How Element Helps GKN Develop Advanced Composite Sections to Just-In-Time Process Requirements

This case study details Element's five-year partnership with GKN Aerospace to provide advanced composite testing for the Airbus A350 XWB. Element conducts production release testing on six spar sections, ensuring on-time delivery and supporting GKN's just-in-time processes to meet stringent quality standards and prevent costly production delays.

The company

Element has long supported GKN, a leading supplier in the global aerospace supply chain, providing technically demanding solutions in support of the development and application of composite materials.

The challenge

Element has worked closely with GKN Aerospace over a long period to perfect the aft composite spar and fixed trailing edge material properties of the new Airbus A350 XWB commercial airliner. GKN then approached Element with a requirement for production release testing of these advanced composite sections.

The solution

The two companies signed a five-year long term agreement that will see Element, through a range of technically demanding composite testing methods, provide the production release testing for each of the aircraft’s six spar sections.

The result

Element is supporting GKN in assuring OTD of completed wings to the Airbus facility in Toulouse as A350 development accelerates towards production. Working to just-in-time (JIT) processes, it is critical that GKN can rely on a partner that meets both quality standards and demanding turnaround times, helping to avoid costly production delays.