Case Study: GKN Aerospace achieves significant cost and production-time reductions with Proto3000

GKN Aerospace Cuts Costs and Production Times with Additive Manufacturing

GKN Aerospace, a tier-one supplier to the world’s engine and airframe manufacturers, needed to cut costly production downtime and accelerate delivery of fully functional, ultra-realistic prototypes and line tooling at its Filton site. To meet these goals, GKN engaged Proto3000 for additive manufacturing support, using 3D printing (including the Fortus 900mc) to produce on-demand tools and prototype parts.

Proto3000 delivered 3D-printed tooling and rapid prototypes that let GKN produce protective masks and complex fixtures in hours rather than weeks, clearing backlogs and minimizing line stoppages. The Proto3000-enabled solution produced measurable gains—around a 40% reduction in concessions, some tasks reduced from two operators to one, faster prototype launches (a windscreen housing produced in hours and judged almost indistinguishable from the real part), and significant time and cost savings.

GKN Aerospace

Rachel Trimble

Additive Manufacturing Polymer Specialist