As we bid farewell to 2023, it is time for us to share the latest developments in the UK manufacturing industry. The past twelve months have been nothing short of remarkable for our sector, a sector that continues to evolve at a fast pace. And while we look forward to the start of 2024, it is still crucial to stay abreast of the latest developments that have shaped and will continue to shape the future of our industry.

In the dynamic landscape of manufacturing, staying informed is not just an advantage; it is a necessity. Our sector’s resilience and adaptability have been on full display throughout the year as manufacturers across the globe embraced challenges and seized opportunities. From the integration of AI on factory floors to sustainable practices redefining production processes, every news headline has been decisive in shaping the future of manufacturing in 2023.

In this blog, we will specifically focus on sustainability, which is currently one of the most urgent aspects to discuss. Read on to learn more about how sustainable activities are improving the manufacturing industry.

Smoke coming out of a chimney
Eco-Friendly Horizons: Manufacturing’s Pledge to Slash CO2 Emissions by 2030

In an era where environmental sustainability has become a global demand, the manufacturing industry is taking bold strides towards a greener future. The commitment to lower CO2 emissions by 2030 is not merely a pledge but an indispensable mission that the entire sector is undertaking worldwide. From innovative technologies to transformative practices, many manufacturers are implementing many new processes, all aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of both their facilities and their supply chains.

A light bulb with a world map inside

Innovations Driving Sustainability: Advancements in Machinery and Renewable Energy

Manufacturers are leading a technological revolution to reduce CO2 emissions by investing in cutting-edge automated machinery. Advanced automation systems are becoming the main drivers of sustainable manufacturing. These technologies inspired by Industry 4.0 optimise energy consumption, minimise waste, and enhance operational efficiency. By upgrading their infrastructure, manufacturers are keeping pace with the demands of modern production and moving significant steps towards a sustainable future.

Another valuable element the manufacturing industry is adopting to achieve the ambitious target of lowering CO2 emissions is increasingly turning to renewable energy sources. Solar, wind, and hydropower are emerging as key players in powering manufacturing operations. For example, the installation of on-site renewable energy systems, coupled with energy storage solutions, is revolutionising the way manufacturers approach production, paving the way for a greener manufacturing ecosystem.

A light bulb with a world map inside

Sustainable Practices: Circular Economy Principles and Innovative Methods

Circular economy principles are helping manufacturers across all industries to minimise the environmental impact of their supply chains. Taking steps like designing components for products with longer lifecycles, incorporating recyclable materials, and establishing take-back systems for end-of-life products is becoming the standardised procedure. This shift not only reduces waste but also transforms manufacturing processes into more resource-efficient and eco-friendly endeavours. The circular economy is a key driver in achieving emission reduction targets while fostering a sustainable approach to production, and the fact that manufacturers are putting it into practice means they are on the right track.

The implementation of innovative methods such as 3D printing prototypes and modular design is also gaining momentum in the industry’s goals for increased sustainability. These approaches enable more efficient use of materials, reducing both resource consumption and waste generation. Manufacturers are realising that sustainability and innovation go hand in hand, and these practices are reshaping the industry’s landscape. As the manufacturing sector evolves, these innovative methods are becoming integral to achieving the 2030 emission reduction goals.

A group of robotic arms working on a machine

Liabilities in the Age of AI and Automation

While embracing sustainability, spring manufacturers are also navigating the challenges and opportunities that come with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into Industry 4.0’s existing automation. The use of AI-driven systems, such as autonomous vehicles and factory robots, raises questions about liability, and the manufacturing sector is facing the need for universally accepted guidelines to avoid uncertainties. The importance of global collaboration and the establishment of best practices cannot be overstated. At European Springs, we are committed to constantly sharing insights and experiences to create and foster the most sustainable approach to AI adoption.

A person's hands holding a small plant

A Green Legacy for Future Generations

As manufacturers pledge to reduce CO2 emissions by 2030, their commitment extends beyond a mere adoption of sustainable practices; it represents a proactive endeavour to leave an indelible mark on the legacy of future generations. This commitment goes beyond a response to a current trend; it is a meaningful acknowledgement of the responsibility borne by the manufacturing sector in shaping the future of our planet. The connection between technological innovation and eco-friendly practices is at the heart of this transformative shift in the manufacturing landscape. As industry leaders, policymakers, and the global community join forces, a collective effort is underway to position the manufacturing sector as a dynamic force propelling the transition towards a world that is not only sustainable but inherently greener.

This journey toward lower CO2 emissions means more than just an industry-specific initiative; it is the symbol of a shared commitment echoing across borders and sectors. The collaborative spirit ingrained in this effort shows a dedication to safeguarding the Earth. Such a pledge not only addresses the immediate challenges of reducing carbon footprints but also sets the stage for a legacy of responsible manufacturing practices, illustrating that the industry is not just adapting to change but actively participating in the co-creation of a sustainable and harmonious world for posterity.

European Springs & Pressings’ Commitment to the Environment

The power to shape the future of the manufacturing industry and the world at large rests firmly in our hands. As we embark on 2024, we will continue to support sustainable technologies and emerging innovations while sharing knowledge and resources.

At European Springs & Pressings, our pledge to sustainability extends beyond a mere objective; it is ingrained in our business philosophy and guides our every action. Recognising the importance of preserving the environment, we continually strive to improve our manufacturing processes and incorporate eco-friendly practices throughout our operations. If this is an important aspect of your business and you want to learn more about our commitment, contact us today, and we will be happy to answer your questions.

A close-up of a fan

The Role of Pressings and Springs in Aerospace

The average passenger may overlook them, but the truth is pressings and springs are indispensable in aerospace engineering. These essential components form the bedrock of an aircraft’s structural integrity and massively help operational efficiency.

In this blog, we at European Springs will explore the intricate synergy between pressings and springs, delving into the craftsmanship that defines aerospace engineering. As passengers soar through the skies, it is worth appreciating the complexity beneath the surface, where these unheralded elements work together to guarantee a safe and smooth journey.

Springs and Pressings in Aerospace

In aerospace engineering, pressings, with their precise shapes, serve as building blocks. From reinforcing wing structures to supporting fuselage components, they flawlessly integrate into various structural elements of the aircraft, ensuring its overall strength and durability.

Springs, instead,  represent the dynamic aspect, contributing to the aircraft’s controlled movements and safety mechanisms. For instance, landing gear relies on specialised springs to absorb the impact forces during touchdown, whilst control systems within the aircraft leverage them to maintain stability, offering pilots the necessary feedback for precise and responsive manoeuvring.

The front of a plane landing gear
Springs: Creating the Aircraft’s Skeleton

In aerospace, the significance of springs goes beyond their mechanical functionality; their reliability, precision, and performance stand as foundational pillars. These small components serve as the backbone of numerous systems within an aircraft, contributing to its overall stability, damping capabilities, and the facilitation of precise movements when and where needed.

A prime example of the indispensable role played by suspension springs is evident in the landing gear, the moment of truth in every flight. As one of the most demanding phases for both the aircraft and passengers, a smooth and controlled landing is paramount. Suspension springs absorb the impact forces upon touchdown, transforming a potentially jolting experience into a seamlessly executed descent, ensuring the safety and comfort of everyone on board.

Beyond landings, these springs extend their influence into the aircraft’s control systems and flight control surfaces, regulating motion in the skies. Whether orchestrating subtle adjustments to the plane’s direction or fine-tuning the wing’s angle to navigate diverse flying conditions, aerospace springs are pivotal in enhancing the overall effectiveness and safety of these intricate mechanisms. Their reliability and precision contribute significantly to the seamless dance of an aircraft through the skies.

The engine of a plane

Pressings: The Silent Support Structure

While springs play a crucial role as the functional backbone in aerospace engineering, pressings take centre stage in constructing the physical framework of an aircraft. Renowned for their remarkable versatility, these pressings find applications in various structural elements, fasteners, and mounting systems that collectively ensure the stability and cohesion of every part of the aircraft. Whether forming the skeleton of the fuselage or acting as connectors for critical components, pressings contribute to the aircraft’s overall structural integrity.

In aerospace engineering, where tolerances are exceptionally tight, the precision of pressings becomes paramount. These components excel in ensuring the meticulous assembly of different aircraft parts, ranging from engines to wings and tail assemblies. The ability of pressings to facilitate perfect fits without any margin for error is instrumental in achieving the flawless integration of diverse elements, each playing a vital role in the aircraft’s overall functionality.

Pressings prove their strength in the demanding environment of an aircraft’s engines. As integral components in the construction of the engine’s combustion chambers and as essential parts of the fastening systems that secure engines to the wings, pressings showcase their resilience and strength. Enduring extreme temperatures and pressures within the engine compartment, these components withstand the harshest conditions while maintaining the aircraft’s reliability and performance.

Have you ever wondered how the seats, overhead compartments, and in-flight entertainment systems remain securely fastened in civilian aircraft? Once again, pressings come to the rescue. Their widespread use ensures that everything inside the cabin stays firmly in place, contributing not only to passenger comfort but also to the overall safety and functionality of the aircraft’s interior components.

A group of fighter jets flying in the skySprings and Pressings in Military Aircraft

In the complex world of military aircraft, the collaboration between springs and pressings underscores the utmost importance of these components in ensuring the effectiveness and survivability of aircraft. From withstanding the stresses of high-G manoeuvres to housing sophisticated weaponry, springs and pressings in military aircraft embody the pinnacle of engineering excellence, where precision and durability are not just desirable but mission-critical attributes.

Springs emerge as indispensable; their precision is elevated to meet the rigorous demands of fighter jets and helicopters operating in complex and challenging environments. Unlike their civilian counterparts, these specialised springs are engineered to face extreme conditions, ensuring reliable operation in the face of high-speed manoeuvres, rapid accelerations, and intense vibrations. Their role here extends beyond mere shock absorption during landings; their purpose is to stabilise control surfaces, calibrate weaponry, and contribute to mission success.

Meanwhile, pressings take on heightened importance, enabling the construction of critical components such as the housing for missile systems, weapon mounts, and other vital equipment. The harsh operational conditions that military aircraft frequently endure demand pressings with rugged durability and unparalleled precision. These components not only provide the structural integrity needed to support advanced weaponry but also contribute to the integration of various systems, ensuring reliability in the most demanding combat situations. The combination of strength and precision in pressings becomes a strategic advantage in military aviation, where split-second decisions and flawless execution are paramount.

A close-up of a plane
Why Entrust European Springs?

At European Springs, as a leading spring manufacturer and supplier, we have experienced first-hand how crucial springs and pressings have become in supporting the ever-advancing field of aerospace. With an extensive spring catalogue and bespoke designs, we ensure our products stand up to the demanding standards of the industry.

Our priority is to remain at the forefront of spring and pressing technology, meeting our clients’ needs with quality, precision, and innovation, whether used for civilian or military purposes. We are proud to contribute to the remarkable journey of flight, ensuring each aircraft that uses our components enjoys the benefits of safety, reliability, and precision.

The next time you settle into your seat on a flight, remember the multitude of springs and pressings around you, thinking about how safe and comfortable your journey is, thanks to them.

When it comes to flight, with all its complexities, we understand the importance of getting things right. So, if you are part of the incredible aerospace industry, we are here to assist you in meeting your component needs with our top-quality products.

For any machine application, meeting the required design specifications and ensuring component reliability is crucial, and there are few sectors with more exacting requirements than the defence sector. Any unpredictable behaviour in springs and pressings will lead to catastrophic consequences, especially within military applications.

This is why, at European Springs, we employ precise manufacturing processes, utilising industry-leading machinery. Our stringent approach guarantees springs and pressings that align with defence requirements, ensuring consistent performance and longevity. Read on to learn more about military-grade springs and pressings.

Springs in Ground Defence

Springs are vital components in various ground defence systems as their inclusion in designs significantly improves mobility and performance in a variety of challenging scenarios. For example, you’ll find a broad range from torsion to compression springs used in propulsion systems within armoured vehicles, tanks, and other defence-oriented vehicles.

Another example is suspension systems; our springs manage impacts from uneven terrain and provide optimal comfort for troops operating armoured vehicles. Skilfully designed by our expert team and manufactured to withstand heavy loads and rigorous use, our springs ensure that ground defence vehicles maintain maximum responsiveness, even in the harshest environments.

Additionally, springs are indispensable to firearms and artillery mechanisms, like recoil systems. They assist in dissipating energy when a weapon is fired, contributing to better accuracy, longevity, and safety.

Springs in Air Defence

Our spring design team’s expertise also extends to the aerospace sector, where close tolerances and high-performance materials are essential. Springs play a significant role in numerous aerospace applications, including the safety, longevity, and performance of aircraft.

One example is constant-torque springs, which are used in military aircraft. As part of the complex mechanisms in military machines, these springs play a significant role. One of their primary functions in military aircraft is within the seating mechanisms.

Military drones, which are a specific type of military aircraft, use an array of spring designs to ensure their proper functioning. This includes the drone’s need to withstand high speeds, extreme temperatures, and vibrations.

Additionally, various spring designs, such as parachutes and ejection seats, are integral to safety equipment. Being critical life-saving devices, their dependability and robustness are indispensable, and our springs are designed to deliver consistent performance for their entire lifecycle.

Springs in Sea Defence

Similarly, springs serve crucial functions in naval defence applications as they contribute to powerful propulsion systems that demand durability and efficacy. They also contribute to the manufacturing of sophisticated weaponry used by naval vessels, from gunfire control systems to missile launchers.

While it’s challenging to pinpoint a single most commonly used spring design in military and marine applications due to their vast and varying needs, compression, extension, and torsion springs are standard components found in many naval equipment and devices.

As for the material, the materials used for springs in such high-stress conditions need to be robust, corrosion-resistant, and durable. Therefore, the most commonly used materials are often variants of high-strength steel alloys, as they will frequently need to withstand water, salt, and extremes of temperature and pressure. Other construction materials might include certain heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant polymers, which have been found to be safe and strong for many military applications.

Position of Pressings and Wireforms in Defence

As you can see, whilst it’s common to find springs throughout defence sector applications, you’ll often find general wire forms and pressings within those applications also.  These fine-tuned components drive efficiency across ground, air, and sea defence systems. Here are some examples of their use.

Pressings Applications

Pressings deliver reliability and durability. They are used in applications in radio communication equipment, assisting in signal transmission. In vehicle armour, precise pressings improve reinforcement. They adhere to strict manufacturing standards, ensuring consistency and performance in high-stress environments.

Wireforms Applications

Wire forms, tailored to the task, provide flexibility, strength, and resilience. In aerospace control systems, they ensure seamless operations. Wire forms contribute to vehicle suspension mechanisms, aiding in off-road mobility. Crafted meticulously, they meet the stringent demands of the defence industry, reinforcing reliability in all applications.

Insights from DSEI 2023

Defence & Security Equipment International (DSEI) represents a prominent global stage for defence and security professionals. This event showcases cutting-edge advancements, facilitates collaboration, and fosters invaluable networks across the industry.

This year’s gathering proved to be particularly impactful, framing significant global defence and security discussions under the theme “Achieving the Integrated Force”. This event showcased the future of defence, with an emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and integration across many industries, including manufacturing.

Members of our group regularly attend DSEI, and we regard it as an optimum opportunity to reveal our innovative developments and demonstrate our steadfast commitment to advancing the defence sector.

Attending DSEI presents several undeniable benefits. By engaging in discussions and exploring the latest technologies, we broaden our knowledge and hone our edge. Collaboration with partners and clients ensures constant evolution in our manufacturing processes, maintaining a high level of excellence.

By attending this event, we bring awareness to our position as industry leaders to clients and share our dedication to delivering outstanding solutions in the defence and security sectors.

Defence and Aerospace UK Spring Manufacturer

As part of supplying the defence industry with the highest quality springs, pressings and wire forms, we are often tasked with manufacturing springs needed for aerospace applications — whether that be for next-generation airborne smart decoys, high-spec electrical connectors, the Eurofighter and much more.

We’re renowned for our comprehensive range of springs and wire forms, and for over seven decades, we have established ourselves as one of the most reliable spring manufacturers in the UK and across Europe. Contact us directly to discuss how our manufacturing processes will fulfil the requirements of your next project.

 

The collaboration between manufacturers and energy companies is consistently beneficial, and this is especially relevant when considering the engineering possibilities related to springs. The energy sector, divergent from traditional industries, promotes continuous progression in component design. While this has always been true, it has accelerated in recent years with the increased investments in renewable technologies. Read on to explore how these two sectors work collaboratively for the betterment of each other and the world.

The Power of Collaboration Between Spring Manufacturers and Energy Companies

Whilst stock springs provide consistently reliable results, this limitation often proves to be restrictive for the evolving nature of applications in the energy sector. This creates a persistent demand for custom spring design, further encouraging collaboration with spring manufacturers to engage in innovative pursuits to fulfil the needs of the changing sector.

The rewards for energy companies within this collaboration are substantial. By having spring manufacturers create custom solutions, they obtain products that align directly with their specific needs. It is this higher level of manufacturing control and quality that encourages sustained reliability—an essential element in the energy sector.

The collaboration is not confined to addressing intricate engineering difficulties alone. The openness of the partnership fosters iterative feedback exchange across many areas, from component specifications and capabilities to how they are sourced for responsible manufacturing. Energy companies communicate their unique challenges, enabling spring manufacturers to refine their expertise. It represents a symbiotic relationship driven by common objectives, including efficient solutions, operational excellence, and market competitiveness.

European Spring’s Work With the Energy Sector

We have decades of experience interfacing with electrical power entities across Europe. Our skill set is anchored in our ability to construct high-quality springs, pressings, and wire forms – components that are indispensable in various energy-generation mechanisms and machinery.

Our springs for electrical power primarily revolve around the creation of components designed specifically for electrical applications, acting as the foundation of numerous widely used electrical products. The intricate fabrication of these customised solutions demands a keen understanding of precision engineering underpinned by comprehensive experience in the field. We utilise a unique blend of technical craftsmanship and innovative methodologies to deliver components that align diligently with our client’s requirements.

Central to our operations is a commitment to serve a broad spectrum of industries with our springs and bespoke pressings. Geographical borders do not restrict our manufacturing expertise. Collaborating with global associates, such as the Lesjöfors Group, we take pride in our ability to design, produce, and deliver esteemed products to customers across the globe.

Role of Spring Designs in the Energy Sector

As a dedicated UK spring manufacturer, we harness precise mechanical properties in designing springs. Compression, torsion, and extension springs comprise our core portfolio.

Compression Springs

Our specifically designed compression springs serve a pivotal role in energy generation. These springs store energy and exert a resisting push force when compressed. In energy applications, they are often found in safety valves, acting as a central element in preventing pressure build-up.

Torsion Springs

Torsion springs, another key product, operate by applying torque or rotational energy. Depending on their design, these springs can store and release angular energy or simply hold a mechanism in place. They are frequent constituents of generator mechanisms, providing crucial support in maintaining operational efficiency.

Tension Springs

Tension springs, distinguished by their tightly coiled loops, store energy and create resistance to pull forces. Commonly employed within electrical switchgear and circuit breakers, these springs aid in managing electricity flow and promoting safety standards.

Wire form Designs in the Energy Industry

At European Springs, we fabricate intricate wire forms, each tailored to their unique energy sector applications. Designing these wire forms demands an integration of innovation, precision, and versatility to adequately serve the broad energy sector needs.

Our wire forms are often utilised within power line transmission systems. In these settings, they prove indispensable for securing key elements and promoting transmission efficiency. Custom-designed wire forms also find applications in housing and securing electrical wiring in power stations or distribution equipment.

Pressing Designs and their Impact on the Energy Sector

Equally critical in our line of work are bespoke pressings. We design and manufacture pressings that offer unique solutions tailored to energy industry applications.

Our precision pressings provide invaluable mechanical advantages within energy systems. These often act as connectors within electrical systems, such as circuit breakers and switchgear. Their design and manufacture necessitate a deep understanding of the EC directives connected to the energy market.

In conclusion, our tailored spring designs, wire forms, and pressings are integral to the energy industry’s demands. Whether driving efficiency, promoting safety, or ensuring connectivity, our products epitomise the power of precision engineering in the energy sector.

Bespoke Spring Manufacturing for the Energy Sector

As a spring manufacturer working with international electrical power companies, our role extends beyond the simple manufacturing of components. We are partners in progress with this sector, providing the energy sector with robust and effective spring solutions that propel the industry towards more efficient energy generation and distribution systems.

Our constant pursuit of pioneering spring designs triggers new possibilities for future energy production, including renewables. Contact our team directly to discover how our expert engineer’s work will benefit your energy facility.

UK manufacturers understand the environmental imperatives at stake, and we’ve been taking robust strides towards reducing carbon footprints and conserving resources. A sense of social responsibility doesn’t just drive this commitment alone. It’s also about creating durable, efficient practices that will benefit the industry, economy and the planet long term.

Even with the UK government’s decision earlier this year to defer its Net Zero ambitions, our industry’s dedication to sustainability remains steadfast. Navigating uncertainty, manufacturers are doubling down on efforts to limit carbon emissions and promote renewable energy. The commitment of Lesjöfors Group to the SBTi is a reflective beacon of this unwavering resolve towards a sustainable future.

Understanding this Pioneering SBTi Commitment Strategy

The Lesjöfors Group, a leader in the spring manufacturing industry, is taking climate responsibility to new heights. It has embraced the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTi), a pioneering sustainable scheme that marks a first for the industry. With the Paris Agreement as its compass, Lesjöfors aims to catalyse impactful environmental action throughout its global operations.

At European Springs, we’re proud to be part of a group committed to addressing the world’s most pressing concern – climate change. The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), an effort embraced by the Lesjöfors Group, addresses this issue head-on.

The SBTi happens to be a joint initiative by the UN Global Compact, the World Resources Institute, the World Wide Fund for Nature, and the Carbon Disclosure Project. This agreement encourages businesses worldwide to set science-based targets that align with the Paris Agreement’s ambition – limiting global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C.

In concrete terms, as one of the spring manufacturers that has committed to the SBTi, we pledge to measure and reduce our carbon footprint in line with science’s most recent climate data. It’s this data-driven approach that ensures continual progress in the direction of a sustainable future for us and everyone within the Lesjöfor Group.

The SBTi’s Significance to the Spring Manufacturing Industry

The SBTi’s adoption within the spring manufacturing industry holds immense significance and is the future of manufacturing in general. Our industry, like any other, impacts the environment. It’s our imperative to minimise this as much as possible. The strong commitment to the SBTi sets a credible, science-based course of action to lessen our environmental footprint and inspiration to develop more sustainable practices to improve manufacturing operations.

Through the SBTi commitment, we can ensure our operations align with current science, subsequently driving us down a pathway to a more sustainable future. This initiative doesn’t just promise environmental protection but also promotes industry innovation and robust economic growth, something sorely needed during our nation’s current economic crisis.

SBTi Contributing to a Circular and Sustainable Society

By pledging adherence to the Science Based Targets initiative, Lesjöfors Group enters the path to circularity. SBTi provides explicit routes to cut carbon emissions per the latest scientific data. It creates a roadmap for Lesjöfors to transition gradually from the linear, extractive industrial models to a circular, regenerative system.

The Concept: Circular Sustainability

A circular approach to sustainability transforms how we view resource management. It champions recycling, reusing, and reducing outputs in the quest for a waste-free, ecologically balanced society. Instead of the traditional linear model of ‘make, use, dispose’, this approach promotes a cyclic process where waste reincarnates as a resource.

Embracing SBTi: A Step Towards a Circular Future

The SBTi’s core encourages circular principles. Its focus is not merely on reducing carbon footprints but also catalysing industry-wide sustainability. Embracing the SBTi commits Lesjöfors to sustainable practices that enable a continuous value cycle. Our products and processes will be fine-tuned to maximise resource conservation, creating sustainable outputs.

Benefitting from the Circular Advantage

The work we have already done to reach previously established Net Zero goals in manufacturing makes transitioning to a circular system easy. When you transition to a circular system, the benefits are multifold. Not only does it significantly reduce waste and environmental impact, but it also boosts economic efficiency. It’s a healthy, growth-promoting cycle – lower resource inputs lead to lesser waste outputs, which, in turn, reduces environmental degradation.

Lesjöfors’ Ambition and Commitment Towards Sustainability

As Ola Tengroth, the CEO of Lesjöfors Group, shared the following.

“Our ambition is to become the most sustainable spring and pressing manufacturer in the world. To achieve this, we need to act. We know manufacturing has an impact on our environment, and that is why sustainability integration has historically been one of our core strategic objectives. Advancing our focus, committing to a climate reduction roadmap by setting emission reduction targets grounded in climate science, through the recent signing of the SBTi agreement, is a natural step in our sustainability progression and cements our commitment.”

Additionally, Anna Haesert, Head of Sustainability at Lesjöfors Group, says:

“Sustainability is about looking at the big picture and figuring out how we can contribute to a circular, sustainable society, monitoring technological developments around us, and valuing partnerships and collaboration. Lesjöfors has an ambitious sustainability strategy, and climate action is one of our priorities. We are on a journey, and signing up for the SBTi confirms our commitment and helps direct our roadmap to improve our sustainability goals even further. We have already finalised our complete greenhouse gas accounting, developed our near-term targets and submitted these to the SBTi.”

Sustainable Spring and Pressing Manufacturing at European Springs

With the SBTi commitment, Lesjöfors Group reaffirms its dedication to sustainability, and we are proud to be a part of this plan and this organisation. Together, we’re confident to be a helpful part of this science-based initiative that is leading the way to a sustainable future and to include its processes within our many existing sustainable solutions.

Contact us to discuss our high-quality custom spring design and sustainable manufacturing process with us directly and discover how we will ensure your next project contributes to a sustainable economy.

Springs are essential components within almost every application, from commercial products to industrial machinery and transport. The unique requirements of these varied applications demand the creation of a broad range of spring designs, each tailored to fulfil a specific role; this is where spring design comes in.

Read on to explore the complexities our engineers and spring designers overcome as they mass-produce a broad range of these invaluable components for every industry.

compression spring schematic

The Importance of Spring Design

The importance of design in spring manufacturing cannot be overstated. Precise measurements and careful consideration of various elements are crucial. A bespoke spring design must account for factors like type, load, and movement, as even the slightest alteration can impact performance.

For example, simply changing the material of a spring can significantly impact its capabilities, even without modifying the dimensions. Even a slight adjustment to the outer diameter of a spring can make a world of difference.

When designing a spring, it is essential to consider aspects such as free length, solid height, number of coils, travel and load, force capacity, spring ends, and inner diameter.

We collaborate closely with our clients during the manufacturing process, ensuring our experienced team can effortlessly assist in creating the perfect spring design for your project.

Moreover, it is vital to prioritise spring design before finalising other components of your product. Neglecting spring design can result in safety issues or failure to perform as desired.

A well-thought-out spring design produces the following benefits:

  • Longevity, as the design considers the spring’s operating environment and material specifications.
  • Exceptional quality, thanks to carefully selected spring materials and manufacturing processes.
  • Compatibility with the product it will be integrated into, as precise dimensions are accounted for during the design stage.

Considering the correct spring design also helps to avoid budget overruns. Improperly designed springs can be unreliable, potentially causing product launch delays and increased expenses due to rework or requiring additional batches. By ensuring the initial design is correct, you can have functional springs with the right dimensions, eliminating the need for fixes or reordering.

At European Springs, we encourage collaboration with our customers with our spring design support service to understand your specific needs and ensure that every aspect of spring design is thoroughly evaluated to deliver the best possible results.

Force, Displacement and Stiffness in Spring Design
The fundamental characteristic to remember about springs is their ability to store potential energy when deformed and release it when the deforming force is removed. Force is not the only aspect to consider when designing spring specifications; there is also displacement and stiffness. Here is an explanation of what defines each:

  • Force refers to the applied external load or the resistance a spring offers to deformation.
  • Displacement is the change in position or length of a spring when subjected to a force.
  • Stiffness, however, quantifies how resistant a spring is to deformation. It is determined by the spring’s material, geometry, and dimensions. Higher stiffness means the spring requires more force to induce a given displacement.

Understanding the relationship between force, displacement, and stiffness is key to designing efficient and reliable springs. These fundamentals are essential to establishing the core requirements of the eventual spring design.

spring rate diagram

Spring Design Considerations at European Springs

Designing an effective spring requires a thorough understanding of its operating environment, the application requirements, and the spring material’s physical characteristics. For designers and manufacturers to achieve optimal performance from a custom spring, they must consider several fundamental design principles.

Spring Material Choices

One of the most critical factors in spring design is the choice of material. Selecting the right material can ensure that the spring has the required strength, durability, and corrosion resistance for its intended use. Common materials used in spring manufacturing include stainless steel, carbon steel, high-carbon spring steel, and alloy steel.

Once the material is chosen, designers must consider the spring’s dimensions. Spring dimensions are calculated with a high degree of accuracy using theoretical models. At European Springs, their designers use in-house developed software for all traditional spring types and specially configured FEM software for complicated geometries. This ensures the spring can withstand heavy loads, achieve the required deflection, and maintain its shape and function over time.

Spring Mechanics and Functionality

Designers must also be mindful of each metal’s mechanics, strength theories, and potential functionality. The effect of residual stresses and the control of these stresses are important and are always considered in every design. Our experts maintain detailed knowledge of the many applications and all the standards and specialities that are required for optimal spring design.

Another critical factor to consider is the processing methods involved in spring manufacturing. Processes such as coiling, end grinding, shot peening, and heat treatment are all important considerations in spring design, as they can affect the spring’s performance, fatigue resistance, and longevity. At European Springs, its manufacturing process is adaptable to any specific customer requirement, with various treatments applied to its springs, from electroplating to powder coating.

CNC spring machining

Furthermore, high-speed shock loading and transient phenomena are areas that are important in some applications and are taken into consideration by industry experts. Professional teams can select stress levels through specific training and experimental processes, evaluate creep relaxation and fatigue performances and determine the best processing methods and surface treatment for a particular application.

It is worth noting that the process of spring designing involves many different branches of science. This includes the above-mentioned material science, processing methods, and mechanical engineering theories, spring manufacturing technology, and the importance of tool/control of residual stresses. European Springs encourages and supports customers with a high understanding of springs, spring materials, and surface treatments to work with the company’s team of experts to achieve the best products in the spring and pressing field.

Prototyping and Testing
Prototyping and testing play pivotal, final role in the spring design process. Through iterative design improvements and validation, we refine our designs to achieve optimal performance and reliability. By closely examining each aspect of the prototype and rigorously testing it in real-world conditions, we ensure that our springs meet the highest quality and performance standards.

CNC spring machining operation

Bespoke Spring Design at European Springs

At European Springs, we pride ourselves on our expertise and commitment to delivering exceptional prototype spring and pressing designs. With our team considering various design factors, embracing innovative approaches, and employing collaborative design processes, we create springs that perform flawlessly and enhance the overall design. Contact us today to discover how our custom spring design service can meet your exact requirements.

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