FIT Additive Manufacturing Group and the Russian Research and Engineering Company NIK Ltd. have announced the creation of a new joint venture company called “FITNIK” to open up the Russian additive manufacturing market.
The German-Russian cooperation will commence from January 2018. Located in Zhukovsky, the new company will combine the expertise of both parent companies to leverage consulting proficiencies to enhance specific design for aviation parts and components, and to manufacture cutting-edge parts with additive manufacturing processes in Russia. Production at the Russian site is expected to be fully operational within two years.
In 2017, FIT AG has made significant progress in its bid to expand across North America and Europe. The company's United States operation was strengthened by the appointments of Kenneth D. Gray and Andrew Jeffrey to senior positions, and the following month saw the launch of a new German HQ and additive manufacturing base. Now, FIT AG, partnering with NIK, joins the likes of SLM Solutions in utilising the Russian AM market.
“Through FITNIK, we gain incredible synergy," Carl Fruth, founder and CEO of the FIT Group said. "Not only are we able to penetrate the Russian market very quickly via access to many target markets, this joint venture also gives us the opportunity to offer our international customers qualified additive engineering at very competitive prices. We are happy to team up with NIK."
Alexander Korneev, CEO at NIK Ltd., added: “By creating this joint venture, we are ensuring a robust manufacturing process, incorporating the entire chain of product creation with the help of additive technologies — from designing, according to the customer’s specifications, to production implementation, certification, and post-production support. FITNIK combines the expertise of two leading companies regarding additive design and manufacturing, thereby allowing for the realisation of truly comprehensive services.”
Zhukovsky, 30 km south of Moscow, is known as an important Russian aircraft centre for scientific research and development. This carefully chosen location is an environment for creative innovation and allows access to excellent engineering expertise and talent.
FIT AG is exhibiting at formnext powered by TCT in Hall 3.1, Stand F88.