Alcomex

Tag Archive: veren

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. 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

4. 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.

5. VIOD has become part of the Alcomex Group

   21/10/2019 14:57 Comments Off on VIOD has become part of the Alcomex Group

   

   
   

   To the employees, customers and suppliers of Alcomex

   On October the 18^th 2019 an important transfer took place. VIOD Verenfabriek B.V. has become part of the Alcomex Group. Merss. Ben van Nieuwkerk en Barrie Goenee will remain the Managing Directors of VIOD. We are very pleased that VIOD is joining the Alcomex Group.

   It has been our preference to take over a company which is complementary to Alcomex, creating a strong combination with added value and security for employees, customers and suppliers. The combination of Alcomex and VIOD is strong because both companies complement each other very well with regard to both technical and production knowledge as well as the product market combinations in which both companies are active.

   A transfer at VIOD was to be expected because both Mr. Van Nieuwkerk and Mr. Goenee have no natural successor in their families and, after respectively 37 and 20 years of building  VIOD into what it is today, they wished to transfer their responsibilities timely in order to secure further expansion and internationalization.

   We have known Ben van Nieuwkerk and Barrie Goenee for some time now and we are impressed how they, together with all employees, have successfully transformed VIOD into a solid technical company in recent years with an excellent reputation in the market.

   VIOD will continue as an independent company within the Alcomex Group, and we are convinced it has a bright future with its present organization, location and name.

   We are pleased that Ben van Nieuwkerk and Barrie Goenee will remain actively involved with VIOD in the coming years, so as to ensure a smooth and thorough transition and to further grow VIOD.

   We would like to stress that the success of VIOD has been built thanks to the effort and help of its employees, customers, suppliers and other business relations.

   With confidence we look forward to a continuous successful collaboration with all stakeholders of VIOD and Alcomex. You can find more information on VIOD on www.viodveren.nl.

   Best regards,

   Jelle van Vliet and Conrad Hietink

6. Risk management through Failure Mode Effects Analysis

   14/10/2019 10:16 Comments Off on Risk management through Failure Mode Effects Analysis

   

   
   

   Lately, we are being increasingly confronted with Failure Mode Effect Analysis (also known as FMEAs). An FMEA is a system for analysing the design of a product or system, for the purpose of identifying potential product or system errors and then taking steps to prevent these (i.e. risk management).

   Identifying failure

   All FMEA processes start with identifying “failure modes”, so the way in which a product/process code fails. For us in the springs industry, these “failure modes” come down to identifying the effect of when a spring breaks or simply stops working over time.

   FMEA was a fairly new concept for Alcomex, but now that we are becoming increasingly involved in making customer-specific springs and thinking with the customer about a system solution, it is becoming ever more important. That is why FMEA has become increasingly central within Alcomex and Alcomex has mastered the “language” of FMEA. This enables Alcomex to better determine Risk Priority Numbers (RPN) within spring projects.

   RPN = (Severity) x (Frequency of occurrence) x (Likelihood of detection)

   • Severity: How severe is the failure?
   • Frequency of occurrence: How often can this occur?
   • Likelihood of detection: How likely is it that they are noticed when they occur?

   Advising customers regarding their spring solution

   BY performing an FMEA, we show customers which failures/errors have the greatest impact on the design, which are unlikely to be identified and what Alcomex can offer as a solution for prevention.

   The engineers within the Technology department of Alcomex describe FMEA projects as “super fun to do”. It allows them to dive very deep into the technology, whereby broad professional knowledge and expertise are crucial. Of course, we want to keep things clear at the core, which is why we focus on KISS (keep it stupid simple).