Technology Advances the Entire Springmaking Process

It is fall in Chicago, and along with the color change, World Series and college football comes the opportunity for springmakers to see the latest innovations in springmaking technology. Once again, the Chicago Association of Spring Manufacturers Inc. is hosting a world-class show in Rosemont. This year, in addition to the show, the Spring Manufacturers Institute will hold its board meeting and the Wire Association International will have a meeting. The industry will converge in Chicago (Rosemont) to find ways to become more competitive in today’s global market.

Most of the world’s leading spring and wireforming equipment manufacturers will be displaying their latest technology. The world of springmaking equipment has changed a lot in the last 30 years. We have evolved from mechanically controlled equipment with its inherent limitations to complete control of every aspect of the forming process with computers. Even in the equipment that still relies on mechanical components (fourslide/multiple slide and presses) the tools we use are built with computer-controlled machines. This march to computer control of the spring manufacturing process is changing the way we do business.

As we look at all the springmaking machinery, we need to make sure that we take into consideration the necessary support equipment, as well. This includes equipment for grinding, secondary forming, shot peening, heat treating, tool marking and surface finishing. It is essential to look at the entire process and the equipment necessary if we are to remain competitive in today’s market. As part of the process, we also need to evaluate the amount of material handling necessary to be able to ship the parts.

In the time I have spent in this industry, I have seen many cases where springmakers forget to look at the entire process. Understanding the actual throughput and cycle time starts when we first try to visualize how we are going to make a part, then select the right material for the right machine and understand the quality requirements. Every detail that can add cost and/or improve performance must be evaluated, including manufacturing costs, logistics, billing and getting paid.

In this issue of Springs, you will find a great deal of information about spring manufacturing equipment, as well as the ancillary support equipment, material and administrative support systems to give you a competitive advantage. Keeping that competitive advantage is what SMI is all about. We have all heard the advertising slogan, “Membership has its rewards.” The reward of membership with SMI is keeping your spring business competitive. Membership in SMI is also your ticket into Spring World. I hope that you will all get to Chicago to see the show.