EDITORIAL ROUNDUP

EOS joins MTC

Additive manufacturing (AM) specialist EOS has joined The MTC (Manufacturing Technology Centre) as a tier 3 member, marking a significant step in strengthening the collaboration between the two companies. EOS’ new membership will also extend the MTC’s range of AM options for defence, power and energy customers with the addition of an EOS M 290 equipped with EOSTATE Exposure OT in-process melt pool monitoring. This acquisition will enable the research technology organisation to develop more advanced materials for use in AM and expand its range of applications.

For further information www.the-mtc.org

Rcapital buys FGP Group

Private investor Rcapital has completed the acquisition of aerospace and defence engineering business, FGP Group. The deal will protect over 200 jobs in Dorset. FGP Group comprises Weymouth-based FGP Systems Ltd, a precision engineering business which provides tight-tolerance machining, turning and fabrication services to blue-chip aerospace and defence customers, and FGP Lufton Ltd, which is based in Yeovil and manufactures a portfolio of parts for the aerospace sector. The group also includes a successful surface treatment and coating business, Ramp Surface Coatings.

For further information www.rcapital.co.uk

SafeChem Europe acquired by Itelyum

Italian group Itelyum, a champion for the circular economy through the management and recycling of industrial waste, has acquired SafeChem Europe GmbH, a chemical service company and solvent risk management expert in the metal cleaning sector. SafeChem is an expert in enabling the safe and sustainable use of solvents. The company develops innovative business models, products and services to optimise the balance between ecology, economy and social responsibility. The acquisition has received all necessary approvals. Financial details remain confidential.

For further information www.safechem.com

AWI achieves record-breaking year

Export successes, security of supply and making every member of the business a shareholder were just some of the highlights of a record-breaking year for Alloy Wire International (AWI). This manufacturer of round, flat and profile wire has delivered £17.9m of sales since the MBO 12 months ago, a near £5m rise on the same period in 2022 and £3m above anticipated revenues. The senior management team puts the expansion down to a resurgence in the oil and gas industry and aerospace volumes returning post-pandemic, plus ongoing growth in automotive and new opportunities in R&D and space exploration.

For further information www.alloywire.com

UK degree in space systems engineering

BAE Systems and the University of Portsmouth have launched the UK’s first-ever degree apprenticeship in Space Systems Engineering. Applications are now open for the initial intake of space degree apprentices. The new recruits will be part of exciting projects such as Azalea, which is due to launch its first multi-sensor low Earth orbit satellite cluster in 2025 to deliver intelligence in real-time to military customers.

Apprentices will learn on-the-job critical skills at BAE Systems’ sites in Alton and Guildford, including system and mission analysis, software development and electronics from some of the industry’s most talented people. At the University of Portsmouth, apprentices will undertake a BEng in Space Systems Engineering. This four and half year course will provide them with the latest skills in CAD, telecommunication systems, space science, space mission design, and materials and manufacture.

For further information www.bit.ly/3uzl6xq