A world-class materials testing lab based in China will open as a joint venture between a leading advanced composites manufacturer headquartered in Connecticut and a Chinese technology-led aircraft and aerospace engine parts and components integrated manufacturer and service provider.
The Shanghai Future Aerospace Hexcel Commercial Composite Testing enterprise was formed by Hexcel Corporation and Future Aerospace to offer testing services to commercial aerospace industries in China and Asia Pacific.
This new facility, located in Lingang, an area of Shanghai, will provide China with an aerospace standard material test laboratory to ease material qualification and support certification for new programs. Expected activities at the site include the testing of composite laminate specimens, material qualifications, and support for customers’ supply chains in China. Future Aerospace brings its expertise in heat treating, metallic manufacturing, composites forming, and surface treatment. Hexcel develops lightweight, high-performance structural materials for use in commercial aerospace, space and defense, and industrial applications.
“I am delighted that we are joining with Future Aerospace to establish this world-class composite materials testing facility in China. This investment is in response to local customer demand and demonstrates our commitment to support the commercial aerospace industry’s growing use of composite materials in China,” said Thierry Merlot, Hexcel president, Aerospace – Europe, Middle East and Asia.
“We are pleased to partner with Hexcel. The collaboration enables Future Aerospace and Hexcel to play a key role in supporting the development and implementation of composite material applications in commercial aerospace industries in China for both Chinese and global aerospace customers,” said Han Hua, chairman, Future Aerospace.
Operations at the new site are expected to begin in September 2018 and will include the manufacture of composite coupons for mechanical testing, building on the work that Hexcel already carries out for the aerospace industry at facilities in Europe and the U.S. with expertise in structural composite testing and qualifications.
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