environment. It is a standardised method to assess environmental impacts quantitatively.

Energy efficient lifecycle

The lifecycle assessment can be used for different products by different people. But it is all about the environmental impact and performance. What can you discover by using the lifecycle analysis?

  • Design. What changes can you make to the product to lessen its environmental impact?
  • Purchasing. Which product has the most negligible ecological implications?
  • Marketing. Is this product ‘greener’ than a competitor?
  • Benchmarking. How’s our company doing next to all the others in our industry?
  • Tracking. How’s our environmental performance this year compared to last year?
  • Policy. What initiatives will help improve overall ecological outcomes?

4. Innovative Technology Which Reduces Waste

Reducing the amount of waste a product produces is an innovative way to help the environment. As a UK spring manufacturer, we know that one of the most successful ways that improvements can be made in your company includes the waste hierarchy in your work process. While not a piece of technology, the waste hierarchy can be used as a stepping stone for your company to manage the waste it produces effectively. These steps are:

  • Prevention. Preventing materials from becoming waste means preventing any problems pre-emptively.
  • Reuse or recycle. Reusing applies to refurbishing and repairing objects to extend their life. Recycling waste materials focuses on ensuring that any materials designated for waste are recycled for new uses.
  • Recovery. Recovery is the process of incinerating waste materials to regain some of the lost energy used in the collection. Often, these materials are burned to produce electricity and, in turn, reduce the number of fossil fuels burnt.
  • Disposal. The lowest step in the hierarchy and arguably the worst option environmentally. This choice means that all of the waste produced from manufacturing will end up in a landfill site.

Additionally, many manufacturers invest in innovative technology, such as air source heat pumps, for their building heating and cooling needs. These new alternatives to conventional systems are significantly more environmentally friendly. By choosing these alternatives, manufacturers can open more possibilities for using green electricity tariffs, which many energy suppliers offer.

Sustainable manufacturing graphic

5. Collaboration With Sustainable Companies and Initiatives

The future of the manufacturing industry is green. As the UK’s 2050 deadline for net zero approaches, it is essential that companies and eco-initiatives can collaborate and are committed to sustainable strategies. In many ways, we can only reach this net zero goal by working together to achieve it.

The net zero strategy’s overall essence is to balance the carbon emissions produced and the carbon removed from the atmosphere. This balance makes it net zero. It will benefit the environment, society, economy, and your business individually. By promoting a collaborative environment, you are driving and enabling sustainable practices.

Some examples of current and ongoing ecological initiatives that you could use:

  • Using circular manufacturing to save energy and reduce waste
  • Implement safety measures by utilising automation tools
  • Digitise internal communication

European Springs is a leading manufacturer of custom springs in the UK. We are constantly working to improve our high-quality spring manufacturing process so that they continue to have a minimal environmental impact. Contact us to discuss our working methods or any bespoke spring designs you need for your next application.

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