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.

Manufacturing apprentice and his tutor

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.

Two female STEM students working on a manufacturing project

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.

Female manufacturing student with male tutor

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.

Manufacturing online course

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.

Manufacturing engineer installing suspension springs on cars

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.

Red tractor driving through a field

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.

Bridge construction

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.

Springs shown used in dental implants

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.

Wireforms arranged on a white background

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

Wire sparking

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

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.

A metal whisk and eggs on marble worktop

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.

A single wireform

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.

Engineering tutor and apprentice completing a practical assigment

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.

Engineering apprentices stood with their tutor smiling

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.

Two engineering and manufacturing apprentices working on a practical assignment

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.

Male and female engineering apprentices with safety goggles and boiler suits smiling

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.

Here at European Springs Ireland, we’re committed to providing our customers with a smooth journey while working with us to ensure they get everything they need. From initial conversations to providing repairs and maintenance long after handing over their orders, we’re here for our customers. One of the ways we assist is through our design support, which we’re exploring in today’s blog post.

Designing springs at European Springs Ireland

We’re taking a look at the design support you should expect to receive when working with our team and what this entails, including our processes and how we handle each order, from mass productions to one-offs.

What Is Design Support?

Design support is part of our spring manufacturing process. It refers to the assistance provided to customers in designing custom springs, pressings, and wireforms that meet their specific needs and requirements. This support can include a range of services, such as consultation on material selection, wire diameter, spring rate, and other design parameters. For example, design support aims to help customers create a spring optimised for their application, considering load capacity, deflection, frequency, and durability factors. This can lead to improved performance, longer service life, and reduced costs for the customer over the long term. In addition, our conversations help bring our customers’ products to life, allowing them to visualise what they’re ordering and understand how it will function. This also allows our customers to voice any necessary adjustments to the design before production begins.

Our Design Support Process

As leading spring manufacturers in Ireland with over 70 years of industry experience, we are proud of our design support process and believe we have perfected this service.

Spring up close

Our expert team of engineers assist you in making decisions on the design of your product, whether you have a bulk order of compression springs or a single pressing. No matter the size of your order, we can help you decide on the design, material, and surface treatment of your chosen pressings, stampings, or springs. We do this to ensure customers get the most suitable products for their application and are completely satisfied with the final result.

Each order goes through our rigorous process, which involves the following:

  • Selecting the material and considering technical requirements, price, and availability
  • Manufacturing method
  • Capital investment for tooling
  • Finishing requirements, such as heat treatment
  • Assembly requirements, including automation
  • Repeatability

These requirements are essential in manufacturing the perfect product for our customers. They help us pinpoint exactly what our customers require, so they leave us satisfied and confident in our services. It also ensures that everyone involved in the manufacturing process is clear on the goals and that there aren’t any confusions or backtracking that could cost us and our customers time, money, and other resources.

Custom Spring, Pressing, and Wireform Manufacturing and Your Valuable Input

Our customers’ input is crucial when it comes to bespoke spring design for several reasons, such as:

  • Ensuring we meet their specific requirements. Each custom product has unique requirements, such as dimensions, materials, and load-bearing capacities, so it’s vital that everyone involved in the manufacture understands this.
  • Customisation. We pride ourselves on our bespoke services, meaning our spring design team can provide truly unique and specifically tailored products, and our client’s input on these details is essential.

Design engineering looking together at a project

  • Building trust. Taking the clients’ input into account can also help build trust between the manufacturer and the client. By working collaboratively and considering the client’s needs, manufacturers can demonstrate their commitment to providing high-quality, customised products that meet their needs.

Design Support for Bulk and One-Off Orders

As mentioned, we offer design support for all orders, no matter how big or small. However, there are slight differences between the process if you want a bulk order or a one-off product.

Of course, the main difference between bulk and one-off orders is the number of products produced. This means more materials, time, and other resources will be used during the production of bulk orders, making it absolutely vital that everyone is satisfied with the final design before production begins. However, if a customer requests a single product, although the design is still important, it won’t have a catastrophic effect if slight changes are needed to the product after its production.

Following this, although some may believe that the design process may be lengthier for bulk orders, this isn’t always true. Although they require a lot of detail from the customer to ensure complete satisfaction before production begins, customers will bulk order our standard products, such as our tension springs, for example. In contrast, one-off orders may have unique and incredibly specific requirements that aren’t included in our Spring Catalogue.

Whatever your order, our design support team needs your input to ensure we provide you with the right product. So please get in touch today to begin those all-important conversations with our spring design experts.

As technology creeps further into every aspect of the manufacturing industry, European Springs Ireland is excited to be at the forefront of technological developments. We’re fascinated by the successes of these innovations and are always looking for ways we can implement new technology into our practices to provide better services for our clients.

Automated robotics in a factory

One technological advancement that has proved it is here to stay is automation. In recent years, we have seen incredible automation developments in manufacturing and have been fascinated by how it is assisting manufacturers and engineers worldwide.

So, today, we’re exploring everything you need to know about automation in manufacturing. We’re taking you on an insightful look behind the curtain as we delve into what it is, how it has been implemented into the industry, and what the pros and cons are of this revolutionary technology; read on to learn more.

What Is Automation?

Automation is a term for any technology or computerised machine that, in order for it to work, requires little human input. While automation isn’t new, the different types of automated technology available today are constantly updated with the latest software.

Robotics and human workers connecting

There are different types of automation available, for example:

  • AI. Artificial intelligence is used in many manufacturing companies across the world. For example, in spring manufacturing, it can be used in the replacement of the testing process to minimise resource waste.
  • Process automation. This involves the use of apps or other software used to streamline business processes that were previously completed by humans either on a computer or through paperwork.
  • Robotics. Also known as integration automation, robots have been used to mimic the actions of a human and can complete physical tasks such as packing.

There are also other, much more basic examples of automation that aren’t just found within the manufacturing industry. For example, using an online chat room for employees is considered a part of automation, as it replaces physical human interactions, which has been implemented in almost all industries.

How Has Automation Been Implemented Into Manufacturing?

As mentioned, automation has been implemented in the manufacturing industry in a wide variety of ways, such as through:

  • Robotic assembly lines
  • Computer-controlled tools
  • Automated material handling
  • Automated inspection systems

These are just a few examples of the many different areas of automated manufacturing, and we believe it will only get bigger and better. Whilst we would never expect automation to take over the creative minds of our spring design team, for example, we do believe it can be beneficial in other areas of our business. For instance, when it comes to producing custom bulk orders for our clients, implementing automotive technology may increase the springs’ accuracy and speed up the process.

Person working on a computer

Automation and Analytics

Analytics are used throughout manufacturing and has been a major part of Industry 4.0 in terms of machine data. As this often involves a lot of technical skill and, more often than not, advanced experience, automation has been tested to take over this area of manufacturing.

The two work together by providing automated data on production processes and machines. The automation systems are able to collect data from machines before feeding it into analytics software for review. During the review, the collected data can be used to identify patterns, which then allows manufacturers to make informed decisions about improving productivity and efficiency, for example. In addition, automation systems can also use this data to predict problems with the machines and prevent them from occurring.

Advantages of Automation in Manufacturing

There are plenty of advantages of automation in manufacturing; let’s take a look:

  • Increased efficiency. Automation reduces production time significantly and works to streamline processes.
  • Reduces human error. It can eliminate mistakes made by humans and produce more consistent products.
  • Cost-effective in the long-term. By increasing production rates and reducing labour costs, automation can help manufacturing companies cut costs in the long run.
  • Increased safety. By eliminating human error, injuries are reduced. In addition, as mentioned, automation processes can predict when a machine may have a problem, improving the safety of the technology humans work with.

Human worker looking at robotics and automation

Disadvantages of Automation in Manufacturing

Of course, many people will have doubts about automation, which is completely understandable. While it is impressive technology, it also comes with some drawbacks.

  • Potential job losses. As mentioned, we don’t believe automation could take over humans in all aspects of manufacturing. Still, some areas may see some workforce cuts due to the overwhelming advantages of automation.
  • High initial investment. Automation is cost-effective in the long term, but it must be mentioned that the initial investments can be high. Machinery, software, and other equipment are expensive.
  • Technical issues. Like all technology, automation may run into some technical issues or malfunctions, which can cause delays in productivity.

Whatever your feeling about automation area, there is no denying that it is making its way into manufacturing in a variety of forms. If you work in the sector, you probably already noticed an increase in automation; if not, you certainly will now.

As mentioned, we’re excited about these digital transformations here at European Springs Ireland and actively seek opportunities to implement them into our spring manufacturing processes.

If you’re as excited as us by digital change and think that the fascinating world of spring design and manufacturing is a place you would thrive, we would like to hear from you. Get in touch to find out about our latest vacancies and start your new career at this exciting time of automation transformation.

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