Filton Systems Engineering is acquired by Element Materials Technology

Filton Systems Engineering (FSE, Bristol, U.K.) has recently been acquired by testing, inspection and certification (TIC) services provider Element Materials Technology (London, U.K.). This step advances Element’s digital engineering capabilities in aerospace; FSE is a distinguished aerospace engineering and testing services firm with notable hydrogen capability. Some of its work can be seen through the development and testing of all types of tanks, including Type III and IV, as noted through its partnership with the National Composites Center (NCC) and testing of Fabrum’s composite tanks, as reported by CW.

The acquisition of FSE specifically adds to Element’s Digital Engineering Business Unit. Formed in 2022, Element Digital Engineering is an engineering and technology service provider supporting customers globally, across a diverse range of markets through the complete engineering lifecycle. FSE’s expertise in systems engineering, safety and reliability, design along with simulation and modeling complement and strengthen Element’s offering across the complete product development cycle.

FSE specializes in designing fuel, air, hydraulic, inerting and engine systems. The business delivers solutions from concept to manufacture and provides a single source for system mechanical design, simulation, analysis, prototyping, technical writing and testing. The company, with its team of 50 experts, has extensive expertise including gaseous and liquid hydrogen. Notably, FSE boasts a dedicated facility in Kemble, U.K., featuring an in-house-designed and constructed hydrogen liquefaction plant.

In addition to aerospace, the addition of FSE to Element will expand the company’s presence in the U.K. defense sector, where FSE has several prime contractors established. The acquisition marks Element’s 50^th acquisition in its short history since 2011. It has grown from 860 people to 9,000 people today working across 270 locations in 30 countries.

“The acquisition of FSE underscores our commitment to global innovation and expanding our digital capabilities,” Matt Hopkinson, EVP of EMEAA at Element, says. “It broadens the scope and scale of our digital engineering services, allowing our customers to take advantage of our engineering services alongside our traditional expertise in testing.”

“We are excited about the opportunities Element will bring to FSE,” Ben Richardson, cofounder of FSE, adds. “John (cofounder of FSE) and I are proud of what we and the team have achieved in the past 11 years and the decision to change a successful structure was not taken lightly. However, we have worked side by side with Element on multiple qualification programs and recognize the capability and professionalism with which they operate. Equally as important is their approach and attitude to their staff, customers and new engineering challenges. We have huge confidence in the capability of our engineers as we take this next step and transition from a small business to a contender in the global marketplace.“