Gardner Aerospace, a global manufacturer of aerospace components, has acquired FDM Digital Solutions, a UK-based 3D printing company. As part of the acquisition, FDM Digital Solutions will become integrated within the new Gardner Technology Center.

Founded in 2012 in Burnley, England, FDM Digital Solutions grew to be one of the biggest additive companies in the UK, especially in the polymer segment. Up until the acquisition, the company was operating a fleet of seven Stratasys printers, an HP Multi Jet Fusion system and two Roboze machines—reportedly the largest commercially available capacity in the UK.

Over the years, the company has worked with customers in various industries, from automotive, to healthcare, to motorsport and aerospace. Now, as part of Gardner, the company’s additive capabilities will become part of the newly established Gardner Technology Centre, which will focus on advanced technology, innovative solutions and research and development.

“Gardner Aerospace is breaking new ground in terms of technology,” said Dominic Cartwright, Chief Executive Officer at Gardner Aerospace. “The acquisition of FDM and the creation of our new Technology Centre business unit provides us with the perfect opportunity to expand our technical knowledge, R&D capability and product offering, and aligns us with our customers’ growing expectations on innovative solutions, continuous improvement and cost competitiveness. 

“The role of 3D printing within manufacturing is constantly expanding and this newly acquired additive layer manufacturing capability complements Gardner’s long-standing capabilities as a producer of metallic detailed parts and sub-assemblies.” 

Gardner Aerospace manufacturers parts for key aerospace OEMs and suppliers including Airbus, Bombardier, Rolls-Royce, GKN, Safran, Gulfstream, Collins Aerospace and Embraer.