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GKN Aerospace: Setup up of a modern testing laboratory featuring a ZwickRoell AllroundLine machine

Case Study

  • Customer: GKN Aerospace
  • Location: United Kingdom
  • Industry: Aerospace
  • Topic: GKN Aerospace: Setup of a modern testing laboratory with innovative and cost-effective solutions from ZwickRoell and an AllroundLine 150 kN testing machine

September 2026

The UK-based company GKN Aerospace set up a modern testing laboratory with innovative and cost-effective solutions from ZwickRoell and an AllroundLine 150 kN

Tasks Areas of competence Solution Result Products

GKN Aerospace: Innovative market leader in aerospace

GKN Aerospace is a leading global supplier of aerospace components and systems. With an extensive track record in the industry, the company offers innovative solutions for airplane manufacturers and operators. GKN Aerospace is known for its expertise in the development and manufacture of advanced composite materials and metal structures which are used in a variety of aircraft types.

ZwickRoell top competences

 

  • Compact machine requiring less space in the new laboratory
  • Cost-effective solution
  • Low noise level
  • Long-term viability for test requirements
  • Machine is able to perform a higher specification of tests

The task

Innovative testing laboratory with budget-friendly, hydraulic-free technology

GKN Aerospace was tasked with establishing a new, state-of-the-art testing laboratory that could be presented to existing as well as potential customers. However, the relocation of the existing hydraulic testing machine posed a challenge. The company aimed to transition away from hydraulics and invest in a new, visually appealing machine that is budget-friendly.

The ZwickRoell solution

ZwickRoell delivers space-saving and cost-effective 150 kN testing machine

ZwickRoell supplied an AllroundLine 150 kN floor-standing testing machine with a temperature chamber and an extensometer. The solution saved space and was cost-effective as it eliminated the problems typically presented by hydraulics. The new machine enhanced GKN Aerospace's image, showcasing their testing capabilities to customers in the new laboratory. In addition, the machine enabled more precise and reliable test results, which significantly improved quality assurance. Easy operation and maintenance also contributed to increased efficiency. Overall, the new testing machine elevated GKN Aerospace’s innovation and competitive strength.

Christ Cotton, GKN Aerospace

“We have a long-standing partnership with ZwickRoell. Thanks to the 150 kN AllroundLine testing machine, we are able to perform higher specification tests that meet all the required standards.”

Christ Cotton, Materials Engineer, GKN Aerospace

The result

Testing machine increases efficiency and meets the highest standards at GKN Aerospace

The implementation of the new 150 kN AllroundLine testing machine from ZwickRoell at GKN Aerospace led to remarkable improvements. The machine enabled GKN Aerospace to perform tests with higher specifications and meet all the required standards. This strengthened the company’s position as a reliable partner in the aerospace industry. The new laboratory was successfully presented to existing and potential customers, further reinforcing confidence in GKN Aerospace’s testing capabilities.

Customer benefits:

  • More compact machine: The new testing machine takes up less space, enabling more efficient use of the space.
  • Cost-effective solution: The investment in the new machine was economical and reduced operating costs.
  • Noise level reduction: The new technology operates more quietly, creating a more pleasant and comfortable work environment.
  • Long-term viability: The machine is designed to meet future test requirements, ensuring long-term planning stability.
  • Higher specification: The ability to perform tests with higher specifications expands GKN Aerospace’s range of services and flexibility.
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