Author: European Springs Web Team

Here at European Springs, we are leading manufacturers of springs and metal components in Ireland, and with over 70 years of experience in the industry, we have established a reputation for producing high-quality, reliable products that meet the needs of a wide range of customers.

This long list of products includes stampings and pressings, which have a wide range of uses and help those in an extensive range of industries. So today, we’re exploring everything from the basics of stampings and pressings to their various applications, advantages, and design considerations. Let’s dive in and discover everything you need to know about our stampings and pressings.

What Are Stampings and Pressings?

Pressings and stampings are metal components produced through different manufacturing processes but share many similarities. Both processes involve manipulating a flat metal sheet into a specific shape using a tool and die set.

For example, pressings involve applying force to a metal sheet or strip using a press, while stampings involve pressing a flat sheet of metal into a specific shape using a stamping press. The resulting components can vary in complexity and size, from simple brackets to intricate parts used in electronics and aerospace applications.

We produce our versatile and cost-effective pressings and stampings using various materials, including stainless steel, brass, copper, and aluminium, to meet the needs of a diverse range of industries.

Types of Stampings and Pressings

We manufacture many different stampings and pressings here at European Springs, each with unique characteristics and applications; let’s take a look:

• Flat stampings. These stampings are flat metal components cut and formed into various shapes using a stamping press.
• Progressive stampings. Progressive stampings involve multiple stations within a single die to create more complex shapes and features, typically used for higher-volume production.
• Deep-drawn stampings. These are created by pulling a flat metal sheet into a three-dimensional shape using a series of dies. Deep-drawn stampings are often used for creating cylindrical or dome-shaped components.
• Transfer stampings. Transfer stampings are similar to progressive stampings but involve moving the material between multiple dies to create more complex shapes.
• Fine blanking. Fine blanking is a specialised form of stamping that involves using high-tonnage presses and specialised tooling to produce parts with extremely tight tolerances and smooth edges.
• Four slide stampings. Four slide stampings are created using a specialised machine that bends and shapes the metal using tooling with 360-degree capability. These types of stampings can save on material utilisation.

Of course, in addition to these, there are many other types of stampings and pressings, each with unique benefits and applications. If you’re unsure of which type you need for your application, our expert stamping and pressing engineers can assess and produce exactly what is required, so rest assured that you’ll receive a product that works for you.

The Materials We Use for Stampings and Pressings

Our dedicated and passionate Design Support team do everything they can to ensure you receive a product that is refined and developed before production even begins, which includes deciding on the perfect material. This way, we have taken great care to consider any specific requirements you might have and thus produce a product that is exactly what you need.

We create each pressing and stamping from a high-quality metal strip material such as:

• Aluminium
• Beryllium copper
• Brass
• Carbon spring steel
• Copper
• Phosphor bronze
• Stainless steel
• Super alloy

In addition, we also use both flattened wire and even non-metallic materials to give you as much choice as we possibly can. The material used in a stamping or pressing can significantly impact its performance and properties, so the material chosen must be the right fit for your stamping or pressing’s application. For example, some materials are more resistant to corrosion than others, so materials such as stainless steel or aluminium may be preferred in applications where corrosion is a concern. Similarly, materials such as copper or aluminium are highly conductive and may be the best choice in applications where electrical conductivity is important.

The Manufacturing Process

Our comprehensive stamping and pressing manufacturing process allows us to produce high-quality components to meet the needs of our customers. For example, we work closely with each customer to understand their unique requirements and develop 2D and 3D CAD designs for the stamped or pressed component. Once the design is finalised, we move on to tooling design and manufacture, where our experienced toolmakers use state-of-the-art machinery to create the necessary tooling and dies to produce the component.

With the tooling in place, we begin the stamping and pressing process. Our skilled operators use hydraulic and mechanical presses to produce the component to the required specifications before the finishing stage. Depending on the products’ needs, this can include powder coating, plating, painting, and much more.

With our experienced engineers, skilled operators, and state-of-the-art machinery, we can produce a wide range of stampings and pressings to meet any requirement.

Quality Control

We have a rigorous quality control system throughout manufacturing to ensure the component meets the required specifications. We use various measuring and testing equipment to verify the component’s dimensions, strength, and other properties.

Quality control is a crucial step in the stamping and pressing manufacturing process at European Springs Ireland. We conduct quality control checks at each stage of the manufacturing process to ensure that any issues are identified and addressed early. For example, we may use coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) to verify the dimensions of the component or tensile testing machines to test its strength and durability.

In addition to the equipment we use, we also have a team of experienced quality control personnel trained to identify any issues or defects. They work closely with our engineers and operators to ensure the component meets all the requirements.

So, if you’re interested in our stampings and pressings and would either like to learn more about the process or enquire about an order, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, and a member of our team will be more than happy to assist.

The manufacturing industry has been a vital part of the global economy for centuries, and as technology continues to advance rapidly, it has become increasingly important for the manufacturing industry to adapt and embrace new technologies.

One way to ensure that the industry stays up-to-date is through apprenticeships. Apprenticeship schemes are an excellent way for individuals to gain the skills and knowledge they need to excel in the manufacturing sector. And at the same time, assist the wider industry in developing further.

So, as providers of manufacturing apprenticeships in Ireland, we wanted to provide a professional opinion on what the future holds for these schemes and how we’re adapting to industry changes.

A Brief History of Manufacturing Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships have been used to train skilled workers in various trades for thousands of years. In fact, the concept of apprenticeships dates back to the Middle Ages, when young people would enter into an agreement with a master craftsman to learn a trade. However, it wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries apprenticeships became even more important as new manufacturing techniques, and machinery were developed. In the early 20th century, the concept of apprenticeships became more formalised and standardised and then during World War II, apprenticeships were used extensively in the manufacturing industry to train workers for the war effort. After the war, apprenticeships continued to train workers for the manufacturing industry and other trades such as plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry, which brings us to today.

Now, manufacturing apprenticeships are used to encourage young people to start a STEM career and are viewed as an effective alternative to university. As a result, they’re an incredibly popular path for those interested in joining the manufacturing industry, and we’re very proud to be contributing to this field.

Here at European Springs Ireland, we’re always on the lookout for ways to improve our apprenticeship offerings in line with industry-wide changes, which means looking to the future.

Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 is the fourth industrial revolution, integrating advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and big data analytics into manufacturing. The impact of Industry 4.0 on the future of manufacturing apprenticeships is significant. With the adoption of advanced technologies, manufacturing companies will require a new set of skills from their workforce, and apprenticeships will need to adapt to keep up with these changes. For example, apprenticeship schemes must focus on digital skills, such as programming, data analysis, and robotics, to ensure the workforce can effectively operate and maintain the new technologies integrated into the manufacturing process. In addition, Industry 4.0 will also impact the delivery of apprenticeships as digital platforms and e-learning become more common in training programs. This shift towards digital delivery will enable apprentices to learn at their own pace and access training materials remotely, increasing accessibility and flexibility.

Changing Demographics

The changing demographics in society significantly impact the future of manufacturing apprenticeships in several ways. For example, as the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age, there is a significant shortage of skilled workers in the manufacturing industry, increasing demand for apprenticeships to train the next generation.

In addition, the demographics of the workforce are changing, with more people of colour, individuals from underrepresented communities, and female apprentices entering the industry. This increased diversity has led to a need for apprenticeships that can cater to the needs of these different groups.

To address these changes, manufacturers are developing new apprenticeship programs that are more inclusive and flexible. And ultimately, the success of these efforts will depend on the ability of the industry to adapt to changing demographics and to provide the training and support that workers need to succeed.

Addressing the Skills Gap

Manufacturers are taking a variety of steps to address the skills gap and support the future of manufacturing apprenticeships, such as:

• Partnering with educational institutions. Manufacturers are partnering with high schools, colleges, and universities to develop educational programs that align with the skills needed in their industry.
• Investing in technology. The manufacturing industry is becoming increasingly technologically advanced, so manufacturers are investing in technology to help their employees keep up with these changes. This includes investing in automation, artificial intelligence monitoring, and other technologies that will help workers be more efficient and effective in their jobs.
• Supporting diversity and inclusion. For example, manufacturers are working to create a more diverse and inclusive workforce by recruiting more women to close the gender skills gap.

By investing in education, technology, and workforce development programs, manufacturers are helping to ensure that the industry has the skilled workers it needs to thrive in the years ahead.

Hybrid Learning

Like most other industries, hybrid learning and working are firmly set in the future of manufacturing apprenticeships. It combines traditional in-person classroom instruction with online learning, allowing apprentices to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. This provides students with increased flexibility, which is particularly beneficial for those working full-time jobs or having other responsibilities outside their apprenticeship.

Additionally, hybrid learning provides apprentices access to a wider range of learning resources than traditional classroom instruction alone. These resources can include videos, webinars, podcasts, and other online content to enhance the learning experience.

Overall, hybrid learning is transforming the future of manufacturing apprenticeships, and manufacturers are increasingly adopting hybrid learning models to help their apprentices gain the skills they need to succeed in the manufacturing industry.

So, if you’re interested in joining this ever-changing industry, we’d love to hear from you. Now is the time to invest in your future and choose European Springs Ireland to kickstart your career in manufacturing. We offer excellent apprenticeship schemes where you’ll learn valuable skills and experience in manufacturing compression springs, designing bespoke pressings, and more. So, get in touch today, and a member of our team will be delighted to point you in the right direction.

Springs are essential in many industries and play a critical role in the functions of a wide range of products, machinery, and equipment. From automotive to medical, springs are used in various applications for an extensive list of different industries. Here at European Springs Ireland, our experience working with these industries is vast, and no day is ever the same, making it an incredibly exciting place to work.

So, to highlight this and provide insight into our varying work, we’re exploring the different industries that rely on spring manufacturers in this blog. We’re delving into the different sectors and types of springs used in their equipment and machinery, so keep reading to get a behind-the-curtain look at the importance of what we do.

Agriculture

We work closely with companies in the agriculture industry, providing springs for grassland harvesting machinery. These components are crucial for agricultural machines, for example, suspension springs. Tractors, ploughs, and other heavy agricultural machinery rely on suspension systems to absorb the shock and vibration from operating in uneven terrain. High-quality suspension springs are necessary to ensure these machines operate smoothly and efficiently. Without reliable suspension springs, those in the agriculture industry would experience breakdowns in their tractors and other machinery, which could have a detrimental effect on their work and cause delays down the supply chain.

As a reliable spring manufacturer with high quality at the forefront of our products, we ensure that our customers in the agriculture industry have the springs they need to get on with their work without worrying about breakdowns and damage to their machinery.

Automotive

At European Springs Ireland, we have found that our products have the most extensive application in the automotive sector. Not surprisingly, torsion springs are used most frequently throughout the industry due to their rotational movement. For example, they’re used in several components of an engine, such as camshafts, crankshafts, and timing belt tensioners. These springs ensure the engine operates smoothly and efficiently by maintaining the correct timing and tension.

In addition, much like in the agriculture industry, suspension springs are used throughout the automotive sector. Suspension systems in cars, trucks and other vehicles require these springs to absorb shock and provide a smooth ride.

Construction

Construction is an incredibly broad industry, meaning there are countless ways that they rely on spring manufacturers, such as ourselves, to provide essential components. For example, door hinges use compression springs to provide tension and help keep the door closed. This means builders will need high-quality, reliable compression springs to complete their door constructions and finish a job to the best standard.

Similarly, different types of springs are used during bridge construction to help absorb shock and movement caused by wind or heavy traffic. These springs are often placed in the bridge’s foundation or support structures, making them key components in the overall structure of the bridge.

Defence and Aerospace

European Springs Ireland is responsible for supplying the defence industry with a variety of springs and wireforms, and we frequently manufacture springs used in aerospace applications. This includes creating springs for next-generation airborne smart decoys, high-spec electrical connectors, and even the Eurofighter.

We understand the crucial role that high-quality functional components play in ensuring precision and safety, and with the help of our skilled technicians and state-of-the-art CNC equipment, we’re able to craft custom designs and unique military spring components. This includes aerospace springs and magazine springs.

Electronics

As the electronics industry is so broad, several types of springs are used in the sector for various purposes; let’s take a look.

• Compression springs. These are the most commonly used springs in the electronics industry and are used as battery contacts, switch contacts and connectors.
• Torsion springs. Torsion springs are chosen when a rotational force is required, such as in relays and switches.
• Wave springs. These springs are used in applications where space is limited, such as microelectronic devices.
• Constant force springs. A constant force is needed in tape and reel applications, making these springs the best choice.

Overall, the type of spring used in the electronics industry will depend on the specific application and requirements of the product, but we are able to manufacture any configuration you require.

Medical

Finally, we’re exploring how our medical industry uses our springs. Fascinatingly, different spring types are used in various implants, such as dental implants, to support and stabilise the affected area.

In addition, they are also used in medical devices, such as infusion pumps, insulin pens, and inhalers, providing accurate and precise dosing of medication.

As you can see, our experience is hugely varied, and working with so many different businesses from a variety of industries allows us to constantly expand and perfect our offerings. As a result, no day is ever the same, and we’re always looking for new and interesting uses for our springs.

So, if you’re looking for a reliable spring manufacturer in Ireland, we want to hear from you. Contact us today, and a member of our expert team will be more than happy to help.

Here at European Springs Ireland, when it comes to manufacturing wireforms, we’re proud to run one of the largest production machinery assemblies in Europe and have been doing so for decades. As well as our standard wireform elements, we offer bespoke options at unbeatable prices, making us the best choice for all your wireform needs.

No matter the industry you work in, or your needed number and configuration of wireforms, we’re certain to be able to help you, which is what we plan to do today. To help you understand more about these components, we’re taking a deep dive into everything you need to know about wireforms, how they’re made, and how you can use them. So read on to discover more about this fascinating product and what it can bring to your business.

What Are Wireforms?

Wireforms are small, intricate wire shapes used in various applications, from medical devices to automotive parts. They are typically made from wire bent or shaped into a specific form, and they can be manufactured into a wide range of shapes and sizes, materials, and finishes; for example, stainless steel, titanium, and nitinol.

These components are often used as part of larger assemblies or products and are found across a wide variety of industries, including:

• Medical
• Electronics
• Aerospace
• Automotive

At European Springs Ireland, we have manufactured wireforms for an extensive amount of different uses, such as:

• Headsets
• Computer brace devices
• Pins
• As part of our spring manufacturing processes

However, this isn’t an exhaustive list. The possibilities of wireform use are endless, and the configurations are only limited by the designers’ imaginations, which is why our experience manufacturing these components is vast and varied.

How Are Wireforms Used?

As mentioned, wireforms are incredibly versatile components used in an extensive range of industries. However, despite this, their importance is often overlooked, and they rarely get acknowledged for their impressively profound impact. As leading wireform manufacturers, we appreciate their influence and significance and want to express this to our clients. So, let’s take a more in-depth look into how they are used; you might be surprised just how many times you have come across wireforms without realising!

• Springs. One of the most common uses of wireforms is to manufacture springs, and as spring manufacturers, we’re well aware of their importance in this context. Wireforms can be designed to produce different types of springs, including compression springs and many other types we produce.
• Consumer products. Wireforms are used in everyday consumer products, such as toys and kitchen utensils. For example, wireforms can create a bicycle’s frame or make a wire whisk.
• Electrical contacts. A wireform can be bent into specific shapes to create the contact point of electrical switches, relays, and other devices.

Which Industries Need Wireforms?

Because of the vast range of applications for wireforms, the number of industries they are used in is extensive; let’s take a look.

• Automotive. Wireforms such as seat frames, exhaust hangers, and suspension components are used in automotive applications.
• Aerospace. These components could be landing gear components, engine parts, and control cables, for example.
• Medical. Surgical instruments, orthopaedic implants, and dental devices require wireforms.
• Industrial manufacturing. Wireforms are used in various industrial manufacturing applications, such as machinery components, conveyor systems, and safety guards.
• Agriculture. We work closely with agriculture industry professionals, providing precision wireforms for fencing, livestock handling equipment, and irrigation systems.

These are just a few examples of industries that use wireforms. In general, any industry that requires precision metal components may use wireforms in some capacity, which is why they’re one of our most popular products.

How Are Wireforms Manufactured?

As mentioned, we stock standard configurations of wireforms but also offer bespoke and custom products for those who need something more specific to meet their needs. In fact, we can produce wireforms in virtually any design you can imagine, thanks to our use of 14 cutting-edge CNC automated spring coilers and related equipment. This advanced machinery allows us to manufacture these bespoke wireforms in large quantities, so if you’re interested in bulk ordering, don’t worry; quality will not be compromised, and each component will be perfect.

Alternatively, we still rely on handcrafted wire pins for relatively small orders, which requires our expert spring manufacturers to have an exceptional eye for detail and impressive precision. With this extensive experience and skill in spring wire properties, we are able to produce wire pins of exceptional precision and quality, no matter the size of the order or the required configurations. We can produce wires ranging from 0.20mm to 6.0mm in diameter and create wireforms that will conform to any pattern you envision. These patterns can include pins, three-dimensional shapes, locking clips, and other designs; as mentioned, the only limit is the designers’ imagination.

If this is something you’re interested in, or you’d like to learn more about the wireform processes here at European Springs Ireland, we’d like to hear from you. Please contact our team today to enquire about ordering or to discuss your options with our expert team.

Here at European Springs Ireland, we are dedicated to encouraging young people to join the fascinating field of spring manufacturing. As it is such a broad sector, we believe that anyone can find their place within engineering, which is why we’re always on the lookout for driven individuals to join our team through our apprenticeship programs.

We want everyone to feel comfortable and happy in their role, so today, we’re looking into whether an engineering apprenticeship could be right for you. Read on to learn more about what we offer and take the first steps in your new career.

What Will I Learn During An Engineering Apprenticeship?

During your engineering apprenticeship, you will learn various technical and practical skills related to your specific field. The exact curriculum will depend on the type of engineering apprenticeship you are undertaking, as well as your employer’s requirements and the regulatory body overseeing the program.

For example, if you choose to do a spring manufacturing apprenticeship with European Springs Ireland, you will learn the following:

• Technical knowledge. You’ll learn about the fundamental principles of spring engineering, including maths, physics, mechanics, and our specific spring manufacturing technology and equipment.
• Practical skills. You will have the opportunity to apply technical knowledge in a practical setting, working on projects and tasks under the guidance of experienced engineers.
• Safety procedures. You will learn about the various safety procedures and protocols necessary to maintain a safe working environment when manufacturing springs.
• Communication and teamwork. You will learn to communicate effectively with other students studying engineering apprenticeships and those tutoring you.

This is not an exhaustive list of everything you’ll learn while studying for your engineering apprenticeship. There are countless other things you will pick up while learning, such as valuable advice from those who have been working in the industry for a long time. This experience provides the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in your chosen field.

How Will I Learn and Be Assessed During My Engineering Apprenticeship?

You will likely learn through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom-based instruction. The exact balance of these two types of learning will depend on the specific requirements of your apprenticeship, as each program is different.

On-the-job training will typically involve working under the guidance of our experienced spring engineers, completing practical tasks and projects, and learning from real-world scenarios. You may be assigned to work on various projects, with increasing levels of responsibility as you progress through your apprenticeship.

Classroom-based instruction may take the form of lectures, seminars, and workshops. These sessions will provide you with the theoretical knowledge and technical skills necessary to succeed in your field, as well as an understanding of industry standards and best practices.

Assessment during your engineering apprenticeship will typically be carried out through coursework, practical assessments, and exams. Your progress will be monitored and evaluated throughout your apprenticeship, with feedback provided on your strengths and areas for improvement. You must demonstrate your understanding of key concepts and ability to apply them in practical scenarios to complete your apprenticeship successfully.

Advantages of Engineering Apprenticeships

There are several advantages to pursuing an engineering apprenticeship, such as:

• Hands-on learning and a unique opportunity to gain classroom knowledge and experience real-world projects at the same time.
• Engineering apprenticeships are designed to prepare you for a career and succeed in your profession.
• Whether manufacturing compression springs or managing a bulk order project, you will constantly network with fellow apprentices, mentors, and industry experts, allowing you to build valuable connections.
• Earn while you learn! Of course, one of the greatest advantages for young people undertaking an apprenticeship is the opportunity to earn money while gaining valuable experience and knowledge.
• Completing an engineering apprenticeship can lead to professional certification, which is highly valued by employers and helps you stand out in a competitive job market.

Disadvantages of Engineering Apprenticeships

We understand that engineering apprenticeships aren’t for everybody, and there are several reasons why it may not be the right path for you.

For example, you should only choose an apprenticeship if you’re sure about the field in which you’d like to work. This is because apprenticeships provide a direct route to specific career paths, making you desirable to employers within the industry. However, if you begin your course and realise the sector you’re in isn’t for you, you may need to reconsider completing the apprenticeship.

In addition, some apprentices are discouraged by their starting wages. Although it may be lower than you wish, you must understand that once qualified, your apprenticeship will set you up for a fruitful career. In addition, no other students can say they’re earning while learning, so it’s important to remember that the money you’re making is much better than if you were attending university.

Where Can An Engineering Apprenticeship Take Me?

An engineering apprenticeship can lead to many exciting career paths in a variety of industries. In addition, the skills and knowledge gained prepare you for a wide range of jobs depending on the focus of your apprenticeship.

For example, here are a few of the most common routes an engineering apprentice could go down once qualified:

• Design engineer, focusing on creating new products
• Maintenance engineer, ensuring all equipment is functioning properly
• Project manager, overseeing and coordinating engineering projects
• Manufacturing engineer, focusing on the design and optimisation of production processes
• Quality control engineer, working to ensure products and systems meet the required quality standards

In addition, many of our apprentices have gone on to have successful careers working at European Springs Irelands for many years, making their way up the company in their chosen directions.

If this sounds like the right career path for you, we’d love to hear from you. So please contact us today and start your journey.