UK-based manufacturer Doncasters plans to have an aerospace manufacturing facility up and running in a low-cost economy overseas by 2010.
Alan Clark, sales and marketing director for the company’s aerospace division, says the company is conducting feasibility studies in a number of countries. Doncasters intends to “have an organised structure and implement a low-cost plan”, with a “bolt-on low-cost facility producing parts by the end of the decade”, says Clark. The company traditionally opts for 100% ownership of any additions to its business, Clark says, but does not rule out a joint venture.
The company is to manufacture ring-rolled forgings for the Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 turbofan’s turbine section. The engine will power the Boeing 787. Doncasters has also signed a £1 million ($1.8 million) deal with Turkey’s Tusas Engine Industries to supply forged rolled rings for the Europrop TP400 engine for the Airbus Military A400M.
Source: Flight International
