Daher Expands Thermoplastic Composite Expertise by Acquiring KVE Composites Group

Daher (Paris, France) on June 3 announced that it has acquired KVE Composites Group (The Hague, Netherlands) with the goal of extending its thermoplastic composites capabilities for structural aircraft components. The acquisition is part of Daher’s “Succeed Together” strategic plan for 2018-2022.

Daher currently is the leading European supplier of thermoplastic components, with 160,000 components total, and with the new acquisition the company intends to draw on KVE Composites Group’s experience and expertise in the induction welding of thermoplastic composite components. This process reportedly will enable a 75% reduction in the number or rivets used to assemble aircraft fuselage structures, leading to financial savings and a weight reduction of 15%. 

A thermoplastic composite component produced by KVC Composite Group. Source | Daher

As part of this acquisition, Daher intends to position itself as a leader of thermoplastic composites technology for areostructures. According to the company, these materials and technologies will become increasingly important in aerospace for benefits such as weight reduction, lower consumption, productivity and aircraft competitiveness.

Additional branches of Daher’s strategic plan include the launch of its TBM 940 single-engine turboprop airplane, which features an automated throttle and automatic deicing system; plans to expand business to North America; and partnerships with blockchain and artificial intelligence startups.

“Our strategic plan for 2018-2022 continues to be implemented across the piece, and the Group is on track to capture the value generated by its priority initiatives,” says Kayat. “In combination with our capital investment program and long-term vision, the commitment, innovative expertise and energy of our teams give me real confidence in the continued growth of Daher.”

Read more about current and future uses of thermoplastic composites for next-generation commercial aircraft: “Thermoplastic composites: Poised to step forward.”