Alcomex

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1. Skroller S.L. introduces the folding backrest

   01/03/2024 15:17 Comments Off on Skroller S.L. introduces the folding backrest

   

   Innovation in electric scooters

   Skroller S.L., founded in 2019 in Valencia, has made a revolutionary development in the world of electric scooters. They have developed and patented the world’s first foldable and portable backrest that not only improves control, stability and comfort, but also reduces the risk of accidents and injuries, significantly improving the user experience.

   Strong construction for maximum safety

   Skroller’s backrest is designed with a sturdy steel core, thick tape and a scooter mount that has been extensively tested in laboratory conditions. This makes it extremely resistant to all kinds of impacts, allowing users to ride with confidence knowing they are well protected.

   Adapting to different user weights

   One of the challenges Skroller faced was designing a motor spring that could accommodate different weights of users while maintaining the functionality and purpose of the product. This meant providing less risk of accidents and injuries, as well as more comfort while riding the electric scooter.

   Collaboration for innovation: Skroller and Alcomex Springs Group

   Skroller has worked closely with the Alcomex Springs Group to develop a small cylinder mechanism with an extendable strap that acts as a backrest when attached to the user’s waist. This mechanism is designed to automatically retract when the bar is approached, allowing the rider to safely recline and relax while riding.

   To the production phase: series production on the way

   After months of hard work and development of several prototypes, Skroller is now about to start series production of the first 5,000 units of their innovative folding backrest. It is an exciting moment for the team, which believes in the power of innovation combined with the expertise of the Alcomex Springs Group.

   Prospect for success

    “Our technical teams are working with Alcomex Muelles’ technical team to improve and develop the final functional model of the power spring for the Skroller. This will allow us to launch a series in the coming weeks and build a good professional relationship for new solutions in the future,” said Sergey Kazakov, CEO of Skroller belt. With great teamwork and a promising future ahead, Skroller S.L. looks confidently toward the launch of their breakthrough product. This foldable backrest promises to provide electric scooter users with a whole new riding experience that puts safety, stability and comfort first.

   Send in your challenge

2. 70 years of HZ Solutions

   23/01/2024 09:15 Comments Off on 70 years of HZ Solutions

   

   The Beginnings of HZ Solutions

   In 1953 the foundation was laid for what is now known as HZ Solutions. Founded at the time as “Metalware Factory Het Zuiden,” the company has gone through several owners since then. An important milestone was reached in 2018 when HZ Solutions was incorporated into the Alcomex Springs Group, marking the start of a new chapter in its rich history.

   

   Specialist in spring solutions

   For more than seventy years, HZ Solutions has been known as a specialist in developing creative solutions to customer-specific spring issues. Its dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction has given the company a leading position in the industry.

   A Festive Jubilee

   Last summer, HZ Solutions’ 70th anniversary was celebrated in a big way. It was a special moment for the company, and for some it also marked the beginning of a new career at HZ Solutions. The festivities took place at a beautiful location in the middle of nature, where the weather showed its best side with temperatures above 25 degrees and bright sunshine.

   

   

   Festive Activities

   The afternoon began with a warm welcome accompanied by coffee and cake. Whereafter everyone was divided into two groups for a series of fun activities, including old Dutch games such as hanging jeans, throwing horseshoes, a bathtub race, archery and laser gaming. The diversity of activities provided an unprecedented dose of fanaticism among the participants.

   A Culinary Treat

   After these exhilarating activities, which made us feel hungry, it was time for a delicious, elaborate meal full of tasty dishes for all attendees. The culinary delight provided the perfect opportunity for informal conversations and strengthening team spirit.

   A Lasting Memory

   Although the evening progressed and some returned home, no one left empty-handed. Everyone received a nice memento of the anniversary and the successful afternoon and evening. For many this event was not only a celebration of the past, but also an opportunity to get to know colleagues better and build for the future together. On to the next 70 years.

   Are you curious how Alcomex and/or HZ Solutions can help you with your spring issue?

   Send you challenge

3. Welcome to Alcomex Springs at the R&T Fair 2024 in Stuttgart!

   11/01/2024 13:12 Comments Off on Welcome to Alcomex Springs at the R&T Fair 2024 in Stuttgart!

   Dear customers and business partners,

   We are pleased to invite you to the R&T Fair 2024, which will take place from 19.02.2024 to 23.02.2024 in Stuttgart. As a leading expert in the door industry, we proudly present our latest innovations, high-quality products and customer-oriented services in Hall 10 – Stand B72.

   Discover the world of the door industry:

   R&T Messe 2024 is the leading trade fair for the door industry in Europe, and Alcomex will of course be there. Find out more about the latest trends, products and developments in the industry. Our stand offers you a comprehensive insight into our door springs.

   Alcomex – your reliable partner:

   Alcomex is one of the largest manufacturers of spring solutions for sectional doors in the world and is known for its just-in-time service, high quality, technical expertise and efficient and innovative solutions. For the past year, Alcomex has also been active on the North American market for door springs. As a result, Alcomex is growing as a manufacturer and can also demonstrate that there is an increasing global demand for solutions from a partner like Alcomex.

   We are committed to delighting our customers and exceeding their expectations for the planet, the people and the product. Exceeding expectations, as we call it at Alcomex.

   Customers rate Alcomex even more positively for the 5th year in a row

   Don’t just take our word for it, our customers have also rated us for the fifth consecutive year through an NPS score survey (this is a survey that asks customers if they are satisfied with Alcomex on key KPI factors and if they would recommend Alcomex. Our NPS score is 62. This means that our existing customers are more satisfied with Alcomex year on year.

   Our highlights at the R&T Fair 2024:

   • More than 25,000 finished doorsprings (shot peened & powder coated with tension & fixed head);
   • We ship your spring on the day of order (standard dimensions);
   • In stock in all possible standard sizes up to 12 [mm] wire thickness;
   • All common lengths up to 3250 [mm] in stock, for in-house processing of your required lengths;
   • We can also supply galvanized and untreated wire on request;
   • Of course, we can also manufacture any spring on request and to special dimensions;
   • In addition to torsion torsion springs, you can also obtain tension springs from us.

   Alcomex torsion springs App

   Alcomex launched the Alcomex torsion springs app just this year. Alcomex has developed a tool that allows all customers to quickly and easily generate an Alcomex product code at any location based on the required spring properties. We will be happy to show and tell you more at the trade fair!

   The guiding theme of R&T 2024 is: Create. Sustainable. Future. TogetheR&T.

   The Alcomex Springs Group is also investing in a sustainable future. We have chosen a step-by-step approach in which CO2 reduction is a central aspect of Alcomex’s strategy. Our targets are in line with those of the Paris Agreement and we aim to reduce the Alcomex Group’s CO2 emissions by 5% per year. This process involves the following steps:

   • Collecting data for all subsidiaries and calculating CO2 emissions.
   • Determining which part of the company can achieve CO2 neutrality over time.
   • Setting CO2 reduction targets in line with the Paris Agreement.
   • Implementing internal emission reduction measures such as energy efficiency programs.
   • Communicating an authentic, clear and credible message to all stakeholders.

   Visit us in person:

   Visit our stand and let us convince you of our uncomplicated and strongly customer-oriented corporate philosophy. For decades, we have maintained our peat spring quality at a high level that is a matter of course for us. We not only offer you high-quality products, but also first-class customer service. Fast processing of inquiries and speedy delivery are a matter of course for us.

   We look forward to welcoming you in person!

   • 19.02.2024 to 23.02.2024
   • Hall 10 – Stand B72
   • Trade fair Stuttgart

   We are proud to be part of the R&T Messe 2024 and hope to welcome you at our stand. Visit us, discover the world of the door industry and find out why Alcomex is your reliable partner.

   See you in person at the R&T Fair 2024!

   Best regards,

   The Alcomex team

   

4. The Role of the Alcomex Group in Railway

   22/11/2023 14:30 Comments Off on The Role of the Alcomex Group in Railway

   

   Our modern society literally and figuratively moves on rails, and the Alcomex Group is at the frontline of progress in the railroad industry. In a world of safety and innovation, Alcomex plays a crucial role in optimizing our railroads and trains.

   The Growing Challenge of Railways

   The constant growth of rail passengers is putting pressure on our rail network and train infrastructure. Despite numerous expansion efforts in recent years, it is clear that more is needed to accommodate this growing demand.

   Alcomex in Action: Project at Kijfhoek

   In 2023, the Alcomex group, in cooperation with Kampa International, completed an impressive project at the Kijfhoek shunting yard between Barendrecht and Zwijndrecht. It involved the implementation of a new rail attachment, specifically adapted to the changes in trolleys at the Kijfhoek. This adaptation not only complied with the European guidelines for rail fastening systems (EN 13149 – 1 to 8), but also created the required space between the fastening and the rails.

   

   

   A Reliable Partner in the Railway Segment

   In recent years, the Alcomex group has strengthened its reputation as a reliable partner in the railway segment. One of the important focus areas is noise reduction. In accordance with an announcement to the European Parliament and the Council, which emphasizes the need to reduce noise levels to reduce health damage, Alcomex has patented innovative solutions.

   Innovation for Noise Reduction

   The Alcomex group’s patented innovations demonstrate not only manufacturing advantages, but also significant price advantages over existing leaf spring applications. Attaching noise reducing material to the rails is not only a technological breakthrough, but also an economically responsible choice.

   Future With Alcomex

   Are you interested in the leading solutions of the Alcomex group? We are ready to welcome your inquiries and introduce you to the innovative future of the rail industry. Together we move forward, in a safe and efficient way.

   Take a look at the springs

5. VIOD Invests in Enhanced Grinding Technology

   20/09/2023 09:04 Comments Off on VIOD Invests in Enhanced Grinding Technology

   

   VIOD is witnessing a substantial growth in the share of industrial springs, particularly in the domain of thick wire diameters exceeding 18mm. The evolving quality demands from customers necessitate a careful consideration of the appropriate technology that ensures both efficiency and cost savings.

   The older grinding technology, which VIOD has relied on for years and proven to be effective, is now being reevaluated due to changing market conditions and increased price competitiveness. Efficiencies in setup times, cycle times, and maintenance are crucial. This presents an excellent opportunity for VIOD to invest in new machines boasting significantly improved technology compared to their older counterparts. These advanced machines operate intelligently, allowing us to process more springs simultaneously or manufacture springs that other companies are incapable of producing.

   New Dry Grinding Machine with Advanced Programming Capabilities

   There is a specific demand for ground industrial compression springs. Last year, the grinding shop invested in a state-of-the-art dry grinding machine, the OMD MA-16 7000, to replace the outdated OMD MA-16 7000. The latter machine had been in use for 30 years and was still operating on MS-DOS control, limiting its programming capabilities. With the acquisition of the new machine, we now have the ability to create far more sophisticated programs. The ability to control the 2 grinding discs at varying speeds means that we no longer need to turn the springs over at the end of the cycle. Additionally, the refined technology in the new machine has led to a 60% reduction in grinding wheel consumption. The outdated hydraulic and pneumatic systems have been replaced by servo motors, allowing for much more precise and accurate programming.

   

   Introduction of the New Wet Grinding Machine

   Another wet grinder is set to be delivered to VIOD later this year, replacing the 2 old wet grinding machines that have been in service since the early 1970s. Once again, we have chosen an OMD machine—the OMD H-80. This new grinder enables us to grind springs with an outer diameter of up to 330mm, a significant improvement from the previous limit of 250mm. Moreover, this machine adopts the same user-friendly software philosophy as the other OMD grinding machines, facilitating smoother rotation of employees and enhancing their motivation to work with these new machines.

   In June 2023, we organized an on-site drivers’ meeting for the first time. Managing Director Lesjöfors Fjädrar AB Jan Carlson and Managing Director Lesjöfors Heavy Springs UK Micheal Gibbs were esteemed guests at VIOD. Based on the shared experiences during this meeting, it became evident that OMD is the preferred supplier of grinding machines. OMD’s superior price-quality ratio and excellent service ultimately surpass those offered by alternative manufacturers such as Dorn.

   Given the burgeoning demand for polished springs and the increasing competition from the Asian market, technology plays a crucial role in maintaining competitiveness. VIOD is enthusiastic about contributing to the growing demand for larger and thicker springs at our facility in Breukelen.

6. New Tension Springs Centre in Poland

   06/09/2023 15:51 Comments Off on New Tension Springs Centre in Poland

   Sales Forecast and Expansion Plans

   Since 2016, Alcomex has been growing its share in tension springs for residential doors. The Board of Alcomex Springs Group has prepared the sales forecast for years 2022-2025. Sales of tension springs are expected to quadruple in the coming years. Based on this projection, the decision was made to split the production of door springs in Marki into separate units for torsion and tension springs. To accommodate this growth, a new location was invested in to enable the production and assembly of tension springs.

   Lease Agreement and Conversion Works

   At the end of November, the Lease Agreement was signed for renting a 5320 square meters warehouse area and office area in a building with a total area of approximately 38500 square meters. The building, known as ‘Hall B’, is located in Marki, just 500m away from our current location. The early access to the new facility was granted from 01.02.2023. From that time, all necessary works must be done to convert the warehouse area into a primarily production area for tension springs.

   Conversion Works Details

   The conversion works involve various tasks, including:

   1. Extension of the main electrical switchboard according to Alcomex energy requirements.

   2. Installation of proper lighting in the production area up to 500 lux.

   3. Delivery and installation of 14 skylights with ventilation function, a weather control unit, and a necessary sprinkler system.

   4. Construction of new forklift charging stations equipped with gas detection and sprinkler system.

   5. Installation of radiant heaters to create a comfortable working environment.

   6. Conversion of existing office rooms into changing rooms and social areas.

   Completion of Adaptation Works

   In mid-May, all fit-out works were completed, and all necessary notifications, agreements, and approvals from relevant authorities were obtained. As a result, on 29.05.2023, the Protocol of Completion of Adaptation Works was signed. With this milestone achieved, additional tasks such as the installation of the piping air system and the transfer of two air compressors from Hall D could begin. Furthermore, all necessary equipment, including lockers, benches for changing rooms, office furniture, desks, printers, and kitchen equipment, were purchased to provide a comfortable environment for our employees during breaks.

   

   Cooperation with Czech Republic and Equipment Transfer

   In addition to the expansion in Poland, we have initiated closer cooperation with our colleagues from the Czech Republic, as some production will be transferred from there. The first training session took place in Brno, where our employees familiarized themselves with the production process for tension springs, which will be transferred to our new center.

   Operational Timeline and Customer Deliveries

   The transfer of the current production equipment to the new center is scheduled for mid-June, followed by the transfer of additional machines and tooling equipment from the Czech Republic in July. Our goal is to have the new tension spring center in Poland fully operational from the first of September this year, enabling us to deliver our products (springs) to customers all over Europe.

7. Constant Force Spring: Technical Advantages

   09/08/2023 16:40 Comments Off on Constant Force Spring: Technical Advantages

   Our know-how in the field of Constant Force Spring dates back to the beginning of the 20^th century.

   At Alcomex Springs, we are proud to offer our expertise in the constant force spring, a mechanism that provides a multitude of technical advantages. This innovative solution is more compact and lighter than most other methods of return or retraction, making it an ideal choice for many industries.The constant force spring is designed to provide a smooth and constant load over its entire length of travel, eliminating the need for deadweights, linkages, cylinders, and other systems. This feature alone can significantly decrease the size and cost of devices, making it an attractive option for manufacturers looking to optimize their products.

   Our constant force springs and assemblies are used in countless applications across various industries. For instance, in the aeronautics industry, we develop Jet and cargo door opening and closing assistance systems, which are critical for ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel.

   

   In the green energy sector, we are actively working on cable retraction assistance solutions for electric vehicle chargers, enabling more convenient and efficient charging for electric vehicles. We also provide solutions for the POS, defense, equipment, and health industries, among others.

   One of the reasons we differentiate ourselves from our competitors is our ability to produce custom springs and sub-assemblies tailored to meet our clients’ specific needs. Our team of experts is always ready to collaborate with clients, providing guidance and support in developing innovative solutions that exceed their expectations.

   In conclusion, the constant force spring is a versatile and reliable mechanism with many technical advantages that can improve the performance and efficiency of devices across various industries. At Alcomex Springs, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions and outstanding customer service. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help bring your projects to life.

8. Production monitoring at Alcomex Spring Works

   09/07/2023 10:53 Comments Off on Production monitoring at Alcomex Spring Works

   In the Alcomex Springs Group, we are continuously looking at ways to improve our production performance and efficiency, to exceed the expectations of our customers through operational excellence. As an example of that ambition, last year we successfully completed a pilot project for monitoring machine performance by applying the ‘Act-in MES’-system at Alcomex Springs Works in the Czech Republic. The goal was to get to know and test the possibilities of the offered system and its suitability for our type of production. As part of the pilot, two production machines (FUL36 and FUL46) were connected, allowing these to send information about status (in operation or not working), the number of pieces produced and the number of non-conforming products. These data are transmitted over the internal network to the core of the system, which allows us to monitor in real time the status of individual production orders on these machines.

   

   

   The core of the system consists of several interconnected modules. The “Production Scheduler” module is used for detailed planning of production orders. Individual production orders are loaded directly from our ABRA information system and assigned to the production plan for each machine, using a simple Drag & Drop functionality. This tool allows planners to monitor the workload of individual workplaces and, thanks to the online connection with the given machine, determine the expected end of production. Planned jobs are subsequently displayed on the operator panel directly at the individual machines.

   Another integral part is the “Performance Monitoring” module, for online monitoring of the utilization and condition of machines, their effective use according to the OEE indicator, the progress of orders and the work of operators. The key to this module is the on-line connection of machines to the system through which we can monitor in real time the start and ends of downtime, the cause, production cycles, production speed and the number of approved and non-approved products, including the causes of discrepancies.

   Part of the installed package is an operator panel (one for both machines), which is used to log in to exchange or enter information regarding the progress of individual orders.

   

   Implementation Progress and Expected Benefit

   As part of this pilot project, the suitability of this software for our type of production has been verified, and our comments and software modifications are currently being implemented to allow us to apply this system to more of our machines. Meanwhile, preparations for automatic booking of performances on individual machines are in progress and the commissioning of visualization screens in the production areas is also part of the implementation.We are convinced that this tool will allow us to improve the quality of the production processes within Alcomex. Also, thanks to the visibility of each individual production indicator, we will increase awareness and involvement of Alcomex production people in continuous improvement of our operation. In the end, our loyal customers worldwide will profit from this upgraded production performance.

9. HZ Solutions is preparing for the future, opting for reliability and efficiency with a new deburring and polishing machine from Rösler.

   24/04/2023 15:54 Comments Off on HZ Solutions is preparing for the future, opting for reliability and efficiency with a new deburring and polishing machine from Rösler.

   

   HZ Solutions b.v. is a company based in the south of the Netherlands, in Hilvarenbeek. HZ Solutions specialises in developing spring and fastening solutions for customers. This means helping the customer by developing new solutions to their problems and providing custom solutions. The products developed by HZ Solutions, such as wire, die-cutting and fastening products, are produced in-house from the drawing board using extensive technical knowledge and experience. To serve customers well, it is vital that HZ Solutions has the right technology and is ready for the future.

   To ensure they stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, HZ Solutions decided to replace their rotary vibrating deburring machine from Rösler. This machine has been in use for a long time, but could no longer operate independently due to the increasing volume of deburring work. It was therefore necessary to invest in a new machine.

   After careful research and comparison, HZ Solutions again chose a machine from the Rösler brand. The existing machine has been overhauled and prepared for the future. By investing in both the existing and a new deburring/polishing machine, capacity has been greatly expanded. This allows HZ Solutions to continue to support customers in developing new solutions. To automate the process as much as possible, a conveyor belt was also installed between the deburring/polishing machine and the dryer. This allows products to be transported automatically. See attached drawing and photos.

   Besides promoting work capacity, HZ Solutions has also paid due attention to creating a safer working environment for their employees. For instance, lids have been fitted to reduce dust emissions and noise levels as much as possible. And investments were made in an extraction system for both the new deburring area and the post-treatment areas. This extraction will extract the remaining dust, vapour and smoke as much as possible, as well as the paint fumes and welding fumes in the heat treatment room. Through these measures, HZ Solutions has facilitated better working conditions. 

   

   

   

   Deburring and polishing plant is installed.

   We are very pleased that the new deburring and polishing plant is now installed. Below you will find some technical data of the new Rösler deburring/polishing machine type R 125 EC and the Naaykens extractor series 510, type B:

   Rösler deburring/polishing machine type R 125 EC:

   –     extremely hard-wearing, hot-moulded Rösler polyurethane coating, allowing HZ to produce trouble-free for years without additional maintenance costs

   –     manual separation slide, ensures damage-free separation, even for sensitive products

   –     in combination with the quickly removable separator slide, EC-type deburring machines are more universal

   –     more flexible use than machines with a permanently installed separation flap, also allowing larger products to be handled

   Naaykens extractor series 510, type B:

   –         direct drive. Impeller mounted on motor shaft.

   –         suction-only centrifugal fan

   –         vertical discharge via various filters

   –         extraction capacity: 2,600 m³/h

   –         noise level: 49 dB(A)

   Paint vapour & weld fume extraction:

   –         working range: 2 m, diameter extraction arm 160 mm

   –         extraction capacity: 850 m³/h

   –         noise level: 67 dB(A)

   –         HEPA filters allow the filtered warm air to be blown back into the room, preventing heat loss in the room

   For more information about HZ Solutions, please refer to our website: www.hzsolutions.com

10. Manufacturing expansion in Alcomex India will also supply the US door spring market

    21/03/2023 14:46 Comments Off on Manufacturing expansion in Alcomex India will also supply the US door spring market

    

    Alcomex will supply in the US (United States of America)

    In the US, almost every American house has a garage. Therefore, the market for residential overhead garage doors is enormous in this continent. Together with an increasing demand for overhead doors from the industrial building sector, the American door spring market is about four times larger than in Europe. This is an opportunity that Alcomex will make good use of. Alcomex India will supply doorsprings in the US.

    The manufacture of door springs is an important expertise that the Alcomex Group holds. Alcomex is manufacturing both standardized and customized torsion and tension door springs. The custom-made door springs are manufactured in the Dutch city of Opmeer and Marki, Poland.

    

    Standard door spring production 

    Since 2008 Alcomex has manufactured standardized door springs in Pune, India, where the Indian subsidiary owns a 10,000 square meter industrial site. Most of the produced volume is exported to Europe. The Indian factory has experienced constant growth since the start and annually, producing approximately one third of our global volume of door springs. The facility employs about 90 highly skilled workers who work in two-shift.

    

    New production line and warehouse

    Alcomex has made a major investment in India to expand the manufacturing and warehouse in order to take advantage of the potential in the US market. In the second quarter of 2023, a new production line will be taken into use. There will be new coiling and shaping & assembly machines as well as lines for painting, powder coating, printing and waxing to mention a few of the new machinery and equipment. At the end of the year, a new-built warehouse of 2,500 square meters is also ready to stock the door springs before shipping. The expansion will of course bring many new job opportunities.

    

    Jelle van Vliet & Conrad Hietink, MD’s of Alcomex comment on the investments:

    The size of the investment in India is about 1.9 MEUR and will more than double our capacity, opening the way for a successful entry in the North American market.