Lincotek and MMB Volum-e join forces to enhance end-to-end AM in aerospace

Global contract manufacturer Lincotek and MMB VOLUM-e have formalized their relationship. In an agreement between the two companies, Lincotek will acquire a strategic stake in the French metal and additive manufacturing specialist. The deal solidifies the growth plan of the Group’s Surface Solution Division to further penetrate the aerospace market, in terms of both military and commercial applications. As a result, the company will find itself well placed to boost the integration of the use of AM for this market.

Established in Italy in 1973 and recognized as one of the largest players in the processing of blades and vanes for industrial gas turbines, today Lincotek Surface Solutions is a well-established player in the aerospace market too, working with several of the key OEMs. ACC, Lincotek’s joint venture with GE Aviation and its aerospace dedicated facility in Tarbes, France – together with the acquisition of Hitemco early this year – are indicators of its competence in the field. Now, the acquisition of the strategic stake of MMB VOLUM-e is an additional step forward in this direction, further enhancing its AM footprint. With additive operations in place since 2007, and more than 100.000 implantable parts p.a., Lincotek today can rely on a dedicated Additive Division enabling true serial additive production through its Additive Plus offer, which combines additive base capabilities with post-processing.

Totally embracing the move towards Industry 4.0. with the aim of sustainable production in mind, MMB VOLUM-e is specialized in polymer and metal additive manufacturing. The successful, family-owned business, based in Normandy, France, benefits from 50 years of experience in the design of exceptional parts in a wide range of markets, including aerospace; defense and space; medical and pharma; energy and other industrial equipment. The company has a long track record in industrial processes, providing a 3D printing service in synergy with CNC machining and vacuum casting.

The new agreement will further strengthen the position of both businesses and will allow for increased investment to meet ever-more demanding customer requirements for integrated solutions in the aerospace market. The combined companies – with 40 state-of-the-art metal additive printers installed – are in a unique position to offer the most complete service for additive serial production, assisting customers from 3D printing to finished part.

For 30 years now, both companies have been key providers of sophisticated additive-produced components – specifically in relation to polymers and the metal alloys relevant to the industrial market. Now, through the wider, state-of-the-art technologies available, they will respond jointly to the growing demand for finished parts with serial industry configuration for mass production. This will enable serial additive production by combining conventional and additive manufacturing under one roof.

Andrea Colombo, CEO of Lincotek, commented: “We’re delighted we’ve been able to build such a close partnership with MMB VOLUM-e. Together, we are creating one of the biggest service platforms in the industry allowing customers to finally move their supply chain to additive produced parts. Combining the technological expertise of MMB Volum-e with our ability to invest, and our profound experience in the additive printing space as much as in the post processing area, we are now set to make even greater strides in the years ahead.”

The sentiment was echoed by France Desjonquères, CEO of MMB VOLUM-e, who commented: “Lincotek is a natural partner for MMB VOLUM-e and we very much welcome the business taking a minority stake. Together, we are stronger and can provide a more seamless service across the complete value chain. We have a proud record in both additive and traditional industrial processes and are looking forward to building on our achievements.”