Category: Engineering

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

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.

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.

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.

If you’re considering a career in engineering, knowing the best route for getting qualified can be difficult. Whether you want to earn while you learn or experience a student lifestyle while studying, choosing between an apprenticeship or a degree can be challenging, so we’re here to help.

Here at European Springs, we offer incredible apprenticeship schemes for those interested in joining the spring manufacturing industry, so we thought exploring how this differs from degree learning would be interesting. Read on to learn more about both routes to engineering and what you should do to prepare yourself for deciding between the two.

What Does an Engineering Degree Consist Of?

An engineering degree will differ depending on the type of engineering you’re interested in and where you choose to study. You can expect to learn various technical and practical skills related to your chosen engineering field during an engineering degree. The technical skills learnt often include engineering-based maths, physics, and science, which are taught in a classroom environment and are often the bulk of the degree.

Regarding practical skills, during some degree courses, you may gain hands-on experience working with equipment, tools, and materials related to your field. For example, if you were studying a spring manufacturing module, you may experiment with different engineering processes for manufacturing compression springs. This is often taught in a workshop environment, although not all universities or colleges will have these kinds of facilities available. An engineering degree tends to focus on the written and technical side of engineering and less so on the practical side.

What Do I Need an Engineering Degree For?

Engineering degrees aren’t always necessary if you wish to pursue a career in the industry; however, they are favoured by some employees for several reasons, such as professional licensing opportunities. Obtaining some professional engineering licenses requires a degree from an accredited engineering program, so consider the degree route if you wish to acquire this type of license. Similarly, some employers require a degree as a minimum qualification for job candidates, so undergoing this qualification opens up your job opportunities and makes you appear desirable.

Finally, if you wish to go into teaching, a degree in your chosen field is required before you can complete your teacher training and get into the classroom, making this route preferable for budding teachers.

Advantages and Disadvantages of an Engineering Degree

Weighing up the advantages and disadvantages of engineering degrees is the best way to help decipher whether it would be the best choice for you.

Advantages

Job opportunities. As mentioned, having a degree opens up job opportunities and makes you appear desirable to employers.

Technical knowledge. Engineering degrees are excellent for those wanting to gain classroom-based knowledge in their chosen field.

Professional development. Degrees are perfect opportunities for networking, internship opportunities, and general professional development.

Disadvantages

Not much practical work. As mentioned, degrees mostly focus on the technical and written side of engineering, meaning you miss much of the necessary practical skills in working in the industry.

Limited flexibility. Engineering degrees are highly specialised and may not provide as much flexibility in career paths as an apprenticeship might.

High costs. A degree is a huge financial commitment and requires thousands to complete, and fitting in a part-time job while learning can be challenging due to the high workload.

What and How Will I Learn During an Engineering Apprenticeship?

You will learn technical and practical skills during your engineering apprenticeship, but the specifics will vary depending on your chosen course. For example, at European Springs, you may learn about the technical side of our surface treatment in a classroom environment and study the different material finishes available to our clients. Similarly, when it comes to the practicalities, you may get the opportunity to experiment with said surface treatments, and see, first-hand, the differences each option makes to specific metal components and their uses.

Unlike a degree, the split between practical and technical leans much more toward practical, with a unique learning experience while working.

Where Can an Engineering Apprenticeship Take Me?

Employers favoured degrees more than engineering apprenticeships several years ago, but this has recently changed. Now, an apprenticeship is incredibly favourable and makes candidates desirable to employers because of the fantastic experience gained during the unique practical learning of an apprenticeship.

An engineering apprenticeship can open up many different career paths, depending on your interests and goals. By gaining practical experience and developing valuable skills, you can build a rewarding and fulfilling career in engineering or a related field.

Advantages and Disadvantages of an Engineering Apprenticeship

There are plenty of benefits of engineering apprenticeships, and as a leading provider of apprenticeship schemes for the spring manufacturing industry, we ensure that all our students experience the long list of advantages this route offers.

Advantages

Valuable hands-on experience. Apprenticeships provide a unique, real-life working experience, allowing apprentices to work with the tools and equipment they will use once qualified.

Real-world projects. In the ever-changing engineering industry, the chance to work on real projects is extremely valuable as it allows apprentices to understand the complexities and challenges of engineering work.

Paid training. Unlike degrees and other educational programs, apprenticeships are paid positions. This is incredibly advantageous, especially for young students, as it allows them to earn while they learn without worrying about juggling a part-time job to make money.

Disadvantages

Limited availability. Engineering apprenticeships are incredibly sought-after, meaning they are highly competitive and often have limited availability. Therefore, it is essential to get in quickly and apply as soon as you decide it’s right for you.

Low starting wage. While you have the outstanding opportunity to earn while you learn, an engineering apprentice’s starting wage is often low. However, it’s more than what your friends completing a degree will earn while studying!

As mentioned, if you think an engineering apprenticeship is the right path for you, applying as soon as possible gives you the best chance of getting a place in your desired company. Here at European Springs, we take on apprentices every year and are always looking for dedicated, driven individuals to join our team. Apply now to kickstart your career in this fascinating industry.

There are many factors to consider when choosing spring material and finish, and our expert spring manufacturers are equipped with the knowledge and experience to guide you down the right path for your products and their intended use. 

With so many materials, finishes, and surface treatments to think about, we’re taking a deep dive into the options available and exploring how each can benefit your springs. 

Spring Materials 

There are many different materials used for spring manufacturing, all providing their own list of benefits; here are a few examples: 

• Low-alloy steel. These ferrous metals have various specific factors that make them suitable for certain spring types, such as hot compressive strength, making them last longer under axial stress, which is crucial for springs. 
• Cold-drawn wire. Products made from cold-formed steel parts have great tensile strength and tolerance to stress and temperature. 
• Oil-tempered spring wire. Widely used in the automotive industry, these wire types are often used to manufacture suspension springs and can be ideal for products that use suspension to function.  
• Stainless steel. This material provides an extensive list of benefits, including its ability to withstand hot temperatures and protect against oxidation, making it ideal for spring manufacturing. 

 

Each material offers different qualities, meaning it’s crucial for us, as leading spring manufacturers, to explore the many options available before beginning the manufacturing process. In addition, each spring we manufacture will have its own intended use. This information is collected from our customers before advising on the best material for their springs to ensure their spring is designed for purpose.  

All About Zinc 

Zinc is interesting as it can be used to manufacture springs in addition to providing a desirable finish. It is often used for manufacturing because of its sought-after mechanical properties, such as high tensile strength, good elasticity, and corrosion resistance. Here at European Springs, we have used zinc to manufacture springs for various industry sectors, such as automotive, construction, and electronics. 

In terms of providing a finish to springs, zinc is often used as a coating and can be applied through various methods, such as electroplating. In addition, it is commonly used to protect the product from corrosion and improve its appearance, making it an ideal spring manufacturing material and finish. 

Surface Treatment 

When it comes to surface treatment, plenty of options are available to ensure you get the most out of your spring and make it perfect for its intended use. We offer a wide range of material finished, including: 

 

Plating 

Plating is a process in which a thin layer of metal is deposited onto the surface of a spring to improve its properties, such as corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and appearance. The plating process involves immersing the spring in an electrolytic solution containing the metal ions that will form the coating. An electric current is then passed through the solution, causing the metal ions to be attracted to and deposited onto the spring’s surface. Common metals used for plating springs include zinc, nickel, chrome, gold, and silver. 

Heat Treatment 

Heat treatment is a process used in spring manufacturing to improve the mechanical properties of the spring, such as its strength and toughness. Heat treatment involves subjecting the spring to a specific temperature for a certain period and then cooling it down in a controlled manner. The process can be divided into three stages: heating, soaking, and cooling. During the heating stage, the spring is heated to a specific temperature using a furnace or other heating equipment. The soaking stage involves holding the spring at the target temperature for a set time to allow the material to undergo a structural change. Finally, the cooling stage involves cooling the spring down in a controlled manner to prevent warping or cracking. 

 

Barrelling 

Barrelling is used to improve the surface finish of the spring by removing burrs, sharp edges, and other surface imperfections. This process involves placing the springs in a rotating barrel with abrasive media and chemicals to smooth the surface. Not only does this make the springs more aesthetically pleasing, but it can improve their functionality, too. 

Design Considerations and Thinking About Maintenance 

When selecting a spring material and finish, there are many design considerations to keep in mind, such as stress levels, temperature range, and corrosion resistance. For example, as mentioned, cold-drawn wire and stainless steel are great material choices for springs needing to withstand hot temperatures. Factors like these are essential to mention when discussing your needs with our spring designers, be sure to include as much detail as possible to ensure we get it right the first time.  

We will ensure that we have covered everything we need to know before we start work on your spring design so that the configurations, materials, and finishes are exactly what your spring needs to work perfectly in its application. 

Alongside this, you should also consider the maintenance involved in your chosen material and finish. As discussed, plating is a finishing technique used to improve corrosion resistance, so if chosen for your springs, it will mean less maintenance is involved to ensure your spring isn’t rusting and becoming damaged. 

As there is so much to consider, and each spring and its usage are different, it’s difficult to provide general advice. The best thing to do if you’re struggling to decide on the best finish and material for your spring is to get in touch with our team. We will be more than happy to help you make these crucial decisions that will give you the best possible product for your use. 

Here at European Springs, we have been manufacturing springs for over seven decades, so we have seen the industry shape-shift and transform throughout the years and have been at the forefront of many massive changes.

Many of these industry changes have been linked to technological advancements as we move further into the digital world, and we are eager to take on each and every one. If it allows us to improve our spring manufacturing process, we are interested as we only want the best for our clients, and this starts with planning and design and goes all the way through to testing.

So, to provide an insight into what goes on behind the scenes, we’re looking into the technology behind our spring manufacturing processes and exploring how it enables us to produce our vast range of different spring types for an extensive list of industries.

Preparing and Planning for the Spring Manufacturing Process

As mentioned, the first step in spring manufacturing, no matter which spring, what size, or how many we’re manufacturing, is planning, and this is an incredibly thorough process. It starts with client discussions in which we ask many comprehensive questions about the client’s needs, wants, and requirements. This will include a discussion on the types of spring they require and often involves us looking through our Spring Catalogue to ensure we find them the right type for their use.

We will also discuss the spring materials and finishes and the number of springs they require. We can produce any amount of springs needed for our clients, from single springs to repeat bulk orders, so it’s important that our clients understand this.

After we have collected the necessary details, we can begin the manufacturing process.

Wiring and Coiling

The first manufacturing step is spring wiring, which gives springs their coiled, or spiral, shape. It is a similar process for all spring types, but we can vary it according to the specific spring’s shape. This process requires a lot of different technology, but three main machines allow us to complete wiring and coiling.

Coiling machine – Utilising a spring coiler, or a CNC spring coiler machine, our technicians can begin the process by configuring the machine with the most suitable spring type settings, most commonly torsion springs, tension springs, or compression springs. From here, a wire is fed through rollers, which draw it through guides, culminating at a coiling point. Then, the wire can be coiled back to form the spring.

Forming machine – A spring former or CNC spring former machine can be used for this step, both of which have more adaptability than coiling machines. A forming machine has six to eight tool slides, allowing it to create numerous bends and, thus, many more spring types.

Bending machine – Here at European Springs, we use computer-led CNC bending machines. This is because they offer a variety of specially-placed rollers, which can help us to create bespoke wire form designs for our clients requesting custom products.

Heat Treating

We can then move on to surface treatment. The next step is heat treating, which uses a range of different technological components. Heat treatment is an essential step, as it provides the spring with stress relief and allows it to retain its memory so that it can bounce back once any pressure has been removed.

Primarily, a conveyor belt oven is used during this process. Once the components come out of their spring machines, they fall onto a conveyor belt, which moves them along into an oven for just the right amount of time. Then, it is moved with the conveyor belt out of the oven to cool.

Between this step and the next,  many more things can happen to a spring before it is ready for coating and finishing, each depending on the type of spring being manufactured and each consisting of specialised tech. For example, spring grinders are used for grinding the ends of a spring flat when the client requests this.

Coating and Finishes

Next, it’s time for coating and finishes, which is a step that involves a lot of different technology. The finishing process is crucial, as it ensures that the spring has the most suitable coating to give it the durability it needs to be reliable in its jobs. Here are a few examples of the coating and finishing technologies we may use as part of our spring manufacturing processes:

• Shot peening. This involves spherical shots shooting at the spring, which forms compression dimples.
• Plating. Using electroplating technology, metal is applied to the spring to provide additional strength and protection.
• Powder coating. Used for preventing rust as well as for aesthetic purposes, powder coating is achieved by applying a coating to hot-drawn springs using specialised equipment.

Once the coating and finishing have been completed, the springs are ready for the client.

As you can see, a vast range of specialised tech is involved in each of our processes, used by our experienced design support technicians and incredible spring manufacturers. Because of the advanced tech we use at European Springs, we can produce an extensive range of spring types and unlimited custom designs. If you require something entirely unique or if you simply require some standard compression springs, we can provide exactly what you need.

Get in touch today for your spring design and manufacturing enquires.

The manufacturing industry is a vast sector with a range of paths to explore. Therefore, when you enter the field, it’s understandable that you may be overwhelmed by the choice of which route to go down without knowing too much about what each one entails. Because of this, it’s crucial that you thoroughly research your chosen career path to avoid disappointment and regrets over your choice further down the line.

So, to help you out, we’re looking into the career path of a manufacturing engineer. We have detailed the best ways to kickstart your fruitful career as well as what to expect in terms of progression once you have gained the necessary experience in your chosen area. So, read on to learn more and understand how European Springs can assist you in reaching your career goals.

Why Should You Consider a Career as a Manufacturing Engineer?

As industry-leading spring manufacturers, we may be biased when we say that manufacturing is a fantastic career choice that you will no doubt find your feet in quickly. Here are a few reasons why:

• You will be helping close the skills gap. The manufacturing industry has faced a long list of difficulties, especially in recent years during the early effects of Brexit and, of course, the pandemic. This led to a significant skills gap, which you can help close when you join the workforce.
• Fascinating, ever-changing career. Due to the constant improvements and advancements of technology, you will find that your work changes drastically over the years as the industry becomes more and more digitised.
• Your work will always be needed. The world will always need manufacturing engineers, the brains behind the technology, product testers, mechanics, and more. As you become more skilled in your chosen area, your work will be even more appreciated and sought-after by employees.
• Competitive pay. Because of the skills and experience required to be a successful manufacturing engineer, you can expect a competitive salary from many employers in the industry.

How to Get Started as a Manufacturing Engineer

If you are considering a career as a manufacturing engineer, one of the best ways to get into the industry is through apprenticeships. This is because they provide you with a range of skills that help set you up for a successful working life. You will learn through a variety of disciplines, such as:

• Shadowing
• Supervised work
• Studying
• Assessments

Each area is designed to help you learn, gain valuable knowledge, and get hands-on experience practising what will become your profession after necessary evaluations from senior members of staff. What’s more is that as part of an engineering apprenticeship, you earn while you learn, allowing you to bring in a wage unlike other paths such as university or placements.

The Importance of Experience

Experience is incredibly valuable in almost all industries, but especially so within the manufacturing and engineering sectors. Even if you’re apprehensive about whether it’s right for you, you will regret it in years come when employees are askingwhen employees ask about your experience, and you have little to show. This is because much of the work completed within these fields requires highly technical skills and specialised knowledge that often takes years to obtain. If you’ve decided this is the path for you, then the best thing you can do is start now.

Choosing the Best Career Path for You

You have so much to choose from when selecting your area of expertise. An extensive list of job types is available, allowing you to pick something you enjoy and are good at. For example:

• Equipment designers
• Repairs and breakdown staff
• Equipment installation
• Efficiency researchers
• Production line workers

Although all under the umbrella of manufacturing engineers, each job role listed will have entirely different working days and require various skills. For example, our custom springs designers will need to work closely with our clients to discuss their needs and have a high knowledge of spring practices and technical design to produce the best results. This differs entirely from our repairs and breakdown staff, who will need strong practical skills and a high knowledge of our machinery to quickly tend to broken parts and get the production line up and running again.

Progression as a Manufacturing Engineer

Once you are comfortable with your chosen path, there will be plenty of progression opportunities. For example, you can specialise in a chosen area, focusing solely on one part of manufacturing and engineering, allowing you to develop your technical or practical skills where you work best.

Another route to progress to is training and mentoring. You can give back to the industry and assist young engineers in kickstarting their careers as apprentices, providing shadowing opportunities, delivering lectors and talks, and assessing their progress.

Finally, you could join the research and development side of manufacturing and engineering, helping the industry progress as a whole. This could include finding digitising opportunities, testing new production methods, and discovering ways to improve productivity, supply chain issues, and more.

How Can European Springs Help You Reach Your Career Goals?

Here at European Springs, we are dedicated to helping those starting their career as manufacturing engineers reach their goals. We have an incredible apprentice scheme and take on new starters every year, giving them a chance to earn while they learn and find their feet in the industry.

Many of our apprentices stay with us and progress in their careers, taking on full-time positions at European Springs and helping develop our company for the better.

We also have fantastic job opportunities for established engineers looking for a change in direction. Please get in touch today to discuss your options and join an industry that will look after you throughout your career.