Alcoa and VSMPO-AVISMA launch aerospace joint venture

AlTi Forge is set to conquer the global market of raw materials for the aerospace industry (Photo by VSMPO Avisma)

Alcoa Samara (Arconic SMZ), Russia’s largest producer of fabricated aluminum and VSMPO-AVISMA Corporation, the world’s largest manufacturer of titanium ingots and forged products, have announced the operational launch of a joint venture called AlTi Forge after receiving all necessary regulatory approvals from the Russian government.

Initial cooperation agreement for a new JV between Alcoa and VSMPO-AVISMA was signed in October 2013. Financial terms of the venture were not disclosed.

AlTi Forge will serve both major international and Russian aircraft manufacturers by producing large-type forged products of advanced titanium and aluminum alloys for aircraft, such as landing gear beams and wing pylons.

“Alcoa’s expertise in advanced aluminum and titanium alloys for the aerospace industry, combined with VSMPO-AVISMA’s global leadership in titanium production, form a strong partnership. Through this joint venture, we are growing Alcoa’s range of multi-material offerings to enhance the competitiveness of our aerospace business and position it for continued profitable growth,” says Maxim Smirnov, president of Alcoa Russia.

VSMPO-AVISMA Corporation is the world’s largest titanium producer, which operates the complete processing cycle, from raw materials to finished machined parts. The corporation markets its products in 50 countries and is integrated into the global aerospace industry. It is a strategic supplier for many companies, including Boeing, Airbus, Embraer, Rolls-Royce, Bombardier Aerospace, Safran and Pratt & Whitney. The Corporation employs 20,000 people globally. VSMPO-AVISMA management holds the majority interest, and Rostec owns a golden share of 25% + 1 share.

Alcoa appeared in Russia in 1993. Since 2005, the company has operated the Samara Metallurgical Plant (currently – Arconic SMZ), one of Russia’s largest producers of fabricated aluminum. The facility employs approximately 3,000 people. It manufactures a wide variety of flat-rolled, extruded and forged products serving customers in many markets, including aerospace.