Author: European Springs Web Team

Pressings and springs are important for many types of industries even though you might not think it, and there are several products which are great to use! There is a large variation of springs to choose from and different types of machinery to create the perfect spring. Stamping presses are used in a variety of industries including aerospace, automotive, medical and construction fields.

This blog is to highlight why stamping presses are good to use in the spring industry.

What Is It?

A stamping press is a metalworking machine tool that can precisely shape or cut metal to a consumer’s specifications. The process involves forming, drawing, trimming, blanking, and piercing the metal with a die. The process can be used for both sheet and coil forms of metal. Stamping presses are the modern-day equivalent of a hammer and anvil.

press angle mechine

How They Work

The press is composed of a bolster plate and ram. The stamping process works by forming the metal between two halves of the press tool. The upper part is attached to slides of the press, while the bottom part is attached to the stationary bolster bed. The larger presses have a die cushion integrated in the bolster plate, which helps apply blank holder forces.

Importance of Stamping Presses

Stamping presses are high quality, effective and inexpensive. This developed technology allows companies and individuals to easily create many different metal products, which is why many businesses use them today.

Different Types of Stamping Presses

There are several different types of stamping presses to suit the best results of the job provided.

Mechanical presses use an eccentric drive, and are run by a motor which runs the flywheel. These types of presses operate at a steady pace and can easily produce metal products. This type uses press force progression, meaning the die guides the pressing action.

Old punching machine closeup.

Hydraulically Driven Presses use hydraulic cylinders to move the ram up and down. They use constant press force during the stroke, utilizing air or liquid to create the pressure.

Single-Acting and Double-Acting Presses. Single-acting presses have asingle ram whilst double-acting presses have a subdivided ram. Its clamped to the top portion of the stamping die, which generates the up and down movement when metal is fed through the die of the press.It works by firstly unrolling the metal from a coil and putting it through a straightener. Once cut, the metal can be shaped to any form.

Nongeared presses are used for when the workload is applied to the bottom of the stroke, for operations such as, blanking, perforating and shallow forming.

At European springs Ireland, we have years of experience working at the highest standard.  We are proud to be a market leader in the industry environments of spring and high speed press technology. We deal with any of our materials in thickness of 0.05 to 4mm. European Springs efficiently manufactures either a single piece or millions of pressings if needed to. We offer services throughout Ireland, giving the same level of service as our clients in the UK and continental Europe.

Get in contact with a member of our friendly team to help you with any enquiries you have.

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Industry is constantly evolving has been over thousands of years, from the Bronze and Iron Ages all the way to the Industrial Revolution and the modern day. We have seen some truly amazing things come out of the industrial sector, and it’s important to understand how things we take for granted were initially developed.

As such, we’ve come up with a small list of scientific breakthroughs that were incredibly important in the industrial sectors, but also to modern day society.

The Internal Combustion Engine

If this wasn’t invented at the time, then we might not be able to see the magnificent automobiles that we see daily. The internal combustion engine is a heat engine that uses thermodynamics to achieve the correct results.

The internal combustion engine is constructed so that when fuel enters the engine block, it reacts with the air inside and is then ignited by a spark plug, which then provides power to the camshaft, and this the transmission and the vehicle chassis.

This type of engine was invented in the mid 1800’s, and it wasn’t until the late 1850’s when it was used commercially for the first time. After this, Nikolaus Otto perfected this engine and developed the Otto engine, which was a four-stroke internal combustion engine. This became the starting point of the invention of the automobile, which was vital since there are now over one billion vehicles on the road across the world.

Technological engine

The Steam Engine

Even though this type of engine is used as frequently as it was in the past, it was still a massive breakthrough when it was patented by Thomas Savery in the late 17th century. The steam engine was an external combustion engine, meaning that the fluid that undergoes work is separated from the products that undergo combustion.

When the steam engine was put into commercial use, it was generally used as a water pump and was then developed into an atmospheric engine, which used half as much coal as the leading engine at the time.

After this, more people began to understand the possibilities that could be achieved through steam engines; this is when they became popular in steam locomotives, paving a new age in transportation across the country.

Steam power was one of the most efficient ways of providing energy to a process, and it was only beaten by electrical powers in the 19th and 20th centuries, meaning that it was a massive breakthrough indeed.

Steam Trains On Parade

The Birth of Electrodynamics

When comparing this to what we see in the modern age, this is one of the most important scientific breakthroughs. This began in the early 19th century with Sir Humphrey Davy inventing the first incandescent light by supplying a current from a battery through a strip of platinum.

After this, William Sturgeon invented the electromagnet and then, in 1831, Michael Faraday developed his theory of electromagnetic induction, which is the principle that is used to operate transformers and all modern electrical generators.

In the 1860’s, Michael Faraday added to this theory and came up with the four Maxwell equations that used to govern the behaviour of electricity and magnetism. These equations have helped us to develop some of the world’s most widely used products, from smartphones to the very best televisions.

Electrical spark

The industrial sector is one of the world’s most important sectors, as it’s a sector that is constantly developing. As specialists within this industry, we understand how important the industrial sector is, which is why we are so proud of being a part of it.

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As a paid job incorporating training both on and off the job, apprenticeships lead to nationally recognised certifications. From electronics to construction and to other engineering industries, apprenticeships allow for apprentices to acquire a wide range of skills.

For both the apprentices and the businesses, apprenticeships are conducive of new skills and aptitudes, providing engineering with highly skilled and experienced workers.

Qualified Workforce

Through apprenticeships, engineering industries train an extremely qualified workforce with optimised skills. In addition, having a workforce who trains at a company ensures that the skills developed by the apprentices match the needs of the specific industry.

Future company needs can be addressed early on through apprenticeships, as businesses can source skilled future employees and managers from within. An apprenticeship can cement a young person’s career choice, which provides engineering industries with necessary resources for their continued development.

New Talent

Engineering industries require new ideas to ensure all processes are not only optimised but also revitalised. Bringing a new, fresh approach to each project and to the workplace itself, apprentices help in thinking about details that industries might not have considered before.

Showcasing their willingness and desire to learn, apprentices have a wide variety of backgrounds and aptitudes. With the probability of transmitting their excitement and eagerness to your staff, apprentices also highlight your concern over corporate social responsibility, which is likely to ensure future employees and customers’ desire to work with your business.

Increased Staff Loyalty

When employees are trained within a company, they are likely to be highly motivated and engaged with the well functioning of the business. Their commitment and support of the business that helped to train them are clearly shown in their work.

In your company and in all engineering industries, investing in apprentices ensures they associate their career with your business and will stay within it longer. Showcasing that you believe and invest in young people’s future guarantees that they are happy to work for you and that they, in turn, invest in you.

And for Apprentices?

Similar to companies, as an apprentice you will see a multitude of career skills become available to you and learn while you work and earn money. Your confidence in your own aptitudes will grow as you gain new skills, ensuring that you are aware of realistic job expectations and the required experience.

As you interact with experienced professionals in your preferred engineering industry, you will gain a better understanding of the field and which role better suits you and your skills. Communication and time management are also other important skills that you will develop, and hands-on experience will help you to stand out in the job market.

Choosing an apprenticeship to begin your career path can open a wide range of possibilities and knowledge, particularly important if you don’t wish to undertake a university degree.

At European Springs Ireland we believe in investing in young people and developing their skills. We understand the importance of apprenticeships both short and long term, and how these positively impact both our company and apprentices.

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British Science week; an entire week where people from around the world get together to embrace, indulge, and celebrate in all aspects of science. From 10-19 March the world is brought closer together, by the wonder of science and everything it includes; from the biology of bees to the science of springs!

With events happening all over Britain, there are plenty of opportunities to stimulate the mind and participate in several exciting activities and events. There is still time to get to an event, as the festival is running all week, and you can even organise an event yourself via the BSA. Even if you aren’t planning to visit this year, at least you have plenty of time to prepare for next year. We have pin-pointed a few ways that you can get involved in the week of British science celebrations!

child working out math on blackbord

Penguin Watch!

The citizen science project at the BSW this year, is all things penguin! They have collaborated with ‘Zooniverse’ on a visual project, to be able to monitor penguins at over 100 sites! With the help of you and the rest of the public, the plan is to annotate thousands of images of penguins and their habitats from over the past 3 years. By doing this and taking part in the penguin watch, you can assist in understanding the species and improving conservation. Your analysis of the images can speed up the process from the extraction process. You can get started by visiting their website www.penguinwatch.org. The citizen science project differs every year, but no matter what you can be involved!

group of penguins

Run or Organise an Event

The British Science Week wouldn’t be able to happen if it wasn’t for people, like you, being pro-active and running activities.  It isn’t as difficult as you might think to take a little time and effort, and you could then be influencing and teaching aspiring scientists. There are a few points you should consider before delving into organisation. Consider what your main objective is, who you audience is and what your teaching subject is. Other important factors are your budget, location, and promotion.

Organising an event or activity for BSW can be a lot of fun, and doesn’t have to take up a huge chunk of your time. Even if you don’t have much experience, and think therefore you shouldn’t take part; well your wrong! We have many resources to help you well on your way, and can even provide presenters and teachers if you require. There are many more helpful tips on the official sites, online guide.  No matter the size of your plans; from a science quiz for your students to a hired hall and a seminar; the limits are endless.

children and teacher in science lesson

Sponsor BSW

The BSW provides an amazing stand for stimulation and support, reaching over a million participants every year. They offer a range of corporate partnerships, such as an associate sponsorship, or a sponsor of a specific activity or component of the week. This could be including the competitions, behind the scenes or digital badges. Being a sponsor and helping the British Science Week comes with many benefits, ranging from great branding opportunities to employee engagement.

The week-long celebrations don’t just commemorate and rejoice the world of science, but all aspects of technology, maths, and engineering. By engaging everybody and getting people involved in these fascinating worlds, BSW can educate and entertain the world, one step at a time. We have only gone into minute detail of what the British Science Week has in store for you. You can find out much more on their website.

As specialist spring manufacturers, we understand the need to spread the joys of engineering and science. The future of science lies in the hands of the next generation, and as we bring a true spring into the wonders of engineering, we can educate the world on the industries.

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This year marks the 10th annual National Apprenticeship Week and it started on Monday 6th March and will finish on Friday 10th. The National Apprenticeship Service coordinate the week, and it is designed to celebrate how apprenticeships can make a huge and positive impact on individual people, companies, and the economy as a whole.

But why are apprenticeships important to our country? Well, as expert manufacturers that are at the forefront of the industry, we know a lot about this.

The Week Is Great for Confidence

National Apprenticeship Week helps to make a positive impact for people that are present in various industries around the UK. Because of this, the week includes lots of activities, events, drop-in sessions, and much more.

engineer and apprentices
Engineer Teaching Apprentices To Use Tube Bending Machine

These events can help to engage in apprenticeships that are currently working in the UK, as well as people that are interested in going into an apprenticeship, which can increase their confidence for the better.

Apprenticeships are Important to the Economy

In late 2014, it was reported by the Centre for Economics and Business Research that apprenticeships could contribute £34 billion to the UK economy, which is a staggering amount, considering that the total UK GDP in 2014 was equivalent to approximately £454 billion.

Therefore, apprentices in the UK contributed 7.5% of the UK’s GDP, and if the UK economy increases as it has done year on year, then the number of apprentices will increase, meaning that will become even more important than ever before.

It’s Great for Learning New Skills

If there’s one reason to joining an apprenticeship in today’s climate, it is to learn excellent transferable skills that you can take with you throughout your life. At the age of 16, you have two main choices when it comes to furthering your education; you can continue through to A-Levels, or you can join an apprenticeship.

student using a computer

By being a part of an apprenticeship, it can provide you with the skills that you will not have learnt if you studied it in a classroom. Apprenticeships are very hands on and it can be an excellent stepping stone in achieving the career that you’ve dreamed of being in for years.

It could be anything from manufacturing and technological development to cooking and construction, but either way, being an apprenticeship within these industries can be the perfect way to develop the necessary skills and go into the career you’ve always dreamed of.

Because of these aspects of apprenticeships, it is safe to say that National Apprenticeship Week is important in terms of awareness as it is for providing people with the information that they need to join the career path they’ve always wanted.

As specialist spring manufacturers, we understand how important apprentices are to the manufacturing industry, and it is vital to ensure that they are an integral part of our economy. The future of the economy is governed by the products that we produce, and if we continually bring in new apprentices that are eager to learn, we will flourish in the industry around the world.

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With the introduction of the apprenticeship levy on April 6th 2017, employers in the UK will be required to invest more in apprenticeships. This system means that employers can incentivise their employees to achieve an apprenticeship at a Master’s level offered at Cranfield University.

Also known as a Mastership, employees are able to gain high-level engineering skills as it’s an apprenticeship at level 7. Whether your employees have an academic trajectory or experience in the industry, these Masterships are all-inclusive.

What is a Mastership?

Focused on your employees’ field, Masterships work towards building a framework of core skills and other needed knowledge in order to perform a career at a high level in an organisation. Through gathering a specialised portfolio, your employees demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field.

As an employer, you select your employees for a Mastership and provide funding, which thanks to the apprenticeship levy will be more favourable. Your employees will still follow the same admissions process utilised for any postgraduate students, with the same requirements for experience and qualifications.

Engineering Sectors

Designed and utilised since the beginning of last year by members of the Defence Growth Partnership, the defence industry was the first to develop and run the Mastership. It is, however, available for a wide range of engineering industries such as energy and power, aerospace, environment and agrifood, and management amongst others.

The duration of the Mastership is five years, with three years being dedicated to academic study undertaken on a part-time basis. This investment in your employees ensures they will develop vital experience and skills that will benefit your business.

Importance of Skilled Employees

By investing in your employees, you ensure that they invest back into your business and improve the overall level of efficiency. Your employees remain engaged with their work and motivated to perform at their best, which promotes their creativity and increases productivity.

Employee retention can be an issue for businesses, and providing development opportunities for your employees builds their loyalty to your business. Your reputation for being a good employer also increases, which impacts how clients and prospective employees see you.

Investing in employee development forces you to look to the future of your business, which only leads to productivity and improvement. You also retain a highly-skilled workforce with up-to-date training and innovative skills, which they will input back into your business.

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