Category: News & Updates

Components in the clean energy sector play a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable future for power generation. Springs and pressings, for example, are essential in various clean energy applications, including wind turbines and solar panels.

As experienced spring manufacturers, we continuously develop spring solutions for a wide range of industries, including clean energy. Keep reading to discover the vital role springs play in this sector, along with examples of their applications and different spring types.

Spring and Pressing Manufacturing for Clean Energy

When it comes to this industry, spring manufacturers need to be constantly innovating the ways in which they create springs to keep up with the ever-evolving capabilities of renewable energy. This not only means developing manufacturing techniques adapted to the clean energy sphere but also making sure that testing processes are thorough and refined.

Springs and pressings in this industry benefit from surface treatments and coatings, especially if they are subject to harsh conditions like hydroelectric components. Elements like high winds, saltwater corrosion, or the extreme temperatures found in solar power installations can impact the longevity of a component over time. Surface treatments like plating, heat treatment, barrelling, and de-burring are just some examples of how springs and pressings can be made to last longer in these intense environments.

When designing springs for renewable energy purposes, manufacturers need to take into account factors like fluctuating loads, accounting for potential energy loss, and exposure to harsh environmental conditions. We implement state-of-the-art manufacturing processes that allow us to create reliable springs and pressings for the clean energy sector and are always looking to improve our operations to be more efficient and effective.

Applications of Springs and Pressings in Renewable Energy

Springs and pressings have a variety of applications within the renewable energy space and are designed to withstand the high demand these environments impose. Here just a few examples of where springs and pressings exist in the clean energy sector:

Wind Turbines

Wind turbines are an essential form of renewable energy, harnessing the power of natural wind to form a more sustainable energy solution. Turbines are often exposed to high wind speeds, which increase blade rotations and have a potential impact on safety and energy efficiency. Pitch-control systems are implemented to handle these high-speed winds, and spring-loaded mechanisms are found in this part of the turbine.

When experiencing regular wind conditions, springs maintain the blade angle in the correct position and if speeds begin to rise, springs adjust their position by either tightening or loosening. Not all springs built for this purpose will be designed in the same way, as manufacturers consider specific wind conditions and turbine specifications to make the spring as effective as possible. In areas with changing wind patterns, springs in wind turbines may need more motion flexibility in comparison to areas with consistent wind patterns.

Metal pressings are used in the production of parts for wind turbines, including in brackets, housings, and mounting frames. These parts need to be strong and lightweight, and metal pressing uses precise technology to shape materials to fit the specific design of the turbine.

Solar Panels

Solar panels are mechanisms that allow energy to be derived from the sun’s radiation, found in both commercial and domestic applications. Springs and pressings are found in a number of areas within solar panels, like in the solar trackers, which help the solar panels to be placed in the best orientation for sunlight exposure.

As the sun’s path moves throughout the day, solar trackers rely on springs to manage the tilt and rotation of a solar panel so that it can face the sun directly. This continual adjustment feature captures more sunlight, which results in higher energy efficiency. Moreover, when there is a low energy supply, springs can still work effectively using energy stored from active periods.

In terms of pressings, the frames that hold solar panels in place are often made using metal pressings. These frames need to be durable and weather-resistant, and the mass productions of pressings allow for these components to be made in the same shape and size.

Types of Springs Used in the Renewable Sector

A variety of spring types are found in the renewable sector. For instance, torsion springs are used in the control systems of hydroelectric power mechanisms as their torque capabilities make them adapted to providing precise adjustments for accurate and smooth operation.

Compression springs are found in a number of sustainable energy applications, such as within large-scale solar farms, within the pitch-control mechanism of wind turbines, and as shock absorbers for the turbine assemblies of hydroelectric power systems.

Additionally, tension springs are often favoured for their ability to be constructed in a smaller size, so they’re perfect for residential solar systems that contain lighter panels. They also help to assist in regulating the speed of turbines because of their ability to stretch and return to their original state, creating necessary tension that makes the turbine operate at a steady rotational speed.

Springs and pressings are essential components in the clean energy sector, enabling the efficiency and durability of renewable energy systems like wind turbines, solar panels, and hydroelectric power mechanisms. As innovation continues to drive the renewable energy industry forward, the role of springs and pressings will only become more integral to a clean energy future. To learn more about the components we design and manufacture, please feel free to get in touch.

Safety is our top priority at European Springs and Pressings, and we are committed to ensuring our team is fully prepared for any emergency. We’re proud to announce that five more team members have successfully completed their First Aid training, increasing our total number of certified first aiders to an impressive 13.
Our training approach balanced the seriousness of this essential skill with an engaging and interactive learning experience. Over the course of three days, participants underwent both practical and theoretical assessments, gaining vital life-saving techniques in an educational and enjoyable environment.

During the course, our HR director equipped the team with a wide range of first aid techniques, each capable of making a crucial difference in life-or-death situations. From performing CPR and using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to managing everyday injuries like cuts and bruises, participants gained hands-on experience in handling various emergencies.

CPR is one of the most vital skills anyone can learn – whether they’re a designated first aider or not. Knowing the correct techniques can mean the difference between life and death. Additionally, our team received practical training on using an AED, a device that can restore a normal heart rhythm during a cardiac emergency, an essential skill in critical situations.

Injuries are always a possibility, no matter the environment, so our training was vital for learning how to approach bleeds and broken bones, including catastrophic bleeds and amputations. The training covered how to handle and control bleeding of different scales, ensuring that anyone injured will get the best care as quickly as possible.

The training also covered recognising the signs of a heart attack or stroke, as knowing how to react quickly is essential given the gravity of these life-threatening conditions. Beyond accidents and injuries, the training also covered basic principles of how to handle common illnesses, so that our first aiders are on hand to help with everyday occurrences.

 

With 13 first aiders on the team, we are better prepared than ever to handle any medical emergency that may arise. We’re always looking for ways to improve our team’s skills and ensure that our workplace is a safe and supportive environment for everyone.

A huge congratulations to our newest first aiders – Justina Mickiewicz, Ionela Baciu, Ihsan Aslam, Louise Cooper and Crystal Shore!

Springs play an important role across various industrial sectors, from aerospace to oil and gas. One key application is in spring-energised seals, which offer a more reliable and durable alternative to traditional elastomer seals. These seals are essential for preventing leaks and contamination, a critical requirement for industrial equipment and machinery that must operate consistently under demanding conditions.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the function of springs in industrial seals, exploring how they work, and the different types of springs used in spring-energised seals. We’ll also discuss common applications and highlight key factors to consider when choosing the right seals for your needs.

At European Springs and Pressings, we proudly support a wide range of industries with high-quality, performance-driven products, from precision compression springs to expertly crafted metal pressings.

What is the Role of Springs in Industrial Seals?

Seals are typically made from elastomer or polyurethane materials, but springs can sometimes be incorporated to enhance their durability and reliability. Spring-energised seals are used when traditional materials fall short of an operation’s requirements or when more robust performance is needed in specific environmental conditions. These seals can also be combined with existing sealing structures to provide an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.

A spring-energised seal applies consistent pressure between the sealing element and the surface it contacts. This constant pressure ensures a secure, reliable fit, effectively preventing leaks and helping your equipment operate more efficiently for longer.

In many industrial applications, pressure levels can fluctuate, but spring-energised seals are designed to adapt to these variations. Their ability to maintain effectiveness under changing conditions makes them an ideal solution for environments where pressure shifts are common.

Types of Springs Used in Industrial Seals

There is a selection of different spring types that are found in industrial seals. One example is the garter spring, which can be found in oil seals, shaft seals, hydraulic pump seals, washing machine seals, and off-road wheel seals. These springs are made up of a thin wire that is coiled and back-wound on itself. This means that they have a strong resistance to stretching or being pulled apart.

Helical springs, like compression springs, are also found in industrial seals. These springs are designed to compress when force is applied, providing a consistent level of pressure that makes them appropriate for hydraulic seals. Torsion springs work by exerting force when twisted, making them ideal for seals that need rotational movement to generate sealing pressure. Wave springs can help provide consistent pressure in seals where space constraints are a consideration. They occupy a smaller radial space than compression or torsion springs, making them an ideal space-saving choice. Sometimes, multiple springs are used within seals depending on the application requirement, as they can provide a more uniform load at key points of the seal.

Applications of Spring-Energised Seals

Spring-energised seals have uses in a variety of industries, particularly in the oil and gas industry, aerospace, energy, and medical. For instance, in the oil and gas industry, spring-energised seals are found in the valves and manifolds of subsea equipment, in the pumps and compressors of offshore platforms, and in the couplings of transfer systems. The oil and gas industry is a prime example of how material considerations are vital for an application, as these environments experience intense weathering, harsh chemicals, and extreme temperatures.

Hydraulic systems frequently operate at high pressures, and seals are needed to prevent fluid leakages. Springs are integral in maintaining consistent pressure, even when exposed to wear over time. These seals are found in hydraulic cylinders, pumps, and other critical equipment. Rotary shaft seals are used in rotating machinery to prevent leakage of other fluids. Springs in these seals maintain the necessary contact pressure to keep fluid contained, which also protects any nearby components from damage. Wiper seals are used to keep contaminants like dirt or dust out of machinery. The spring in a wiper seal produces a secure barrier against contamination.

Considerations for Industrial Seals

Not every application is suited to utilise spring-energised seals. When determining whether to opt for a traditional polymeric seal or a spring-energised seal, consider the following factors:

• Material: The material used within a seal should be adapted to the environment in which it will operate, and this includes any corrosion-resistant or high temperature considerations. For instance, stainless steel springs are ideal for marine environments or situations where exposure to weathering, harsh chemicals, and extreme temperatures are likely. Materials like Inconel and Elgiloy are alloys that are designed to resist intense temperatures and high corrosion. For instance, Elgiloy can be used in temperatures up to 800°
• Operating Pressure: Spring-energised seals are made for high-pressure environments due to their capabilities in maintaining constant contact pressure, even if this varies. While polymeric seals can handle pressure, they may not be best for situations where pressure fluctuates.
• Longevity & Wear Resistance: Polymeric seals can be prone to wear and degradation over time, especially when exposed to constant or fluctuating pressure, friction, and temperature changes. Spring-energised seals are designed to last longer in harsh conditions, so they might be a more suitable solution for harsh operating conditions.

Spring-energised seals are used in industrial systems, offering substantial benefits like longevity and resistance against harsh conditions. Using various types of springs, these seals provide consistent pressure, adapting to fluctuations, and providing advantages to a wide range of industries. In our blog, we explore all the latest industry news and technical innovations related to springs, so be sure to delve into our other posts. For any questions about our processes or the products we stock, please feel free to get in touch.

The 10^th to the 16^th of February is National Apprenticeship Week, and here at European Springs and Pressings, we are proud to say that many of our team members began their career with us as an apprentice.

To mark the occasion, we’re celebrating the week by taking a closer look at apprenticeships at European Springs, including some stories of past and current apprentices.

Our employees are the backbone of the products and services we deliver, and that’s why we are committed to fostering the growth of the next generation of engineers.

National Apprenticeship Week

National Apprenticeship Week is an event run by partners such as the Department for Education. It helps young people explore potential career opportunities from leading brands. For 2025, the theme of the week is ‘Skills for Life’, focusing on skills that help apprentices prepare for the future and benefit businesses in the long run. Whether developing an existing skill or learning a completely new one, skills are an integral part of any career.

During this week, prospective apprentices, parents, and schools can learn more about what’s on offer in terms of apprenticeships, from live employer events to virtual apprenticeship fairs. If you or someone you know is interested in beginning their journey as an apprentice, this week is the perfect time to do so. To see what’s going on and for more National Apprenticeship Week resources, please visit the National Apprenticeships Week website.

The Benefits of Apprenticeships

The Benefits of Apprenticeships

The engineering industry is always growing and looking for new talent, making it an excellent industry to conduct your apprenticeship in. There are several different advantages to completing an apprenticeship, here are just a few:

• Blend of Learning Styles: When completing an apprenticeship, you’ll be exposed to a variety of different teaching styles. This can be either classroom-based or learning hands-on, which is great for developing your qualifications and getting to grips with practical skills.
• Get Paid for Learning: One of the main incentives for completing an apprenticeship is earning while you’re learning. This pay will be dependent on the work you’re doing, your age, and how far you are along in your training.
• Career Advancement: In general, apprentices complete their training between 1 and 4 years to become fully qualified. Often, apprentices will be offered a full-time role in the organisation they’ve been training with, which can be a great way to progress in your career.
• Mentorship: As an apprentice, you’ll learn from some of the best in the business. Mentors can share their wisdom with you, meaning that you’re learning from individuals who have been in your position before.

Training apprentices not only offers benefits for those training but also for businesses. We have found that it is a much more worthwhile investment to train, upskill, or reskill our team rather than conducting ongoing recruitment. Within the engineering industry, there is always the need for new talent and fresh perspectives, making it an important programme for organisations to provide.

Apprenticeships at European Springs and Pressings

At European Springs, we take on new apprentices each year and have developed an apprenticeship program that provides both qualifications and practical experience. When completing your apprenticeship with European Springs, here’s what day-to-day life can look like:

• Studying: It’s important to know both the physical and theoretical aspects of this job. You may spend a few days a week at college or in-house learning more about the industry and skills with your fellow apprentices.
• Shadowing: We’re lucky to have an experienced team that are experts in their field. You will be taught by different engineers and will have the opportunity to ask questions to expand your learning.
• Supervised Work: As you learn more about our industry and how we work, you’ll get the chance to complete work under the supervision of our team. This will give you the opportunity to try out machines and equipment for yourself with insightful feedback.
• Assessment: Your supervisor will conduct regular check-ins to see how you’re progressing and will assess your knowledge and skills through the form of practical exams and coursework. 

  

Our Apprentices: Past and Present

We are extremely proud of the apprentices who have joined us over the years, here’s a brief look at our past apprentices and where they are now:

Alan Lowing – Alan began his apprenticeship in September 2015 and has since completed his BTEC and NVQ in manufacturing engineering, joining our wire forming department. Alan has been recently promoted to wire technical engineer, where he holds more responsibility as the subject matter expert in the department.

Sami Hamache – Sami started his apprenticeship in July 2022 and has gained his BTEC and NVQs since. Sami works in our production department as a small order spring maker and setter. We are proud to have Sami as part of the team, and he continues to learn new skills and progress in his speciality.

Brandon Smith – Brandon joined as an apprentice in September 2018, completing his BTEC and NVQ and continuing onto our Press Shop in 2019. He worked for two years as a press setter, and his exceptional performance meant he was chosen to join the Toolroom as a trainee toolmaker. Brandon is committed to continual progression and was enrolled in a HNC program in 2023 to develop his skills.

Recently, we’ve also brought three new apprentices onboard at European Springs: Buddy Kempster, Eltayeb Ahmed, and Kyle Singh. We are excited to have these new members as part of the team as they embark on achieving their BTEC and NVQ qualifications and shadowing different members of the company.

As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we remain committed to providing valuable opportunities for apprentices to grow, learn, and succeed. We look forward to continuing our work with the next generation of talent and supporting their journey every step of the way. If you’re ready to take the first step, consider joining our team and making your mark in the engineering world.

The performance and longevity of a spring depend not only on its quality but also on proper maintenance and regular cleaning. Even a high-quality spring will degrade over time without proper care. By implementing the right maintenance practices, you can prevent deformation and ensure that you get the most out of your product.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning and maintaining springs. From essential maintenance tips to a step-by-step cleaning guide, we’ve got you covered.

The Importance of Cleaning and Maintenance

All our springs and pressings are made from high-quality materials using advanced manufacturing processes, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. However, cleaning and regular maintenance are important to keep your springs working excellently once implemented into your application.

Springs endure heavy loads and extreme forces, leading to repeated stress that can cause deformation, especially if overloaded. Additionally, dust, dirt, and grease can accumulate over time, gradually reducing efficiency. Regular cleaning helps prevent these issues and extends the lifespan of your springs.

Moreover, carrying out regular checks and maintenance on your springs helps identify any potential problems before they lead to more significant issues. By catching issues early, necessary repair takes place, and ultimately your mechanism functions as best as possible.

In many industries, like food preparation or healthcare, there are strict regulations in place regarding the hygiene of different components like springs and stampings, so it’s vital for businesses to adhere to these.

How to Maintain Springs

If you want to make sure that your springs are working as they should be and that they will continue to deliver exceptional results, there are certain maintenance practices to keep in place:

• Check the Conditions: Different Spring types and materials are designed for specific environments. Exposure to unsuitable conditions, such as extreme temperatures, moisture, or chemicals, can compromise performance. Stainless steel springs are particularly resistant to harsh environments, so if your spring is made from a less durable material, it may require replacement.
• Regular Inspections: Take the time to regularly inspect your springs for any wear and damage. When performing an inspection, check for any visible wear, corrosion, deformation, or bending in the spring. You may also wish to measure the spring length, diameter, and wire size to make sure the springs are managing the load and their environment correctly.
• Load Testing: Springs must withstand their designated load to prevent deformation or failure. Regularly check that they are not being overloaded and that they comply with the manufacturer’s specifications to maintain reliability and longevity.
• Documenting Maintenance: Maintain a record of all inspections, repairs, and replacements. Consistent documentation helps track wear over time, identify recurring issues, and determine when a spring needs replacing.

These are just a few maintenance procedures to implement to ensure that your springs are working as they should be. Introducing these practices should help to identify how regular inspections and cleaning need to be taking place, such as daily, weekly, or monthly.

How to Clean Your Springs

Part of the maintenance procedure must include regular and thorough spring cleaning. However, springs can often be small components with complex structures, so having the correct steps to clean them is vital. Here is a brief tutorial for cleaning your springs:

1. Using a small brush, gently remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the spring, ensuring that you get into all the coils and grooves.
2. Start to wash the springs with a bucket of soap and water and pay close attention to the coils and hard-to-reach areas.
3. Rinse the spring thoroughly to remove any remaining soap and dry the spring using a microfibre cloth. Make sure that the spring is fully dry before finishing, as any remaining liquid has the potential to cause rusting.
4. If desired, lightly lubricate the spring using an approved spring lubricant. Be sure not to over-lubricate, as too much oil can cause buildup on the spring.

When cleaning, avoid using harsh chemicals and handle them gently so that they don’t experience any wear during the cleaning process.

Cleaning and maintaining high-performance springs is crucial for their longevity and efficiency. By conducting regular inspections, cleaning, and adhering to proper maintenance practices, you ensure that springs and pressings perform as they should, preventing costly repairs later on. It’s also important to select a springs manufacturer that uses high-quality materials and manufacturing, to reduce the chance of deformation and spring failure. To learn more about how we make our springs, please get in touch.

At European Springs and Pressings, we are dedicated not only to delivering high-quality products but also to ensuring they are manufactured ethically and sustainably. We hold ourselves to the highest of standards, ensuring our manufacturing processes are free from exploitation, harmful labour practices, and unethical conduct.

Read on to discover more about our commitment to ethical manufacturing and the steps we take to uphold our modern slavery statement.

What is Ethical Manufacturing?

Ethical manufacturing is an approach to manufacturing processes that prioritise health and wellbeing within all those involved. It focusses on fairness, sustainability, and an overall respect for human rights. This applies to all aspects of our business, from initial designs to end products, we want to ensure that we are operating in the best interest of our staff.

We believe that ethical manufacturing not only enhances the wellbeing of our employees but also supports the long-term success of our business. A positive work environment means greater productivity and encourages employees to remain with the company for the long term. By investing in our staff and their wellbeing, we ensure the delivery of high-quality results, created with the utmost ethical care.

The Importance of the Modern Slavery Statement

A modern slavery statement is a legal requirement for businesses that meet certain size criteria in the UK, and it’s for organisations to show that they are taking active steps to eliminate modern slavery within their operations and supply chains. The UK Modern Slavery Act of 2015 requires businesses with an annual turnover of 36 million or more to publish an annual statement that outlines the steps they are taking to address slavery and human trafficking within their business operations.

Modern slavery is a serious issue that currently affects almost 50 million people worldwide. Anti-Slavery International defines modern slavery as when an individual is exploited by others, for personal or commercial gain. The modern slavery statement is a clear declaration of the steps we take to both identify and prevent slavery and forced labour. It moreover allows us to continually improve our manufacturing processes, to ensure all of our suppliers and partners adhere to ethical practices.

How We Comply with the UK Modern Slavery Act

We implement proactive measures within our business or supply chain to make sure that modern slavery does not exist at any stage of our operations. We are continuously improving and reviewing our practices to ensure complete compliance, and we take this matter incredibly seriously. Here are some of the measures we have introduced:

• We have a rigorous due diligence process in place to monitor our suppliers and business partners to ensure that they are complying with modern slavery regulations, and that they are carrying out due diligence within their own supply chains.
• Our suppliers are required to confirm that their employees are given good working conditions, treated fairly, and are paid in accordance with national minimums.
• We also require confirmation from our suppliers that all employees are voluntarily in employment, that employers do not keep original copies of identity documents, and that employees are free to leave work as they wish.
• Our modern slavery statement is updated annually, and we encourage open communication regarding any potential risks or issues within our supply chain. This means we provide clear channels for our employees, suppliers, and partners to raise any issues confidentially.
• We provide regular staff training on recognising the signs of modern slavery and make sure that they are fully briefed on how to report concerns.

The Made in Britain certification is a symbol of trust, and it assures customers that our products are manufactured responsibly, with the highest regard for ethical labour practices. We ensure that our supply chain is traceable and accountable, which allows us to track any risks of unethical practices, including that of modern slavery.

At European Springs, we are committed to bringing you high quality products, that are manufactured ethically and sustainably. We take continuous measures to uphold and update our modern slavery statement where necessary, so that you can be sure your products are made in the most ethical way possible, and do not originate from processes that engage forced labour. You can read our full modern slavery statement here should you require further information.