The International Independent Centre of Excellence for Spring Technology

SMALL BENT WIRE COMPONENTS – WILLIAM HUGHES PROVIDES THE SOLUTION PDF Print E-mail

William Hughes is used to making complex wire components, so when the company was asked to manufacture a threaded linkhook with many bends, the design and engineering team quickly responded to the challenge. Designed for use in the diesel pumps used in lorries and cars, the small component starts off as a piece of wire just 117.4mm long which has to meet precise dimensional tolerances.

Based on 2.6mm diameter length of annealed steel wire, the component passes through five different processes before it is ready to use. The first stage is to form a hook at one end and a chamfer on the other using a rotary table, six stage blanking machine. The partly formed component then moves to a thread cutting machine where a 20mm long thread (4 x 40 UNC) is cut on the chamfered end.

The partly formed linkhook is then subject to a press bend and two hand bends to form the precise shape required before being case hardened in a special sealed quenched furnace. The components are then checked for accuracy to the correct dimensions and specification using high technology inspection equipment.

William Hughes has been making bent wire components and springs for over 200 years and continues to expand its range of products, processes and finishes, which now include shot peening, and the Delta® Tone and Delta® Seal coating processes. The company also offers an electrophoretic paint process which provides a black, gloss finish which is popular in the automotive industry.

William Hughes specialises in problem solving for its customers and has the technical resources to help its customers design and manufacturing a range of bent wire components, as well as helping to solve a wide range of engineering and design challenges.

A rapid design and prototyping service is available for wire products including springs and bent wire components. Quality systems to ISO 9001: 2000, ISO/TS 16949: 2002, the latest automotive standard and AS9100 for aerospace ensure consistency and accuracy of supply and by investing in the latest CNC machines and quality procedures, William Hughes assures continuity of supply.