HS Metalworks OPEX Spring Wire Alliance Expands Capacity
HS Metalworks—the Metalworks business of HS Manufacturing, LLC and a wholly owned subsidiary of Hickory Springs Manufacturing Company (HSM)—has formed a strategic alliance with OPEX Steel Processing LLC. Through this partnership, OPEX will manufacture induction-tempered spring wire for HS Metalworks at its Bedford Heights, Ohio, facility.
This alliance significantly expands HS Metalworks’ production capacity and strengthens its ability to serve spring-wire customers across the Midwest. President Tim Becker explained that the collaboration delivers both additional capacity and a key geographic advantage, supporting growing demand from customers that rely on high-performance spring wire.
Strengthening North American Spring Wire Supply
Becker noted that this alliance firmly positions HS Metalworks as one of the largest producers of induction-tempered spring wire in North America. The timing plays a crucial role, as demand for home furnishings, housing upgrade products, and automotive components continues to rise following the Covid-19 pandemic.
The partnership also completes a “triangle” of spring wire manufacturing locations for HS Metalworks. The company now produces induction-tempered spring wire at facilities in Conover, North Carolina, Phoenix, Arizona, and Bedford Heights, Ohio. Production and shipments from the Bedford Heights plant began in late February, giving customers improved lead times and more flexible sourcing options.
Exclusive Partnership and Key Applications
Under the agreement, HS Metalworks will serve as OPEX’s sole and exclusive customer for induction-tempered spring wire. Manufacturers use this wire to produce overhead springs for garage doors and a wide variety of products in the furniture, automotive, agricultural, and construction markets that require springs with a large load-bearing capacity.
OPEX operates using select wire-making assets formerly owned by American Spring Wire Corp. This infrastructure, combined with OPEX’s experienced team, supports high-quality spring wire production tailored to HS Metalworks’ specifications.
Shared Values and Growth Outlook
Becker emphasized that the alliance aligns closely with both companies’ core values, including quality, service, and long-term customer partnerships. He praised the OPEX team—from the executive level to the production floor—as one of the most respected wire manufacturing groups in the industry and highlighted the shared commitment to manufacturing excellence and customer service.
OPEX CEO Tim Selhorst expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to put the company’s wire-making assets and skilled workforce back into full operation. He noted that demand for induction-tempered spring wire has grown dramatically, and that joining forces with HS Metalworks presents a strong growth opportunity for both organizations.
