Leipold Group manufactures turned parts for the aviation industry

The Leipold Group has started producing turned parts for the aviation industry which has allowed the Wolfach based manufacturer to expand its portfolio into a new sector. Behind this decision lies a new partnership with the aviation industry supplier GMT. Although Leipold is a newcomer to this highly specific market, the manufacturer's size means that it can offer flexible production structures in series production, along with high levels of process reliability. The parts supplied are currently being used in various models, for instance the Airbus A350.

"With our expertise in machining technology, based on decades of experience, extremely highly trained staff, state-of-the-art machinery and sophisticated custom tools, we believe that we are up to the challenges of this market", stresses Pascal Schiefer, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Leipold Group.

The new portfolio includes connecting elements – in particular, fork joints, rings and bushings made from a range of different metals such as high-alloy steels, titanium and other special alloys including that of aluminium. These depend on exactly which part of the aircraft they will be used in.

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The precision parts are installed in what are known as tie-rods  used as connecting elements at interfaces in an aircraft. Leipold is listed as a link in the supply chain for the well-known aircraft manufacturers Airbus, Boeing and Bombardier. Initially, the series production parts were used in the Airbus A380, whereas today, most of the turned parts are fitted in the A350.

GMT was seeking a reliable partner for the production of critical turned parts in high volumes and finally turned to Leipold for collaboration.

"Although Leipold is a complete newcomer to the sector, the decision in favour of this partnership turned out to be extremely far-sighted", says Siegfried Oser, Head of Purchasing in the field of aviation for GMT.

Right from the development stage of new components, Leipold advises on feasibility, economic efficiency and possible savings potential. The production technology also won GMT over. "As a result of the partnership, we are already far more cost-efficient than previously", says Siegfried Oser.

All indications are that this will be a long-term partnership. Both companies can see a great deal of potential in it: "We both have the same philosophy. The aviation segment is already a growth area for us, just as it is for GMT", says Pascal Schiefer.