GKN Aerospace has broken ground on a $16 million expansion of its engine component manufacturing facility in North Charlestown, New Hampshire, as the company prepares to increase production capacity and broaden its manufacturing activities.
The expansion will add approximately 57,000 square feet to the existing facility, bringing the site's total footprint to nearly 97,000 square feet. The expanded site is expected to support future business growth, workforce expansion and additional manufacturing operations.
From an NDT perspective, the expansion will introduce non-destructive testing (NDT) alongside turning operations and surface finishing. GKN Aerospace said these activities are expected to improve manufacturing efficiency and reduce lead times.
NDT Added to Expanded Manufacturing Operations
GKN Aerospace produces aerospace components, including engine structures and landing gear. The expanded North Charlestown facility will provide space for a broader range of manufacturing activities, including the newly added NDT operations.
The inclusion of NDT within the expanded manufacturing footprint is part of the company's plans to strengthen production capabilities as demand for engine components increases.
GKN Aerospace Highlights U.S. Capacity Expansion
“Today marks an important milestone for our North Charlestown site and for GKN Aerospace's U.S. operations,” said Joakim Andersson, president, engines, at GKN Aerospace. “This investment will help us grow our capacity in the U.S. as demand from our engines customers continues to rise. It is an important step as we strengthen our ability to support customers and grow our business for the long term.”
The project is also expected to contribute to workforce development and the expansion of aerospace manufacturing activity in New Hampshire.
“New Hampshire is proud to be a leader in the aerospace and defense industry, and GKN Aerospace’s expansion here is a testament to what is possible when industry investment and workforce development come together,” said Kelly Ayotte, governor of New Hampshire. “We will continue to expand pathways to careers in aerospace and other high-demand fields, ensure our workforce has the skills and training necessary to grow this important industry, and keep New Hampshire a hub for innovation.”
