Author: European Springs Web Team

At European Springs Ireland, we are fortunate enough to work closely with businesses and private manufacturers across a wide range of industries, including the aerospace sector.

With our extensive experience in precision engineering combined with our commitment to quality, we are the trusted partner for top aerospace manufacturers worldwide. Our state-of-the-art facilities and highly skilled engineers enable us to design and manufacture springs that meet the strictest industry standards.

So, join us as we delve into the world of springs in aerospace engineering and discover how these small yet mighty components contribute to the safety and performance of aircraft, elevating the industry to new heights.

Types of Springs Used in Aerospace Applications

Springs are used in a wide range of applications in the aerospace industry, from operating critical flight controls to supporting payloads during launch and landing. The most common types of springs used in aerospace applications include:

• Compression springs are typically used to support and dampen aircraft landing gear.
• Tension springs are commonly used in engine systems for tension on belts and cables.
• Torsion springs are used in many flight control systems, providing torque to control surfaces during flight.

Please note this is not an exhaustive list; many other spring types can be used in aerospace applications. At European Springs Ireland, we offer an extensive range of spring types, but we also provide custom spring manufacturing, so even if you can’t see what you need for your project on our website, we’re sure to be able to supply you with the solution.

Spring Applications in Aircraft Structures

There are a wide variety of different spring applications in aircraft structures, such as:

• Landing Gear. Springs are used in the landing gear system to absorb the impact forces during landing and provide a cushioning effect. They help to ensure a smooth landing and absorb the shock of touchdown.
• Control Surfaces. They are also utilised in the control surfaces of an aircraft, such as ailerons, elevators, and rudders, to provide the necessary mechanical force for manoeuvrability. Springs assist in maintaining the desired position and responsiveness of these surfaces.
• Flap Systems. Different spring types are employed in aircraft flap systems to extend and retract the flaps. Flaps are movable surfaces located on the wings that increase lift during takeoff and landing, and springs help control the flaps’ movement and position.

We understand that no two spring applications are the same, so our team is well-equipped with industry knowledge to design and manufacture custom springs to suit your aerospace project, no matter what it entails.

Importance of Spring Design and Manufacturing

The spring manufacturing process for products used in aerospace applications requires precision, expertise, and attention to detail. This is because springs used in aerospace applications must withstand extreme temperatures, high speeds, and vibration while maintaining their shape and functionality.

Using substandard or poorly designed springs in aerospace applications can have disastrous consequences, making it essential to work with a trusted and experienced manufacturer like ourselves. With our years of industry knowledge, commitment to quality, and state-of-the-art equipment, we can produce high-performance springs that meet the rigorous demands of the aerospace industry. Our spring design and manufacturing expertise allow us to provide our clients with solutions that meet their technical requirements and exceed their expectations in terms of reliability, durability, and precision.

Challenges and Requirements for Aerospace Springs

The challenges and requirements for aerospace springs are significant, given the critical role that these components play in flight safety. For example, aerospace springs must be designed to meet strict safety standards and, as mentioned, must be capable of withstanding extreme conditions without failure. The materials used in aerospace springs must be lightweight, heat-resistant, and corrosion-resistant while maintaining their strength and durability.

Because of this, there is a significant need for custom aerospace springs in order to meet specific application requirements. At European Springs, we work closely with our clients to design and manufacture bespoke springs that meet their exact specifications and requirements.

Future Trends and Innovations in Aerospace Springs

The aerospace industry is continually evolving, and new trends and innovations in aerospace springs are emerging. One of the most remarkable trends is the use of composite materials in aerospace springs, providing lightweight and durable components that can withstand high temperatures and vibration.

Another trend is the use of 3D printing technology in aerospace spring manufacturing, allowing for the creation of more intricate and complex shapes that were previously impossible to produce. The use of 3D printing also enables rapid prototyping and faster production times, allowing for quicker turnaround times in aerospace projects.

Our team are proud to be a leading supplier of top-quality aerospace springs, catering to a global audience of professionals seeking reliable and innovative solutions.

To get started on your aerospace project, please get in touch today; we look forward to providing you with the solution you need.

The versatility of pressings and stampings is crucial in several industries. Therefore, manufacturers must meet diverse design requirements and create customised solutions for different applications by utilising various pressings and stampings. This flexibility enables faster production, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability to changing market demands.

As an experienced stamping and pressing company, we appreciate the industry’s high demand, which is why we specialise in producing precision-focused bespoke solutions for various industries using the latest technologies.

So, in this blog post, we’re taking a look into the versatile world of pressings and stampings, exploring the various materials and designs we can produce, as well as their applications in different industries.

Types of Pressings and Stampings

Pressings and stampings are metal components made using forming processes. These methods offer many possibilities and are known for their ability to create lightweight and complex shapes. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of pressings and stampings:

• Deep-Drawn Components. These components are produced by drawing sheet metal into a die, resulting in parts with deep, hollow shapes.
• Multi-Slide Components. This method uses multiple slides to create intricate shapes and highly precise parts.
• Progressive Die Stamping. Progressive die stamping involves a series of sequential stamping operations performed on a single press, allowing multiple features to be created in one pass of the metal strip.
• Fine Blanking. Fine blanking is a precise and high-quality process that combines the characteristics of stamping and machining. It produces components with exceptional accuracy and exceptional edge quality.
• Coining. Coining is a precise metal forming process that applies high compressive forces to shape metal parts with tight tolerances and smooth surfaces.

Each of our stampings and pressings types is designed to meet different application requirements. For instance, fine blanking is ideal when very high precision and accuracy are crucial.

Applications of Pressings and Stampings in Various Industries

A long list of industries uses pressings and stampings due to their versatility and reliability; let’s explore some of their applications:

Aerospace

In the aerospace engineering industry, where high-quality and lightweight components are essential, pressings and stampings play a critical role. They can be found in engine components, brackets, casings, and much more. By leveraging the precision of pressings and stampings, the aerospace industry achieves superior performance while reducing weight.

Automotive

The automotive industry extensively uses Pressings and stampings to create efficient and lightweight components. Vehicle body panels, interior components, flexible fuel tanks, and exhaust components are just a few examples of how pressings and stampings enhance the performance and functionality of automobiles. They contribute to reducing fuel consumption and emissions, improving sustainability in the automotive industry.

Construction

Businesses in the construction industry use pressings and stampings in various applications, for example, in:

• Drain covers
• Hinges
• Door handles
• Roofing panels
• Safety barriers

Pressings and stampings provide the durability and strength required to withstand demanding conditions, and their versatility allows for customised designs that cater to the specific needs of every project.

Electronics

The electronics industry relies on the precision and intricate shapes of pressings and stampings. For example, electronic manufacturers use these components to produce switches, connectors, and heat sinks. The small size and design flexibility of pressings and stampings make them ideal for meeting the demands of the rapidly evolving electronics industry.

Benefits of Using Pressings and Stampings in Manufacturing

Integrating pressings and stampings into your manufacturing processes offers several benefits; such as:

• Cost-Effectiveness. One of the major advantages of using pressings and stampings is their cost-effectiveness. They often replace more expensive fabrication methods, such as casting, forging, or machining. The efficient nature of the forming processes involved in pressings and stampings leads to reduced production costs, making them an economically viable solution for businesses.
• Material Saving. Pressings and stampings generate significantly less material waste compared to other manufacturing processes. The precise forming techniques employed ensure that the raw material is used efficiently. This reduces costs and contributes to sustainable manufacturing practices by minimising waste and promoting resource conservation.
• High-Quality Standard. These components meet stringent quality standards. The ability to fabricate components to exact measurements ensures consistency, reliability, and high-quality products. By using pressings and stampings, you can maintain the desired level of precision and accuracy for your manufacturing processes, resulting in superior end products.
• High-Volume Production. Pressings and stampings are ideal when large volumes of identical parts are required. Our state-of-the-art machinery can produce up to three million components per hour without compromising quality. European Springs Ireland delivers efficient and precise manufacturing solutions for businesses requiring large components.

Customisation and Design Flexibility in Pressings and Stampings

One of the unique features of pressings and stampings is their customisability and design flexibility. These processes allow for the creation of bespoke components tailored to specific requirements. Our expert designers have the freedom to explore various materials, including stainless steel, copper, brass, and aluminium, to achieve the desired characteristics and performance for our clients. This means our pressings and stampings can be manufactured in different thicknesses and shapes, providing endless possibilities for customisation and adaptation to various applications. In addition, with computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies, custom designs can be prototyped quickly and cost-effectively, empowering businesses to bring their innovative ideas to life with our help.

At European Springs, we’re dedicated to providing our customers with top-of-the-line bespoke pressings and stampings to meet their unique requirements. Whether it’s aerospace, automotive, construction, electronics, or any other industry, the applications of these components are vast and diverse. Their cost-effectiveness, material saving, high-quality standards, and high-volume production capabilities make them an invaluable solution for businesses worldwide.

Contact us today to learn more about our extensive range of pressings and stampings.

There will always be a demand for skilled engineers in many different fields. This is a direct result of the development and evolution of society, current infrastructure, products, and public services that have become outdated quickly. The complexity of improving these utilities increases, which can burden some governments and economies. However, one group of people is responsible for tackling these complex problems and moving us towards a better future: engineers. Because of this, engineering is an incredibly desirable industry to work in, providing many benefits, including ever-changing and exciting roles and the rewarding opportunity to change the world.

At European Springs Ireland, we’re proud to welcome apprentices and other employees into this fascinating industry, kickstarting their careers. So, if you’re considering starting your working life in the engineering sector, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’re looking into reasons to study this subject, so strap in and let us detail why you’ve made the right choice.

The Ultimate Field for Challenge and Creativity

Engineers need to display incredible creativity when confronted with the technical challenges of modern machinery and products. For example, smartphones influenced and created a new wave of engineering brought about by overcoming immense challenges. With input from scientists, designers and business people, their effort and ingenuity have graced us with everyday devices.

In addition, our wire forms are the driving force of many different electronics and technology, such as circuit boards, computer keyboards, and wireless communication systems. So, if you find yourself curious about how these things work and have a keen mind for applying what you learn to solve real-world problems, engineering is the perfect avenue for your talents.

Skills You Can Apply Anywhere

A career in engineering offers a wide range of transferable skills that can be applied in various industries and disciplines. Engineers possess strong problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking abilities. They are skilled in communication, teamwork, and adaptability, allowing them to collaborate effectively and thrive in diverse work environments. In addition, engineering professionals are proficient in technological tools and methodologies, making them adaptable to new technologies and advancements. These transferable skills make engineers valuable assets in any industry, enabling them to excel in different roles and contribute to the success of varied organisations.

Great Opportunities and Rewards

As an engineer, you benefit from an extensive list of great opportunities and rewards; let’s take a look:

• You will rank amongst the highest-paid professions in the world, even as an engineering graduate.
• Your unique and universal skill set will enable you to work in almost any country, an opportunity few careers offer.
• Engineers will often travel to visit or inspect company facilities, adding variety to their daily routine.
• You will experience diverse and varied opportunities, allowing engineers to work on innovative projects and contribute to society.

Whether you’re part of a team of spring manufacturers or quality engineers, you get to experience a range of rewards that other sectors only dream of.

High Demand and Job Security

At European Springs Ireland, we understand the appeal of engineering as it aligns with our expertise as a leading spring manufacturer and supplier. For instance, the demand for skilled professionals and the resulting job security in engineering are significant factors in why this industry is an excellent career choice. As technology continues to advance, there’s a constant need for engineers to design and maintain complex systems. This creates a favourable job market, ensuring stability and opportunities for career growth.

In addition, the diverse applications of engineering across various industries contribute to job security. For example, a variety of industries need our bespoke springs, such as manufacturing, construction, energy, and medical. This wide range of industries that require engineering expertise ensures a steady demand for professionals in the field.

Chance to Improve the World

One of the most advantageous reasons to study engineering is because those in the industry have a remarkable opportunity to improve the world through their technical expertise and problem-solving abilities. By applying their skills, engineers play a pivotal role in addressing global challenges, such as sustainable development, climate change, and resource management. With their ability to turn ideas into reality, engineers have the power to contribute to the bright future of the industry by creating solutions that address pressing societal needs.

So, if you’re feeling inspired and considering an engineering apprenticeship, we’d like to hear from you. At European Springs Ireland, we’re dedicated to encouraging people to kickstart their careers in this field, which is why we offer a range of apprenticeship programs. Our team are always on the lookout for driven individuals to join our team through our apprenticeships, so if you feel as though this is the right path for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

With over 75 years of experience, we’re excited to share our knowledge and inspire the next generation of driven engineers.

 

In the fast-paced world of electronics and technology, the role of wire forms cannot be overstated. These seemingly humble components play a vital role in various applications, ensuring the smooth functioning of electronic devices and systems.

Wire forms are the unsung heroes behind the scenes, from circuit board assembly to wearable technology and beyond. Read on to learn more about the importance of the reliably high-quality wire form manufacturing we do here at European Springs Ireland.

Are Springs also Wire Forms?

Wire forms are indeed a form of spring, but it is important to note that not all wire forms are classified as springs. While springs primarily serve as energy-storing components, other wire forms serve different purposes and contribute to the overall functionality of a wide range of products.

Wire forms that are not springs are formed or shaped to fulfil a specific role. They are often customised to fit specific applications and may not exhibit the same degree of elasticity or energy storage as traditional springs. Instead, they provide structural support or facilitate connections in electronic or other applications.

Types of Wire Forms Used in Electronic Applications

The electronics industry heavily relies on wire forms to create components essential for numerous applications. While wire forms come in various shapes and sizes, several types are commonly used in electronic applications. Here are some examples of how they are utilised.

• Compression springs are one of the electronics industry’s most widely used types of wire forms. Compression springs maintain pressure between two components or provide cushioning or support. For example, compression springs are used in battery contacts, circuit breakers, and switches.
• Torsion springs work by twisting or torsion instead of compression or extension and are found in relays, switches, and connectors.
• Custom wire forms may have complex shapes and configurations and often have features such as hooks, loops, or other specific geometries. An example of bespoke wire forms in the electronics industry may be contact springs for a sensor or a particular bracket for connections or mounting other components.

Wire Forms in Circuit Board Assembly and Interconnections

Wire forms play a vital role in circuit board assembly and interconnections, ensuring the proper functioning of electronic devices. For example, they’re used as connectors to establish electrical connections between different components within a circuit board. These connectors allow for transmitting signals, power, and data between the various parts of the circuit. Wire forms used in circuit board assembly can be clips, soldered wires, or tightly wound coils.

Wire Forms in Connectors and Cable Assemblies

In cable assemblies, wire forms provide strain relief, which helps to protect the connection points from excessive tension and bending. They enhance the longevity of cables by preventing wire fatigue and damage due to repeated movement or stress. Wire forms also aid in cable management by keeping the cables organised and reducing the risk of tangling.

Wire Forms in Antennas and Wireless Communication Systems

Wire forms in antennas function by converting electrical energy into electromagnetic waves and vice versa. They enable the transmission and reception of signals, allowing for reliable wireless communication. This hardware ensures efficient propagation and reception of signals, leading to improved signal strength and coverage.

Wire Forms in Display Technologies

Wire forms ensure seamless communication between the display panel and the integrated circuitry, allowing for the control and manipulation of individual pixels. They enable the delivery of electrical signals necessary for pixel activation, colour control, and backlighting. Wire forms also contribute to the display’s overall mechanical stability and durability, preventing disconnections or interruptions in the electrical pathways.

Wire Forms in Wearable Technology and Internet of Things (IoT) Devices

In IoT devices, wire forms support sensors, connectors, and antennas, allowing for seamless integration and functionality. They form the backbone of the device’s electrical connections, facilitating data transfer and communication within the IoT ecosystem. The flexibility and customisation options of wire forms make them ideal for the compact and intricate designs of wearable technology and IoT devices, ensuring efficient operation in diverse situations.

Wire Forms in Computer Keyboards

Computer keyboards rely on spring wire forms to facilitate the tactile response and feedback required by users—specifically, a type of spring known as the buckling spring is used. A buckling spring is a coil spring wire form installed underneath each keycap on the keyboard. When a key is pressed, the buckling spring is compressed in a specifically buckled way, which triggers a hammer buckle switch below it, resulting in activated input.

Benefits Wire Forms Provide Electronic Applications

Wire forms offer numerous benefits in the electronics and technology industries, making them essential to many products, for example:

• Reliability: Wire forms withstand external forces and wear and tear, making them highly reliable. They contribute to the longevity and durability of products where implemented.
• Mechanical Stability and Support: Wire forms are internal structures that provide mechanical stability and support to various electronic components. They prevent mechanical failure and ensure that products function optimally throughout their lifespan.
• Improved Electrical Conductivity: Many wire forms are made from highly conductive metals such as copper, facilitating effective electrical conductivity. This means they can support the high-performance electronic components and devices required for various applications.
• Flexibility and Customisation Options: Wire forms suit different electronic applications and are highly adaptable. Our wire form manufacturers use wire forms to create a variety of components with customised shapes, sizes, and materials.

UK Leading Electronic Wire Form Manufacturer

So, as you can see, wire forms play crucial roles in almost every electronic application imaginable. We have manufactured the highest quality wire forms for all the previously mentioned applications and more, thanks to the expertise of our engineers. Contact us today to discover the versatility and adaptability of these components with our in-house wire form manufacturers.

Guaranteeing that manufacturing has plenty of up-and-coming employees of the future is still one of the biggest challenges the industry faces today. With the skills gap in manufacturing still suffering from the after-effects of the pandemic, there can be no let-up in the pursuit of attracting talent to the manufacturing industry.

At European Springs Ireland, we’re incredibly passionate about inspiring future generations and encouraging young people into STEM careers. This drive has led us to build a fantastic apprenticeship program to provide young people with the skills and experience to propel them into fruitful careers.

So, today we’re exploring this by looking into ways businesses in the manufacturing sector can continue to attract some of the best manufacturing talent from around the country.

Hold Online Workshops and Presentations Aimed at Young People

Putting on manufacturing-related workshops that could pull in some of the top manufacturing students from around the country offers your business the perfect opportunity to begin attracting the younger generation. Events like these offer an excellent platform to showcase your company’s expertise and show young people hoping to enter the industry that you are passionate and serious about helping young people learn their trade.

There’s no doubt that by holding an hour-long seminar or two-hour workshop online, you will increase your stock as a manufacturing business while engaging the next generation of engineers. You can rest assured that the next time you come to recruit for entry-level positions, you will receive many applications from those who attended your seminar.

We can’t overstate the importance of having a good relationship between yourself and the next generation of workers. It’s essential to attract the very best talent that is available, so taking the time to engage with them in such a tough time will go a long way to helping solidify this relationship.

Hold an Open Day

If you’re looking to employ young people within your manufacturing business, but are struggling to find the right candidates, then we recommend holding an open day.

To maximise the chances of finding your ideal candidate, it could be worth getting in touch with universities within close proximity of your premises and letting them know you’ll be holding a guided tour of your facilities. Of course, it’s worth mentioning that the end goal of this day is to have some of the attendees apply for a role within the business if they have a relevant skillset.

Alternatively, you could hold an online ‘open day’ for those who cannot physically attend. This could comprise one of your staff members using a mobile phone to stream a guided tour of your facility while giving some insight into the roles available within your company.

This may be seen as a bit of an ‘out there’ idea, but it would certainly break the mould and appeal to younger people. Giving potential candidates a chance to see your manufacturing processes and gain insights into how they may be working will entice and excite any young person looking to gain employment in the sector.

Leveraging Technology and Innovation

As a leading spring manufacturer, we understand that leveraging technology and innovation can significantly help manufacturers attract young people to their business. Manufacturers can enhance efficiency and productivity by adopting advanced technologies such as automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence and create a high-tech work environment. Younger generations are often drawn to industries that embrace cutting-edge technologies and offer efficient processes, so integrating new technology provides ample opportunities for young people to delve in and be inspired.

In addition, working in an industry that embraces technology and innovation can help young people stay relevant in a rapidly evolving job market. Manufacturing companies that employ eco-friendly technologies and promote sustainability initiatives attract young talent who are passionate about environmental issues. By highlighting these aspects, manufacturers can create an appealing and forward-thinking environment that resonates with young people, making the manufacturing industry more attractive to the younger generation as they seek growth opportunities and contribute to a greener future.

Here at European Springs & Pressings Ireland, we take great pride in being forward-thinking spring manufacturers. That’s why we continually invest in our staff and equipment to guarantee that we are always at the forefront of our industry. We understand just how important it is to give our young engineers the best possible start to their careers, and we hope that many other businesses in the industry continue to support their growth for the betterment of the sector as a whole.

If you’re interested in our apprenticeships, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, and a member of our team will be more than happy to guide you in the right direction. Alternatively, please stay updated with industry news about the future of manufacturing apprenticeships so you can stay informed about current affairs and put yourself in the best possible position for a great start to your career.