GKN Buys Stellex to Position Itself in Titanium

Landing in titanium…(click to view previous) GKN plc of the UK has agreed to acquire the US firm Stellex Aerostructures from the Carlyle Group. Stellex is a leading provider of highly engineered subsystems and components for the aerospace and defense industries. They operate three divisions. Stellex Monitor Aerospace, Inc. and Stellex Precision Machining, Inc. specialize in large complex machined parts and structural sub-assemblies for the aerospace industry. Stellex Bandy Machining, Inc. provides precision aircraft hinges and other structural components for the aerospace and space industries. As GKN’s release notes: “The combination of GKN’s existing advanced composite structures and metals business with the operations of Stellex will create a leading manufacturer of titanium aircraft and engine structures.” So, why this particular combination? F135 engine assembly(click to view full) “GKN is… successfully taking advantage of the growth in composite content in both civil and military aircraft. There is also a growth trend in the use of titanium… Titanium structures will account for approximately 20% of the weight of the new F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and 15% of the Boeing 787 airliner – more than twice the levels of the aircraft they replace which will drive a doubling in titanium usage within the […]