Hutchinson expands aerospace parts facility in Morocco

Casablanca, Morocco – Hutchinson has announced a €12-million expansion of its production of composite aerospace parts and equipment at its site in Casablanca.

The 18,700m2 extension will increase the production of insulation blankets and composite equipment for the Boeing B787/B777 and Airbus A330/A220 programmes.

In a statement 15 March, Hutchinson said the site has been qualified to “the latest standards of the largest aeronautical contractors.”

The investment included the installation of: three autoclaves; a cleanroom; large numerical controllers; an automated storage tower; and a 3D scanner to digitally model components.

The project – 30% of which is financed by the Moroccan government – will create 400 additional jobs, including 50 positions for young engineers.

Hutchinson said it had employed Industry 4.0 technologies at the site, including more than 150 touch screens to digitalise processes and monitor production performance.

The facility also features “optimisation tools” to reduce material waste rates by 10% and recycle 80% of the remaining waste.

"The expansion of our site in Casablanca reaffirms our desire to establish a long-term presence in Morocco,” said Helene Moreau-Leroy, chairman and CEO of Hutchinson.

“This 4.0 site is strategic for our aerospace activities, and will allow us to cater more closely to our customers' needs and expectations,” added Moreau-Leroy.