Our experience as specialist spring manufacturers has seen us create springs for numerous industries. Some of the sectors include Defence, Rail, Oil and Gas, and the Medical industry, but this isn’t an exhausted list, and you may be surprised at some of the other areas we provide our services for. Interestingly, one of these is the music industry – our springs have been used for a large variety of instruments and musical equipment.
As this is one of the lesser-known industries we work for, we thought we would dedicate this blog to discussing the many uses of springs within the music industry and why they are important.

Types of Spring used in the Music Industry

Springs are essential within music and are found in a variety of different instruments and associated equipment. For example, guitars and pianos both require music wire springs to work correctly and feature the most common type of spring you’ll find in the industry, compression springs. In addition, you will see wave springs within microphones and other musical equipment. The most popular wire form in the music industry has to be every child’s favourite musical instrument, the triangle.

Compression Springs and their Importance Within Music

Compression springs are the most popular form of spring found in the music industry. The springs in musical instruments are usually from music wire. Music wire is often made from high carbon steel, making the springs perfect for high-stress situations while playing musical instruments. In addition, music wire can handle multiple bends due to its consistent tensile strength, which is well suited to compression spring manufacturing.

The tensile strength of music wire is just one of the many benefits of using this material for compression springs; it also has high elasticity and flexibility. As a result, music wire deals with repeated heavy loads while maintaining its shape, needed for musical instruments. In addition, the high carbon steel is more affordable than other compression spring materials, making it better for lower quantity products.
In electric guitars, you will find music wire compression springs within the casing of the guitar, balancing out the strain which occurs when the guitar strings are pulled on. These springs are known as tremolo springs, and they exist so that the guitar can be played without hindrance. In addition, they allow the guitar’s bridge to return to its resting position once the strings are plucked.
Pianos have springs under the keys; these compression springs return the keys to their original position once they are pressed.

Wire Forms and Their Tie to Music

Wire forms have many uses, meaning they are often found without even looking, so it’s only natural that it won’t take long to see their connection to the music industry. Wire Forms are commonly used during headset manufacturing, headsets found in recording studios across the country. There have been wire forms used in manufacturing guitar pedals, in the design of a guitar pick in the US, and musical instrument sheet stands. The CNC wire forming technique can also produce a triangle musical instrument, a firm favourite in many primary school music classes. There are endless possibilities for creating objects using a wire form technique.

Wave Springs and Their Use by Famous Musicians

When space is at a premium, wave springs are the go-to spring. Typically, you will find wave springs in load-bearing devices; they are commonly found in valves, electrical connectors and multi-tooth cutters. As wave spring manufacturers, we have designed this type of spring for various uses, and one benefit of a wave spring is to protect the electronics within a microphone.
Popular UK Manufacturer Aston Microphones first used a crest-to-crest wave spring to combine practicality and aesthetics. The visual appearance of the spring and the ease of custom design in wave springs made them perfect for the production of their first microphone. By having a wave spring as the outer core of the microphone, there is a 360-degree shell to support the more fragile electronics within it. In addition, wave springs offer a great deal of flexibility, so should a singer drop the microphone, they can straighten it quickly to repair any distortion. The company’s microphones have been used by massive household names like Noel Gallagher and Madona, so it’s pretty cool to know that they rely on the genius design of wave springs for their tools, just as many manufacturers do.

Springs for Your Musical Applications from European Springs

As a leading spring manufacturers in the UK, European Springs has manufactured a range of springs over the years. We can create springs to meet every need within the music industry, from components for the instruments themselves to accessories that help keep the industry running. If you believe we can help with your next project within the music industry or to speak to our team of spring and wire form manufacturers about your latest project, get in touch with us directly at info.bec@europeansprings.com, we will be happy to help.

The manufacturing industry is constantly changing. With adaptations to reduce carbon footprints and advancements in technology, the sector is continuously tested and expected to keep up with these changes. Often, it’s the employer’s responsibility to ensure that their workers have the latest relevant training.

That is why, in today’s blog, we’re looking into the benefits of upskilling your workforce. First, we will explore what upskilling is and discuss the various advantages this process can bring to your employees and your company.

As leading spring manufacturers in the UK, we have a plethora of knowledge on upskilling within the manufacturing industry. We are proud to have worked with and alongside many apprentices over the years, providing them with the skills and experience they needed to have a successful career in engineering and manufacturing. To learn more and discover how you can get involved with European Springs, please don’t hesitate to get in touch – we are always more than happy to offer our assistance and expert advice.

What Is Upskilling?

First of all, it’s essential to understand what upskilling means. At first glance, some may believe it is the idea of basic training, but it’s much more than that.

Upskilling is essentially continuous learning, not just an occasional training course, for example. Workplaces will provide various training programs and offer a choice of development opportunities to widen their employees’ abilities and reduce skill gaps. Often, an upskilling strategy is put in place to improve the skills required by employees to complete their current job and expand their skill sets, allowing them to advance in their roles. Additionally, this will enable them to move around the company and take on new challenges. In recent times, employers have utilised upskilling to close the digital gap and ensure that employees are up to speed with the latest technology in the manufacturing field.

Some examples of upskilling include but are not limited to:

Formal education such as degrees and apprenticeship schemes
Internal mentoring and shadowing programs
Virtual or online courses

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of upskilling.

Skills and Service Development

Of course, the main benefit of upskilling is that your employees will get the chance to develop their skills. This is great for everyone involved – workers get to learn something new and employers cultivate a workforce that is up-to-date with the latest training and ready to take on the next challenge. In addition, through upskilling, your employees will come to understand that the manufacturing industry is everchanging. By continuously upskilling your workers, you’re teaching them to be aware of adaptions to their working day in line with technology upgrades and industry standards.

Employee Motivation

Another fantastic benefit of upskilling is the motivation it will give your employees. Through upskilling, you engage your workers and encourage them to excel in their current role whilst potentially offering them other opportunities in the company. When an employee feels demotivated and stuck in their position, unable to see where it leads them, they are much more likely to leave the company. By upskilling and ensuring they have plenty of opportunities, there is a much higher chance of employee loyalty, meaning they will remain with the company for longer. Motivated and happy employees are more likely to enjoy their job, so as their employer, you must be doing what you can to guarantee this.

Increased Productivity

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that upskilling leads to increased productivity in the workplace. As employees are happy, motivated, and satisfied with their role, they are more likely to succeed. This, of course, directly affects the company’s overall productivity and triumph.

By gaining knowledge, skills, and experience in multiple areas, they will become more confident and complete given tasks successfully and to a higher standard. Additionally, these extra skills learnt through training mean less time is spent researching and learning in the long term. If a specific task needs some training, implementing upskilling for the entire workforce will benefit you as the employer. Everyone will then have the knowledge and skills required to complete the task. And more time available means a more productive workforce.

Customer Satisfaction

When we look at the benefits explained above, it is clear that each one leads to customer satisfaction. If your workforce has a team of employees with a high and developed skillset, there is a higher chance they will be able to satisfy your customer’s needs. If your employees are happy and motivated, they will offer better customer service than workers who are unsatisfied with their job and demotivated by their lack of opportunities. A productive workforce means tasks will be completed quickly and to a high standard, which is fantastic for customers.

There is no better time than now to begin upskilling your team. We hope this blog has been helpful, but these are only some of the benefits on a long list of reasons to develop your employee’s skills and services. To stay updated with the latest industry news, please head over to our blog, where we post regular content for industry professionals, apprentices, customers, and clients. It is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning more about the fascinating and ever-changing world of manufacturing. Finally, please feel free to contact us with any questions about our spring manufacturer services including tension springs, torsion springs and die springs, and ask for our advice on upskilling your company.

As the manufacturing landscape continues to change and adapt to the current climate, it becomes increasingly apparent that university isn’t the only route to a successful career in engineering. Therefore, your workforce needs to be adaptable and think critically about not only programming and tools but digital processes and new technologies.

Here at European Springs & Pressings, we take on apprentices every year, and there are many benefits to having this development plan in place. It helps us stay competitive in our sector, and the time we spend upskilling, training and reskilling is a much more valuable investment than an ongoing recruitment drive.

This blog focuses on engineering apprenticeships, what’s involved, the increased demand for engineers, and why apprenticeships are beneficial to the industry.

What is an Engineering Apprenticeship?

Engineering apprenticeships are courses that provide apprentices with the opportunity to gain the knowledge, skills, and experience of a qualified engineer. The program is typically broken down into modules or skills which combine classroom instruction and on-the-job training.

Gain Hands-on Experience

Apprentices learn trade skills from the more experienced staff members and learn to take responsibility and accountability for day-to-day tasks. They are a fantastic addition to your workforce as they can bring a fresh perspective on current processes and operations within your business. Here are a couple of examples of what to expect when you’re training to be an engineer:

Shadowing – qualified engineers will teach you different aspects and methods of completing their work through shadowing. You’ll be able to learn first-hand the correct way to do things and ask questions in real-time.
Supervised Work – gradually, you will be able to complete tasks under supervision, grow your confidence and take responsibility for key aspects of projects. In addition, supervisors will provide you with clear instructions and feedback on these tasks.
Studying – apprenticeships will give you access to the physical nature of the job, as well as classroom-based theory surrounding the topic. This could be a couple of days a week at college or in-house with your fellow coursemates.
Assessment – for the duration of the apprenticeship, you will have a supervisor who will check in regularly and answer any questions you may have. Your supervisor will be responsible for assessing your skills and knowledge on the job, and you will also complete practical exams and coursework throughout the program.

Earn While You Learn

Throughout the apprenticeship training programme, you will be working toward gaining a nationally recognised qualification. The company will pay you for the work you complete, and the amount will depend on your age and how long you have been training. Typically, apprentices can take between 1-4 years to become fully qualified (depending on prior experience and knowledge of engineering).

Our Managing Director Stuart McSheehy speaks about the importance of our apprenticeships: “not only is this a fantastic achievement for personal development, but it also inspires the next generation of engineers and spring makers. With the challenges of 2020 behind us, we are all very proud to present our latest apprentices with their qualifications.”

Take a look at the stories of our most recent apprentices who have successfully achieved either CITY & GUILDS or BTEC qualifications following a nationally recognised manufacturing apprenticeship framework.

The Increased Demand for Engineers

Our sector is facing the largest skills gap in over 30 years. As pressing manufacturers, we have to act and create both short and long term solutions to the problem. The skills gap is widening due to employees retiring faster than the rate of new talent joining the industry.

Businesses with experienced workforces should spend time upskilling and retraining. Automating basic processes will also give you the option to expand in areas such as software and machine learning development. However, it’s important to consider that while investing in this equipment is a positive move, you should also focus on training employees with the skills needed to operate new machinery.

European Springs Developing Engineers for the Future

As leading spring manufacturers, we prioritise upskilling our workforce as it allows us to build on new and existing team skills, increase productivity, and streamline work processes. When you spend time identifying gaps within your team, you can use the data to plan for development, taking into account the equipment or resources you need.

Not only can you inspire the next generation of manufacturers with attractive apprenticeship opportunities, but you can highlight the need for skilled young people in our industry. If you would like any more information about any of the services or products including tension springs, compression springs and disc springs that we provide, contact European Springs with your enquiry. Our experienced team will be happy to answer your questions.

We design and manufacture a complete selection of constant force springs that can be used for various applications, across virtually every industry, from healthcare to aerospace and within general household items.

This blog will look at what a constant force spring is, common applications and how we design these widely used mechanisms.

What is a Constant Force Spring?

Constant force springs (or constant torque springs) get their name because their force of motion is at constant exertion. The load is determined by the width and thickness of the material and the diameter of the coil.

The tightly wound roll works in a linear movement and does not obey Hooke’s law (F=kX) but constantly produces force throughout its deflection.

These springs provide a smooth range of motion and a constant load in extending or retracting. The full load of the spring is reached after being deflected to a length equal to 1.25 times its diameter and it can sustain a constant force regardless of the extension length.

Constant force springs can be fitted in a variety of ways and extended either partly or completely, which allows them to be used for a range of applications because of the lack of limitations on extension speed and acceleration.

Fitting a Constant Force Spring

The fitting can be completed in a number of ways. For long extensions, the spring must be laterally guided to prevent movement in a sideways direction — suitable play on each side is 0.5 – 1.5 mm.

When fitting on a bearing or conduit, the spring can be located using its own force providing that sufficient strip length remains on the bearing. If there is no operating extension limit in the application, we recommend that a screw or rivet is used to secure the inner end of the spring.

Our standard springs and slide bearings are normally supplied separately. Fitting is done by loosening the outer end of the spring and winding it onto the bearing (securing it if necessary), after which the complete spring is wound onto the bearing.

Constant Force Spring Applications

A constant force spring is an excellent device for applications where a constant load is required. The many benefits of these springs make them suitable for a number of applications.

The spring itself has a small space requirement which allows it to provide a smooth range of motion. With no inertia to overcome, constant force springs are very versatile and can mount to existing hardware, as well as create a counterbalancing effect.

Constant force springs are widely used across the medical and healthcare industries to improve surgical devices. They are also used regularly in aviation to deploy and retract aircraft doors and efficiently counterbalance aeroplane windows.

You will also find constant force springs in many day-to-day applications, such as door closers, hairdryers, gym equipment, electric motors, cabinet furniture components and much more.

Innovative Design and Technology

We’ve been designing springs for over 70 years, and so our range is exceptionally varied and technologically advanced. Besides our standard range, we can provide customised solutions using design capabilities that feature our advanced, proprietary spring design software.

Our software package has been developed in-house and we can simulate any type of application, which enables us to calculate the force required for your particular design.

Our regular constant force springs are wrapped on a drum with the free end attached to the loading force. However, your preferred mounting method will impact the way we design your spring.

Our skilled design team can help by determining a suitable method to rule out any problems, even if you haven’t decided upon the exact specifications.

As an experienced spring manufacturer, we have the expertise to create a whole host of springs perfect for any application within any industry.

Take a look at our stock catalogue for more information on our range of springs and forms. Alternatively, get in touch with us directly at info.bec@oldeuropeansprings.sqsite.co.uk, we’d love to hear from you.

We’re delighted to announce that four budding engineers have firmly developed their careers by achieving industry-recognised qualifications at European Springs & Pressings.

As industry-leading spring manufacturers, investing in the future of manufacturing is important to us. Our next generation of engineers has successfully achieved either CITY & GUILDS or BTEC qualifications following a nationally recognised manufacturing apprenticeship framework.

Stuart McSheehy, Managing Director of European Springs & Pressings, says, “The value of apprenticeships can never be underestimated. Training the next generation of our people is crucial to ensure the business has the skills in its people for the future”.

Stuart McSheehy, Managing Director of European Springs & Pressings, presenting our apprentices with their certificates.

Celebrating our Apprentices

Tyler Stevens

Tyler joined us in 2013 as a Production Operator at the age of 17. Having worked for two years in this role, Tyler enjoyed the challenges he faced at European Springs but wanted to develop and improve his skills. He decided to take a pay cut and became an apprentice at the age of 19.

The apprenticeship has helped boost his self-confidence and has developed his skills significantly. Tyler did admit that he found the studying difficult, but his motivation to succeed saw him achieve his goal in April 2021.

Tyler is a significant member of our Small Order Springmaker team, working on complex projects, often with the Technical Director.

Well done to Tyler on your ADVANCED LEVEL APPRENTICESHIP IN ENGINEERING MANUFACTURE WITH CITY & GUILDS LEVEL 3 AND NVQ LEVEL 3.

Alan Lowing

Alan started in 2015, at the age of 18, having already been through sixth form at school. He spent time working in each department during his initial training but developed a specific interest in wire forming.

While completing his studies in performing engineering operations, he became heavily involved in the productionisation of a new FMU4. Although Alan’s apprenticeship journey has been longer due to his initial studies, he managed to complete his apprenticeship in 2020 whilst working full time. Alan is currently an essential member of the wireforming team and principal setter for the FMU4.

A huge congratulations to Alan on being awarded an ADVANCED LEVEL APPRENTICESHIP IN ENGINEERING MANUFACTURE WITH BTEC LEVEL 3 AND NVQ LEVEL 3.

Rob Jenkins

Rob started in 2016 at the age of 19 and spent time working in each department. He developed a real passion for the Press Shop — probably because it had a good rhythm and was loud, like the music his band makes!

Having developed significant skills in this area, Rob has become heavily involved in Bruderer presses and stamping technologies. He is an instrumental part of the Press Shop team in the layout and commissioning of the new press shop extension.

Rob managed his studies whilst building a life with his partner and recently achieved his goal of being awarded an ADVANCED LEVEL APPRENTICESHIP IN ENGINEERING MANUFACTURE WITH BTEC LEVEL 3 AND NVQ LEVEL 3. Congratulations Rob!

Tom Hever

Tom joined us in 2016, straight from school at the age of 16. Initially, he spent time working in each department during his training but developed an interest in toolmaking, where he liked the order and accuracy of the work.

Having developed a wide range of skills in this area, Tom spent time working on tool repair and assembly. Sticking to his studies, at the end of 2020, Tom achieved his goal of being awarded an ADVANCED LEVEL APPRENTICESHIP IN ENGINEERING MANUFACTURE WITH BTEC LEVEL 3 AND NVQ LEVEL 3. Well done, Tom!

Tom is currently honing his skills and experience on the EDM machines as a trusted member of the toolmaking team.

Our Managing Director Stuart McSheehy speaks about the importance of our apprenticeships, saying that “not only is this a fantastic achievement for personal development it also inspires the next generation of engineers and spring makers. With the challenges of 2020 behind us we are all very proud to present our latest apprentices with their qualifications.”

By welcoming apprentices every year, we see the benefits of having a development plan in place, and many of our qualified apprentices continue to develop their skills as spring technicians.

It’s essential to strengthen our knowledge and introduce more diverse skillsets into our workplace, including preparing for future growth within manufacturing.

If you’d like to discuss the potential of joining our team or then please get in touch with our friendly team.

At European Springs & Pressings, we have found that the automotive industry is one of the sectors where our products have the widest application. Custom springs are used frequently for building new cars, in everything from disk brakes to suspension and even in your steering wheel.

Continuing our ‘springs in industry’ series, we’d like to look at how springs and pressings are used in the automotive sector, particularly in Formula 1 cars.

Racing Cars

Springs and pressings are one of the most important components in racing cars. Each Formula 1 car is carefully crafted to give each vehicle optimal performance. In fact, it is estimated that an F1 car consists of 16,000 parts, of which only 10 percent are carried over year on year (Formula1.com).

The build of the racecar takes into account the speed, cornering ability, grip and downforce. All of these elements are aided and improved by experienced engineering, incredible technology and high-quality components.

Disk Brakes

You wouldn’t necessarily associate F1 driving with braking, but disk brakes are implemented to stop the cars safely when travelling at high speeds.

Almost every car currently in production, including commercial vehicles, uses disc brakes, and they have proven to be more effective than traditional ‘drum’ style brakes.

In F1 cars, disc brakes are fitted with rotating discs that are attached to the wheels and then squeezed between the brake pads — this creates a force that helps to slow the car down or bring it to a complete stop.

Pull-rod and Push-rod Front Suspension

Pull-rods were first brought into F1 in the 70s running from the outer end of the upper wishbones diagonally to the lower edge of the chassis. They pull on a rocker that operates the damper spring, alleviating any harsh impacts or uneven surfaces the course may entail.

This suspension system ensures a strong mechanical grip as the pull-rods make the car’s nose lower, thus lowering the height of the centre of gravity and improving handling.

Most F1 cars now use push-rods as they are easier to install and fit nicely under the vehicle’s low nose. The push-rods flex with the wheels as they encounter any bumps, providing better aerodynamics for a more streamlined race.

The latter is more widely used by teams competing in Formula 1 today due to the vast difference in fitting; push-rods are a lot easier to install.

For both suspension methods, the spring is essential due to the absorption of shock. Energy is transferred with the help of a sound suspension system and can significantly impact the team, regardless of driver skill.

Springs in Suspension

Torsion bars, leaf, coil and air springs are among the different types of springs used in cars.

Most modern vehicles are fitted with standard coil springs made of steel. High-quality suspension systems are created by a strong spring absorbing the shock forces while driving on uneven roads.

To see our full range of springs used in various industries, please check out our brochure now.

With over 70 years of experience as a spring manufacturer, we have the expertise and machinery to create a whole host of springs perfect for any application within any industry.

If you would like any more information about any of our products or services, please contact our friendly team here at European Springs.

Category: Engineering