About Us

The Experts in Springs

We are a unique centre of excellence for spring technology, advising and supporting businesses in every aspect of the spring supply chain.

We help companies design and manufacture safe, effective and reliable springs through our software, failure analysis and problem-solving, testing services, professional training programs and membership.

Support, Knowledge & Insight

​Based in Sheffield in the United Kingdom, we have a rich history stretching back to 1942, with an exceptional reputation for metallurgy and steel-making knowledge.

Our dedicated team brings unrivalled experience to each facet of our business—with a specialisation in springs, we offer technical insight and expertise that no other organisation can offer, putting us right at the heart of the global spring making industry.

Support, Knowledge & Insight

​Based in Sheffield in the United Kingdom, we have a rich history stretching back to 1942, with an exceptional reputation for metallurgy and steel-making knowledge.

Our dedicated team brings unrivalled experience to each facet of our business—with a specialisation in springs, we offer technical insight and expertise that no other organisation can offer, putting us right at the heart of the global spring making industry.

Meet Our Team

Chris Hopkins

Chris Hopkins

Commercial Director

chris@ist.org.uk

Dr Richard Dignall

Dr Richard Dignall

Technical Director

richard@ist.org.uk

Dr Conor McCaughey

Dr Conor McCaughey

Lead Metallurgist / R&D Manager

conor@ist.org.uk

Joe Pritchard

Joe Pritchard

Software Engineer

joe@ist.org.uk

Andy Ruddiforth

Shot Peening Manager

andy@ist.org.uk

Matt Bridson

Matt Bridson

Metallurgical Analyst

matt@ist.org.uk

Nicholas Bridson

Nicholas Bridson

Testing Technician

n.bridson@ist.org.uk

Our History

1942
The Coil Spring Federation

The Coil Spring Federation (C.S.F) was established in 1942 for the purpose of meeting the significant demands for numerous types of springs vital to the production of reliable equipment to aid the war-time efforts.

1945
Coil Spring Federation Research Organisation

In October 1945 it became necessary to consider how the advantages which had been accrued could be extended to benefit the whole industry.  As a result, the Coil Spring Federation Research Organisation (C.S.F.R.O.) came into operation.

1961
Spring Manufacturers’ Research Association

In 1961, the C.S.F.R.O. applied for recognition as a Research Association which was granted, and the name was changed to the Spring Manufacturers’ Research Association (SMRA)

1966
Spring Research Association

In 1966 the Association was renamed to Spring Research Association (SRA) to reflect that its objective was to offer services to the whole of the spring industry.  At that time, the Spring Manufacturers’ Association (SMA) was responsible for the commercial interests of the industry.

1974
Spring Research and Manufacturers’ Association

In 1974, it became apparent that the functions of the SRA and the SMA were becoming interdependent, so it was decided to unify both companies under the new name of Spring Research and Manufacturers’ Association (SRAMA).

1997
UKSMA & IST

In 1997, following cuts in Government funding, we decided to market the technical services worldwide, and the technical division was relaunched as the Institute of Spring Technology (IST), with the Trade Association function for the British Spring Industry falling under the auspices of the UK Spring Manufacturers’ Association (UKSMA).

2021
Today at IST
Today at IST

We support businesses right across the spring supply chain, from help with spring design and consultancy to shot peening, testing, failure analysis and professional training.

We actively develop the world-leading spring design and validation software Spring Calculator Professional (SCP). SCP is used widely by manufacturers, design engineers and end-users within the spring industry.

Our custom-built lab is dedicated to static and dynamic spring testing, and we are experts in investigating and diagnosing spring failures.

Additionally, we support over 200 companies worldwide through our Membership program, giving unprecedented access to our independent technical services.

Need Some Help With a Spring Problem?

Contact us today