End Types

NOTE: These types can be changed to fit the specific types Apex manufactures. We can also include pictures of the different types here if requested, using Apex’s own product pictures if available.

Extension springs have various end types or configurations to suit different mounting requirements. The choice of extension spring end type and design depends on load capacity, extension length, operating temperature, and environmental conditions. These end types play a crucial role in how the spring interacts with the objects it’s connected to.

Here are some popular types of extension spring end types and the various industries where they are commonly used:

Machine Hooks

Machine hooks are the most basic extension spring end type. They consist of simple, tightly wound coils at each end of the spring. These hooks are ideal when the spring will be attached with the help of external components, such as pins or fasteners.

Automotive Industry
Machine hook extension springs are used in the automotive industry for components like seat recliners, trunk and hood latches, and door handles.

Manufacturing and Machinery
They find use in conveyor systems, garage doors, and machinery where controlled extension and retraction are required.

Cross-Center Hooks

Cross-center hooks, also known as cross-over center hooks, have one hook that crosses over the center of the spring to connect with the coils on the opposite side. This design helps to equalize the stress on both ends of the spring and provides stability during operation. Cross-center hooks are often used when the spring needs to be suspended and extended in a straight line.

Aerospace Industry:
Cross-center hook extension springs may be used in retractable landing gear and cabin components, where precision and strength are crucial.

Medical Devices:
These springs can be found in medical devices and equipment that require controlled linear motion or tension, like surgical instruments and hospital beds.

Double Full Loop Hooks

Double full loop hooks feature two complete loops or hooks at each end of the spring. These hooks provide a secure and stable attachment point for various uses. They are commonly used when the spring needs to be secured with bolts, pins, or other hardware.

Industrial Manufacturing:
Double full loop hook extension springs are commonly used in industrial equipment, such as manufacturing machinery and assembly line systems.

Agriculture
Used in farming equipment for functions like tensioning belts and cables on agricultural machinery.

Side Hooks

Side hooks are designed with one or more hooks located on the sides of the spring rather than at the ends. This configuration allows for broader attachment options, making side hooks versatile. They are commonly used when space constraints or specific mounting requirements make traditional end hooks less suitable.

Construction Industry
Side hook extension springs can be used in construction equipment, such as cranes, to assist with various lifting and tensioning functions.

Renewable Energy
Wind turbines often use side hook extension springs for maintaining tension in cables and components.

Extended Hooks

Extended hooks have longer hooks or arms, which can facilitate easier attachment and provide additional flexibility in mounting the spring. These hooks are useful when you need extra reach for attaching the spring to your application. Extended hooks are often used when the attachment points are far from the spring’s coil body.

Marine Industry
Extended hook extension springs are used in the marine sector for securing hatches, doors, and other equipment on ships and boats.

Oil and Gas
Extended hook extension springs are used in the marine sector for securing hatches, doors, and other equipment on ships and boats.

Apex can help design and manufacture the right spring for your project? Contact us, call 616.453.5463 or request a quote today!

Types

Torsion springs are a subset of wire-formed components, and their popularity can vary depending on the needs of specific industries.

Here are some popular types of torsion springs and the various industries where they are commonly used:

Single

Single torsion springs are the most basic type of torsion spring, consisting of a helical coil of wire wound in a single direction. When you twist the ends of the spring, it stores energy, and when released, it exerts a torque or rotational force.

Automotive Industry
Used in various vehicle components like door handles, trunk lids, and seat recliners.

Aero Space Industry
Used in control surfaces, landing gear, and flight control systems.

Industrial Machinery
Used in various types of machinery for controlling and positioning components.

Double

Double torsion springs consist of two helical coils connected by a central element. When you twist the ends of the spring, both coils wind or unwind simultaneously, producing a torque in opposite directions. Double torsion springs are often used when a counterbalancing effect is required.

Medical Devices
Often used in medical instruments, surgical tools, and devices requiring precise torque control.

Electronics
Used in various components like switches and connectors.

Aerospace Industry
When a counterforce or torque is needed in both directions.

Close-Wound

Close-wound torsion springs are wound tightly with minimal space between the coils. These springs are ideal when space is limited and high torque is needed. They offer more resistance to bending and can provide a strong return force.

Garage Doors
These springs are commonly used to counterbalance the weight of garage doors. (NOTE: Apex does not manufacture garage door springs)

Agricultural Equipment
Used in machinery such as plows, cultivators, and more to provide torsion and resistance.

Industrial Equipment
Various machines and equipment use close-wound torsion springs to torque and rotation control.

Open-Wound

Automotive and Transportation
Used in vehicle suspensions and seating systems.

Furniture Industry
Found in recliners, chairs, and other furniture pieces.

Farm Equipment
Used in machinery like hay balers and seeders.

Leg Configuration

Torsion springs can have various leg configurations, such as straight legs, hinged legs, or other custom shapes. The leg design can impact the spring’s behavior and how it fits into the overall system.

Industrial Manufacturing
These are employed in conveyor systems, assembly line equipment, and other automation uses.

Oil and Gas Industry
Used in valves, wellhead equipment, and drilling tools.

Sporting Goods
Found in various sports equipment like golf clubs, fishing rods, and exercise machines.

Need help determining the right spring for your application? Contact us to discuss your needs with one of our experienced team members, or call us at 616.453.5463 to get a no-obligation quote for your company

Assembly with Apex

Outsourcing your assembly project to Apex can be a strategic move to free your valuable resources from time-consuming tasks. Our expertise in assembly services allows us to efficiently handle all aspects of the project, from initial planning to final execution. By entrusting your assembly needs to us, you can redirect your focus and resources toward core business activities. We understand that efficiency and cost management are crucial elements for the success of any project. Our team of professionals possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to streamline the assembly workflow, eliminating inefficiencies and ensuring a smooth production cycle.

Contact us today to talk more about partnering with Apex for assembly services. From selecting the right components and materials to implementing quality control measures, we handle every aspect of the assembly process with precision and attention to detail. Contact Us or Request A Quote today!

Key Assembly Processes and Equipment

In effort to share more about how we approach assembly at Apex. The following describes equipment, capabilities, and processes we use in our assembly facility. Although we are problem solvers and we adapt when needed! So, we are always changing, growing, and adding equipment and capabilities to serve our customers’ needs.

Test Equipment

Test equipment is an essential component of our assembly process at Apex. This includes a wide range of electrical and mechanical testing tools that allow us to evaluate the quality and functionality of assembled products. Electrical testing equipment helps us assess circuitry, voltage levels, and signal integrity to ensure proper functionality. Mechanical testing equipment allows us to test strength, durability, and tolerance, ensuring that the final assembly meets rigorous quality standards. With our advanced test equipment, we can identify and address any issues or defects early on, guaranteeing that the assembled products perform reliably and meet customer specifications.

Torque Guns

Torque guns are invaluable tools used in assembly processes at Apex. These handheld devices are specifically designed to apply precise amounts of torque to fasteners, such as screws, bolts, and nuts. They ensure accurate and consistent fastening, preventing under-tightening or over-tightening of the fasteners. Maintaining the correct torque ensures secure and reliable connections, avoiding issues like stripped threads, component misalignment, or premature failure. With our skilled technicians proficient in using torque guns, we ensure that assemblies are tightly fastened, enhancing structural integrity and overall product quality.

Orbit Riveter

At Apex, we utilize the orbit riveter as a key assembly process. This specialized machine is designed to fasten components together using rivets. The orbit riveter creates an orbital motion, allowing the rivet to be set with precision and consistency. By employing this efficient tool, we can quickly and effectively join parts, ensuring strong and secure connections. The orbit riveter’s precise rivet placement enhances the assembly’s structural integrity, resulting in reliable and durable products.

Tube Cutter

Tube cutting is an important assembly capability at Apex, particularly in the plumbing, HVAC, and automotive industries. Our tube-cutting process involves using advanced equipment to achieve accurate and clean cuts in various types of tubes. This ensures precise lengths and smooth edges, enabling seamless integration during assembly. The precise cuts achieved through our tube-cutting capabilities minimize material waste and eliminate the need for additional modifications, saving time and reducing costs in the assembly process.

Welder

Welding is a crucial assembly process at Apex for joining metal components securely. Our skilled welders utilize advanced welding techniques, including MIG (Metal Inert Gas), TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), and spot welding, to create strong and durable welds. Welding involves applying heat and pressure to fuse metal components, resulting in robust connections. By leveraging our welding capabilities, we ensure that assembled products have excellent structural integrity, withstand demanding conditions, and exhibit long-lasting performance. Our welding expertise allows us to handle various welding requirements, from thin sheets to thick structural components, meeting the highest standards of quality and reliability.

Automatic Greasing Machine

Apex employs automatic greasing machines as part of our assembly capabilities. These machines play a vital role in lubricating assemblies with moving parts. By utilizing precise and automated processes, our automatic greasing machines ensure consistent and optimal distribution of lubricants. This minimizes friction, reduces wear and tear, and enhances the overall performance and longevity of the assembled products. With automated greasing, we eliminate the risk of human error and achieve reliable lubrication that meets the specific requirements of each assembly. This capability not only improves the efficiency of assembly processes but also reduces maintenance needs and enhances the reliability of the final product.

O-Ring Insulation

O-ring insulation is an important process in assembly at Apex, especially for sealing applications. O-rings are essential for creating effective seals and preventing leakage in various assemblies. Our specialized insulation techniques ensure accurate placement and secure integration of O-rings within the assembly. Proper insulation of O-rings prevents contamination, maintains sealing integrity, and ensures optimal performance of the assembled product. By expertly insulating O-rings, we deliver assemblies that meet stringent quality standards and offer reliable sealing solutions across different industries.

Kitting Machine

Our kitting machine capability enables the efficient organization and packaging of components for each assembly project at Apex. This process involves systematically grouping and labeling the required components, ensuring they are readily available during assembly. By streamlining the component retrieval process, our kitting machine reduces setup time, minimizes errors, and enhances assembly efficiency. This capability allows our team to focus on the assembly, improving productivity and ensuring a smooth workflow. With our efficient kitting process, we optimize assembly operations, reduce delays, and deliver high-quality products to our customers.

Hand Assembly

While automation has transformed assembly processes, certain tasks require meticulous manual handling. At Apex, we excel in hand assembly, particularly when it involves delicate or intricate components. Our skilled technicians employ their expertise and attention to detail to ensure precise integration and alignment of components. Hand assembly allows us to achieve an optimal fit, functionality, and quality in assemblies where automated processes may not be suitable. By combining the human touch with our technical capabilities, we deliver assemblies that meet the highest standards of craftsmanship and performance.

Multiple Presses – 4, 8, 10, 12, and 45 Tons

Our assembly capabilities include multiple presses with varying capacities, including 4, 8, 10, 12, and 45 tons. Presses are versatile tools used for various assembly operations, such as inserting bearings, pressing components together, or forming specific shapes. The selection of the appropriate press ensures the application of the right amount of force for each assembly task. Our multiple presses can efficiently handle assemblies of different sizes and complexities, achieving accurate and reliable results. This capability allows us to precisely execute assembly operations, ensuring proper fits, secure connections, and efficient production processes

Introducing The Apex Shipping Department

The shipping department at Apex is the final step in the manufacturing process. It is responsible for ensuring customers get the parts that they need, when they need it. Our shipping facility is fully stocked with parts that can be shipped out at any moment. The following describes the many steps necessary to process each shipment. Including the people who make it happen and what that means for you, the customer!

The Boxing Process

While the shipping department does not manufacture parts, they do very important tasks. The first step in the process is the boxing clerks. This is a two man job. The team receives the parts on pallets and either piles the parts into bins or stores them in totes. Once these parts are received they are weighted and placed into boxes. During this process the team is also doing a final inspection. This is how it works, the first person boxes the parts, and the second person puts labels on the boxes. Once boxed, the parts will live there until the customer opens them. Next they either shelve the parts or immediately ship them to the customers. The boxing clerks must make sure the parts they receive go into the proper location and are labeled correctly. This process ensures that the customer gets the proper amount of parts and that they can be accessed quickly to be shipped. 

We asked a few of the boxing clerks some questions about their job, and about the culture of Apex. Jonah, a boxing clerk, has worked at Apex for 8 years! He said,

“A strength of the shipping department is that we are able to be flexible and adapt to any position within the department.”

He also mentioned that, “The ability to adapt comes from a focus on teamwork and the fun that we have from working with one another”.

His quotes prove to be true when we look into the consistency of this department. Our parts get boxed quickly and accurately, so they can be delivered to the customer on time, every time. Adaptability and teamwork are vital in the success of this department.

The Picking Process

The next step in the process is “The Picker.” This position is a one man job, typically done by Sam, a young man who is a great team member! Sam receives orders from customers that need to be filled and sent out immediately. Sam reviews the orders, identifies the part number in the system, grabs the item from its location, and prepares it to be shipped. We asked Sam what was his favorite part of his job, and he said,

“ I love that my job allows me to stay physically active,” and that “at the end of the work day I feel very accomplished knowing that I did my job well.”

We asked him what he believes the greatest strength of Apex shipping is. His response was one that is echoed by all of his fellow employees,

“Cooperation, in my opinion, is the Apex Shipping Department’s greatest strength.”

Completing Customer Orders

The next part of the process is completing dock orders. When completing orders we put a second label on the boxes before they get shipped out. This is the last task before the items are wrapped and placed onto the truck to be delivered to the customers. This position is filled by Mike, who is a valuable member of the team! Another key team member is James, who manages a variety of tasks such as loading and unloading trucks, checking in parts, boxing parts, and even managing the facility when the shipping and receiving supervisor is gone. This position is vital in the efficiency of the shipping department and is a great illustration of why Apex Shipping is so effective. All the members of the team are dynamic, adaptable, and willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done!

Department Leadership

The shipping department is led by Jarad. He knows the system, the parts we box, and the customers we ship to like the back of his hand. His position is in charge of making sure everything is running smoothly and getting shipped out on time. This position also requires adaptability as you could find Jarad helping out anywhere in the department, while keeping on the same page with production.

Teamwork and Dedication

Some theorize that fun and work cannot go together. Our shipping department believes that consistent, effective work is more likely to happen when the work environment is healthy and fun! Cameron, a shipping clerk, was asked what his favorite aspect of his job is, and he said,

“The people I work with are my favorite part of the job because they create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere.”

A response like this seems to be the theme of our shipping department, and it’s really no wonder why they continually meet deadlines that require teamwork in order to fulfill. One glimpse into our shipping building and anyone could quickly tell what our “secret” to success is; we work together, we work hard, and we enjoy doing it.

You Can Trust Apex

The processes of the Apex shipping department are seamless and efficient. The products we make here at Apex are made with the goal to exceed the consumer expectations. That includes our shipping department and our dedication to consistently delivering those quality products on time. When it comes to products, service, and people, we look to go above and beyond in meeting and exceeding customer needs! How can we help you with your next project?  Start a conversation by Requesting A Quote or Contacting Us today. 

Material Used

The wire-forming process involves working with a variety of materials. The choice of material depends on the application and the final product’s desired properties. The following are some of the most important properties to consider when selecting wire forming materials and the properties possessed by the most common wire forming materials.

Properties of Materials Used in Wire Forming

The properties of the materials used in wire forming play a crucial role in determining the final product’s strength, durability, and other characteristics. Some of the essential properties to consider when selecting materials for wire forming include the following:

Tensile Strength
The ability of the material to resist deformation when subjected to tensile forces.

Ductility
The ability of the material to deform under tensile stress without fracturing.

Corrosion Resistance
The ability of the material to resist corrosion and degradation caused by environmental factors.

Electrical Conductivity
The ability of the material to conduct electricity.

Thermal Conductivity
The Ability of material to conduct heat.

Types of Materials Used

Steel
Steel wire is commonly used in wire forming because of its strength, ductility, and conductivity. There are several steel wire types, including high-carbon, low-carbon, and stainless steel.

Aluminum
Aluminum wire is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and has excellent electrical conductivity, making it suitable for electrical applications.

Copper
Copper wire is highly conductive and ideal for electrical applications. It is also resistant to corrosion and has good ductility.

Brass
Brass wire is a combination of copper and zinc. It is highly corrosion-resistant and has good electrical conductivity.

Nickel
Nickel wire has excellent resistance to corrosion and is suitable for high-temperature applications. It is often used in the aerospace and medical industries.

The choice of material for wire forming depends on the desired properties of the final product. Steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and nickel are among the most commonly used materials, and their properties play a crucial role in determining the final product’s characteristics.

Techniques

Wire forming techniques refer to the various methods used to manipulate wire into different shapes and forms. These techniques are critical in creating a range of wire-based products, including springs, clips, fasteners, and wire mesh. There are both basic wire forming techniques and advanced wire forming techniques worth noting. Below, we discuss some of the basic wire forming techniques.

Basic Wire Forming Techniques

Bending
Bending involves the manipulation of wire to create various angles, curves, and shapes. It is one of the most basic wire-forming techniques for creating products such as brackets and hooks.

Cutting
Cutting involves using specialized equipment to cut the wire into different lengths and shapes. It can be used to create wire forms, wire baskets, or even springs.

Coiling
Coiling involves winding wire around a cylindrical object to create a coil. It is used to create products such as springs and wire forms.

Advanced Wire Forming Techniques

In addition to these basic techniques, there are also more advanced wire forming techniques, such as:

Welding
Welding involves joining two or more wires by melting and fusing them together. It is used to create products such as wire mesh and wire baskets.

Swaging
Swaging involves compressing a section of wire to create a smaller diameter. It is used to create products such as wire rope and cable.

Drawing
Drawing involves pulling a wire through a die to reduce its diameter and increase its length. It is used to create products such as wires for electrical applications.

Wire-forming techniques have evolved, with manufacturers developing new and more advanced techniques to create complex wire-based products. Basic wire-forming techniques such as bending, cutting, and coiling are essential in creating simple wire-based products. However, advanced wire-forming techniques such as welding, swaging, and drawing require specialized equipment and skilled operators and are used \to create more complex wire-based products.

Here at Apex Spring & Stamping, our ream is highly skilled and can perform these advanced wire forming techniques to your specifications. With our specialized equipment and state of the art facility we can provide efficiency and precision.

Exciting News!

Steelcase Inc, a leading supplier of office furniture worldwide has awarded Apex Spring and Stamping a “Preferred Supplier” status for 2023-2024.

Apex prides itself on Quality, Service, Cost Containment, Delivery, and innovation, which are all measured in its supplier scorecard. This has to be maintained over a 1 year period to be awarded this prestigious award.

A quote from our Supply Chain Lead said we were only 1 of 2 awarded this in her supply chain book of business.

Measurements are based on the following:

• DPPM parts rejected parts per million
• Risk Management – Financial Rating
• Cost Management- Containment, and Reduction Ideation
• Agility- Service Flexibility and
• Engineering Support
• Sustainability- Environmental awareness (Carbon Reduction)
• On-time delivery- over 125,000 shipments to 7 locations, including 2 International.

This was accomplished through over 300 parts (individual components and assembly) including springs, stampings, wire forms, assembly, and kitting.

Apex Spring and Stamping has continued to provide all these categories at a high level for many years. We are proud to have had a working relationship with Steelcase since 1978.

How can we provide this to you? Start a conversation by Requesting A Quote or Contacting Us today.

Process & Techniques

The metal stamping process involves specialized machinery, including dies and punches, to cut and shape metal sheets into specific shapes and sizes. The process is typically performed on flat sheets of metal fed into a stamping press, where they are cut, bent, or shaped using a series of dies and punches.

Metal stamping is a versatile process that can be performed using various techniques depending on the complexity of the part being produced. Here are some of the most common metal stamping techniques:

Progressive Die Stamping

This technique is commonly used for the high-volume production of parts that require multiple operations to be performed on them. It involves feeding a metal strip through a series of dies that progressively cut, bend, and shape the metal into a finished part. Each die performs a specific operation, which can be automated for high efficiency.

Four-Slide Stamping

This technique uses a four-slide machine to bend and shape metal into complex parts. The machine has four moving slides that work together to create intricate shapes. Four-slide stamping is ideal for producing parts with multiple bends and shapes.

Multi-Slide Tooling

This technique is similar to four-slide stamping but uses a machine with more than four slides. The process is used to create complex parts with multiple bends and shapes. Multi-slide tooling is ideal for the high-volume production of small parts.

Deep Drawing Stamping

This technique uses a punch and dies to draw a flat metal sheet into a three-dimensional shape. The process creates parts with deep recesses or shapes that cannot be achieved through other stamping techniques. Deep drawing stamping is ideal for producing parts with a high depth-to-diameter ratio.

Transfer Die Stamping

This technique involves using a series of dies to transfer the metal sheet from one station to another, each station performing a specific operation. The process is used to create complex parts with tight tolerances. Transfer die stamping is ideal for producing large, complex parts.

Current Conditions

First, some good news is that some of the clogs in the supply chain have resolved themselves. There are still some shortages, and we have seen some items quoted with shorter lead times but unfortunately, the reasons for this are not positive. Due to higher interest rates, fears of recession, and certain sectors slowing down, there is still an increase in demand. Infrastructure projects, military equipment, and a handful of other industries continue to show 1% – 2% year over year global increases.

Digging Deeper

Many analysts are questioning decisions made by the industry as a whole. Over the past few years, the steel industry profits have increased but they have neglected to invest in their own future. The traditional production process for making steel is considered “high polluting”. Most of the mills have not invested in developing the technology needed to make the process cleaner and more efficient. Warehouses and distribution centers are critical links in the supply chain. Manufacturers rely on well-stocked suppliers to keep inventory moving, track orders accurately and fulfill them quickly. Additionally, due to the limited availability of a workforce, there is an increased need for automation. Yet most companies have neglected to purchase and implement the resources available.

Apex Response

Many customers were planning to see lower prices for steel, wire and many other items needed in the manufacturing process however, this is not what is happening. Instead, we are seeing increases every week in the market. Our suppliers are paying even more than they did at the height of the pandemic. While we are not happy with the ever-increasing prices we have made sure that Apex has material on order to make our customer’s due dates. Sometimes we don’t even know what the price will be when the material is delivered. However, to protect our customers we make sure it is delivered. The Apex team is doing several things in order to keep prices similar to what we paid in 2022 whenever possible. We are increasing amounts purchased, combining materials on incoming trucks to save on freight, and in some cases locking in prices for material already on our service center’s shelves. Our team will continue to think of creative and new ways to keep our pricing level when we can.

Can We Help?

At Apex, we are dedicated to meeting all challenges, including those from the supply chain, head on. We work hard to provide competitive pricing and on time delivery to our customers, and we always will. Can we help with your next project? contact us or request a quote today!

What is an Industrial Spring?

An industrial spring is another name given to a normal spring that is manufactured from metallic or non-metallic material in order to provide support, flexibility, and mobility to industrial equipment, structures, machines, etc. Different types of industrial springs used in creating products, such as watches, telephones, and other consumer electronics, can be made via fast prototyping technologies like 3D printing and CNC machining.

Some of the most popular products include industrial springs in their design. This means it’s necessary to make informed decisions when selecting an industrial spring. From an engineering or technical point of view, springs are mechanical devices that can store energy when force is applied to them. This energy is then released in the form of restoring force that tries to bring the spring back to its equilibrium position. Industrial springs have a plethora of applications due to their unique characteristics and working mechanisms.

Compression Springs

Compression springs are characterized by their resistance to axial compressive forces. They are one of the most prevalent and effective energy-storage springs. A compression spring compresses, or shortens, in response to applied force, storing energy in the process. This energy is released as the spring tries to stretch back to its original length, “pushing back” against the weight. An example of a compression spring is a wave spring.

Extension Springs

Extension springs and tension springs are two terms for springs that can resist tensile forces or pressures that try to pull them apart. They are initially coiled with tension, and when they are lengthened, they attempt to return to their initial shape, which results in a “pulling” force. These springs can be easily linked to elements that need to be kept together by the force of the spring because they have loops or hooks on the ends.

Torsion Springs

In contrast to axial tension or compression forces, torque-resistant applications require the use of torsion springs. Helically wrapped springs with arms on the ends, known as “torsion springs,” spin around their central axis. The arms are attached to the extraneous parts, which provide pressure on the spring. It’s crucial to remember that a torsion spring must only be loaded in a direction that causes the diameter of the spring to shrink. The torsion springs found in clothespins are a typical example.

Advantages of Compression Springs

Compression springs are wound with a constant diameter in various shapes, such as convex, conical, and concave forms. They store energy or resist compressive stress. Regardless of their shape and size, all compressive springs provide the same axial compressive force. This ability is due to their durability and strength and is why they are so widely used.

Prevention of Motion

A major benefit of compressive springs is their ability to prevent the motion of another part or component. This aspect of their properties makes them ideal for controlling and connecting components.

Return

When compression is released from a compression spring, it returns to its initial position. This factor plays a role in their use with other components. As a compression spring returns, it repositions any part or component to which it is attached.

Maintenance-Free

In manufacturing operations, a constant concern is the monitoring of equipment and machinery, which need regularly-scheduled maintenance. This is not true for compression springs. They compress and release without the need for lubrication, maintenance, or monitoring.

Light Weight

One of the reasons for the popularity and general use of compression springs is their light weight and ease of use. Part of the formation of compression springs is the spiraling of steel wire. This form increases the hardness of the wire and gives it greater endurance than it would have as linear wire. Additionally, the metal of a compression spring is heated and cooled, which makes it possible to withstand the demands of heavy loads.

Stability

Of the many advantages of compression springs, their stability and strength is one of their most crucial benefits. While other types of springs may bend or buckle when deflected, compression springs avoid buckling due to their lateral stability.

Affordability

Compression springs are made of inexpensive materials and metals such as steel, which are easily accessible and reasonably priced. Less metal is required to produce compression springs, making them a highly-affordable solution for any application.

In Memory of Mom

Charlotte 1940-2022

Having just lost Mom a few weeks ago after her courageous fight with breast cancer, I know that she would want me to use this Christmas message to accomplish three goals:

• Save a life
• Love your Family
• Recognize the greatest gift from God

Our journey started exactly this time last year when I received the call from Mom’s neighbor that Mom was not well. For the first time in forever, we did not spend Thanksgiving with our Family in Manistee because co-vid was raging. The fear of spreading the virus cost us a year of family time and memories together. As a result, I did not see Mom in person and moms sure can do a great job of hiding what is really going on.

Her Journey With Cancer

I immediately drove from Grand Rapids to Manistee only to find Mom in excruciating pain in her back and very weak. Words could never do justice for the amount of pain she was in. Through a snowstorm and unfortunately every bump in the road we got her to Grand Rapids. Fortunately the hospital admitted her as they were at full capacity with Co-vid patients taking every room possible. We were put in the hallway of a covid floor in the emergency department. They determined that Mom had cancer in her bones and a tumor in her back that was causing this horrible pain. The cancer was traced back to being metastatic hormone receptor+ breast cancer. She had a very large lump and the cancer was stage 4. The doctors worked miracles and were able to perform a procedure that “fried” the tumor and then filled the void with epoxy. It was simply amazing!

The next stop was Mary Free Bed rehabilitation here in Grand Rapids. The staff was so kind and caring that Mom was able to graduate in early January pain free (other than Tylenol PM.) She wanted to go home to spend what time she had left with her friends in Manistee. So, we found an assisted living home for her to move into.

We asked Mom if she had done annual mammograms and how did this cancer happen so fast. Unfortunately, she had been told that after 75 years mammograms were optional. As a result, she decided not to have the testing done.

For the next 11 months Mom had to have infusions and treatments every 3 weeks at the Ludington Cancer Center which is 40 minutes south of Manistee. These treatments basically would eliminate her estrogen and progesterone, because those hormones were feeding the cancer. We understood that this would only buy time as there is no cure for stage 4 breast cancer.

I would drive to Manistee from Grand Rapids then to Ludington and wait for the 3 hour treatment and then take her back to Manistee then back to Grand Rapids. On these days, I would work early before I left, at the Cancer Facility while I waited and then again in the evening when I got back to Apex. All of this was without hesitation for Mom. But, I remember when I thought to myself, how can I make it through this day. Then Mom put everything in prospective. During these trips we had such great time just talking and spending time together. One day she looked at me and said “Dennis there is one good thing about this cancer”. I asked her what in the world are are you talking about and she looked at me and said “I get to see my son more often.”

We continued with the treatments and her neighbors were so helpful in taking her to local appointments and sometimes even to Ludington.

Mom had 11 great months that she was able to spend with her family and friends, and by some miracle, she spent it all pain free. She died peacefully on November 9th. And by God’s grace, the pain she was so scared that would come back, never did.

Life, Love, and The Greatest Gift

So this message is for you Mom, and we know we can make it count and make a difference. If we accomplish just one of the following it was worth the journey you had.

Save a life – Mom stopped getting Mammograms. Please for all the women do not stop this yearly task no matter what age you are. Breast Cancer with early detection is one of the most curable cancers! As a matter of fact, many people because of co-vid stopped doing their annual tests for so many health needs. Please get back on track as prevention or early detection is the difference between life and death.

Love your Family – The holiday season is the greatest time to spend time with your Family. We never know what God’s plan is for us and we should recognize how precious our time is and how much love we have for each other. I know that we will miss Mom so much this Christmas. I encourage you to take this Christmas to spend time with your family, and make lasting memories.

Recognize the gift – Most importantly, I hope you know that God gave us the greatest gift of all time. It is not something you earn. It is not a right. It is simply a free gift from Him! God gave his only Son to die for us. Jesus Christ is our Savior. All we have to do is BELIEVE.

The Apex team wishes everyone a Merry Christmas! Make it the best one ever!

Dennis K. Bhaskaran – CEO

Introducing Our Newest Press

Our team makes every effort to continue to adapt to meet the needs of our customers. That’s what commitment and strong relationships look like. A recent area of growth is in our press department. Added to our team is a brand new 250 ton press (made by AIDI). We’re pretty excited about this new addition and we thought you might be too.

How This Changes Things

Earlier this year, our team recognized the need and opportunity to expand our metal stamping capabilities with bigger press. So, once we decided on the machine and where it would be located, we started demolition on the plant floor. It was necessary to pour a new 18” concrete slab to support it’s weight. After all, it weighs approximately 72,000 lbs. It also features a 106” bolster. That’s almost double the size of our bolster on the next largest press. Obviously this larger bed allows us to take on larger more complex parts that require larger dies with more stations. Additionally, this means more capabilities and efficiencies.

We Are Here to Help

We’d love to share more with you about our new capabilities and how the new press changes things for us and our customers. Projects we may not have been able to do in the past, are now possible. Therefore, whatever you have coming up in the future, we’d love to help. Get the conversation started by Requesting A Quote or Contacting Us today.

The Apex Approach to Selecting Material

Our team understands the importance of selecting the right material for a project. It can have a huge impact on success. Therefore we take necessary steps to ensure we source properly for each project we work on. The following are several of the most frequently asked questions related to selecting material for your project.

How do we begin the selection process?

First, in order to determine the most relevant material for the application, we ask a variety of questions, including the following:

• What is the operating temperature for the product?
• Will the component have cyclical stress or static Loading?
• What type of environment will the product be exposed to in its normal conditions?
• How long do you expect the product to last?

All of these questions are very important. But in addition to these, we must consider the current 2022 market conditions because it has led to one of the most important questions. Is the material available for purchase? Because of worldwide shortages caused by Geo-Political upheaval, some material is not readily available. Furthermore, finding “Like” material is difficult. Because products are designed in different areas of the world, specifications are different. For example, material from the Pacific Rim might be completely different from a European product design. Therefore we understand the importance of cross-referencing “like” materials. It can be tricky and sometimes downright dangerous in certain applications. You can be assured that our team has the necessary experience, and dedication, to successfully consider all factors and find the right material for the application.

What are the consequences making the wrong selection?

Product failure is the most catastrophic result of sourcing material failure. But most of the time, testing of the finished product will weed out any bad selections.

Cost overruns is the next risk of not sourcing the right material. Apex for a long period of time did not index its material purchased and had a tough time of it with the material run-up in 2021 and 2022. We now index our materials and have gotten customers to buy into the process. If you are not indexing the material, free fall will make it almost impossible to provide a competitive price, or stay in business long.

Inability to find the material is another risk. Today, longer lead times are not uncommon. For example, 24 to 48 weeks might be the lead time just to get the material. But it is nearly impossible for a supplier to plan out that long for demand on projects. Therefore alternatives need to be investigated and confirmed to prevent this from happening.

Our team considers all these factors and works hard to prevent any negative consequences.

When is the right time to make decisions about the material?

Planning for the material selection should be done upfront in the design stages. Also, consulting with us is one of the most important decisions any customer can make.

We recognize that this makes it difficult for the supply chain that wants to competitively bid out the product to multiple suppliers. Apex has always been committed to making our pricing the most competitive. But, upfront consulting is hard to do when the product has not been awarded to a supplier. Our customers trust us and know that the Engineering consultation will pay dividends in the long run with a strong partnership. For example, we have developed long and strong relationships with many of our spring customers.

A good design and material selection means you have a much better chance of getting on-time deliveries with great quality, at a competitive price. This is done with us involved up front in the design process, through prototyping, and other tools into production.

The Apex Commitment

We have always had the attitude that we are here to partner with our customers, and serve them in any way we can. This includes selecting the right material for every project. Call anyone at our company, and they will go out of their way to help you, even though it might not be their department or responsibility. This is a top-down attitude that has made the culture at Apex a great place to work. We are passionate about springs, stampings, wire forms, and assembly, and that is our expertise. Why not let us help you with your program or problem? As usual, the first question we always ask is, “How can we help?”

Contact us or request a quote today to get the conversation started!

Why Prototype?

A prototype provides specifications for a real, working system rather than a theoretical one. By definition, a prototype is an early sample, model, or pre-release of a product built to test a concept or process. So, why is it valuable? Well, developing pre-production parts serves as proof of concept. It also makes sure a part is feasible to manufacture and feasible to produce. A well-thought design will fit the category of these things:

• Cost Effective Manufacturing Process
• Ease of assembly
• Ease of Tooling
• Reduction in Tooling changes and costs to change hard tooling
• Reduction in scrap by optimization of blank or material

Who Should Prototype & Where To Go?

Many OEM companies go to prototype shops to help develop a part for their products. Unfortunately, many of those shops have no interest in whether or not the part is feasible to manufacture (DFM = design for manufacturing). They have no concept or experience in developing a production process. So, they make the parts as is, and you are stuck with the development that is not manufacturable. This is why it is wise to use a production house, like Apex Spring and Stamping. Our strong development team provides engineering services to develop a cost-effective sample that is easy to manufacture.

When to Prototype

The best time to do prototypes is when you are in the design and development stage of any project. Often, the spring product is overlooked. We may need to fit the overstressed part into a tight space, and if not properly developed, we are typically set up for design failure. Doing a prototype can avoid this failure.

NOTE: The most important thing to ask a spring designer: How much space do you need to make this design a success?

A Story of Prototype Success

Apex is always pleased when prototyping leads to success for our customers. A great example is a story about one of our customers who was developing a consumer product. They came to us with the complex stamped metal part. They invited us into the development stage, and we worked for 6 months to develop a cap and base for a personal hygiene product. Early development resulted in a reduction in tooling changes and the feasibility of forming the correct material for the correct application.

The following describes many of the elements that contributed to the development of this unique consumer product.

Material Selection

The material selection was critical for this product. A stainless steel was selected based on its ability to polish, and keep from rusting in a very tough environment. This was a consumer product that was exposed to harsh chemicals and moisture with a high susceptibility to rust in a bathroom environment. Also, this product needs to be portable in backpacks, purses, or utility bags.

Initial Scanning and 3d Printing in Plastic

Experienced Sales and Engineering Team Provides Exceptional Solutions

Since 1977, the Apex Spring and Stamping team has worked hard to solve customers’ challenges, including challenges in engineering.  It takes an entire company effort to provide the final product, be on time and exceed expectations. But kicking off that process is our dedicated group of sales engineers and their team. Many of our customers depend on us to help design and engineer their products. This service is one of the things that sets us apart from our competitors. Our team is highly skilled, and truly excels in providing a valuable design to make products a success. 

Working with our Engineering Team

The goal of the sales and engineering team is to provide you with knowledge and solutions. Their job is to act as a consultant and partner.  They access your needs through listening, asking questions, and finally they provide recommendations. The team’s priority is to provide information to help you make the best decision for your project. Throughout the process they are dedicated to keeping you informed. This partnership is part of what makes Apex’s relationships strong and long lasting. 

Added Value

The following are several examples of the partnership experience our team provides. These are ways we put your needs first, deliver on our promises, and provide superior service and solutions.

Material Science

At times, our team will encourage you to consider alternative material.  We may recommend you go to a stronger wire for your spring requirement because we feel the chosen material might get over stressed. Our knowledge in material science says we have a duty and responsibility to inform you. We want the product to be a success.

On-time delivery

We are committed to delivering your product on time. This includes clear communication of needs and deadlines. Our ability to deliver is one of our competitive strengths.  It definitely separates us from our competition.  

Keeping You Informed and Following Up

Communication is key, and we are committed to keeping you informed.  We will contact you and confirm you received the CAD drawings.  We will ask about final quantities so we are able to quote accurately.  Also, during the process we may recognize an opportunity to save valuable time and money.  When this happens we’ll let you know.  For instance, it may be wise to consider having Apex assemble the final project that includes parts from Apex and from other vendors. Whatever the situation, we’ll stay connected and communicate regularly. 

Meet The Team

Leading Apex’s charge in providing exceptional service are three Apex sales engineers.  They take the time to listen to customer needs, and provide the right solution. The team also works together often to critically think, troubleshoot, brainstorm, and problem solve.  All together, a strong team, working to build solid relationships, and high quality products.  The following will introduce you to our key sales engineer team members.