AFD Systems forms strategic partnership ORCA Oceanic Systems

Blackpool based advanced engineering and manufacturing specialist, AFD Systems, has entered into a strategic partnership to design and develop advanced cabin fit-outs with specialist global diving equipment supplier, ORCA.

The partnership is aimed at disrupting the cabin-fit out market by combining the advanced engineering skillsets from AFD Systems with the marine manufacturing capabilities from ORCA.

AFD Systems has widespread experience in VIP cabin interiors for aerospace clients alongside the ability to deliver advanced polymer additively manufactured parts into the programme.

Over the coming months, specialists from AFD Systems and ORCA will carry out a rigorous material-processing programme to test the durability of polymer components in subsea environments and release product examples and case studies demonstrating the benefits of additive manufacturing for diving systems.

Jerrod Hartley, chief executive of AFD Systems, said: “This collaboration with ORCA will push the boundaries of cabin fit-outs for sub-sea environments whilst also pushing the adoption of polymer additive manufacturing technology.

"We’ve already started working together on material processing tests to validate polymer performance for these environments.

“Through investment in our people, training and apprenticeships we are creating skills to meet the future needs of our customers.

"We are committed to helping world-leading organisations solve complex engineering challenges and this partnership with ORCA is a great example of this capability. “

Craig Livesey, ORCA’s technical director, said: “This partnership marks a major step forward for both ORCA and the wider diving community.

"Together, ORCA and AFD will deliver faster prototyping, improved supply chain resilience and new design opportunities not achievable through traditional manufacturing methods. 

“The collaboration demonstrates a commitment to improving safety, reliability and technical capability across subsea operations.”

From its headquarters in Aberdeen, ORCA delivers world-class tailored safety services for the diving and subsea industry through its mechanical and electrical specialists in recertification, design, installation and refurbishment.

The venture by AFD Systems follows the recent name change to reflect the company’s evolution from a niche airframe design consultancy into a market-leading advanced engineering and manufacturing business, serving the worldwide aerospace and defence sectors, and other emerging industries.

Alongside the name change, AFD Systems has refreshed its brand identity and launched a new website as it widens its reach and capability across global complex sectors including space, nuclear, rail, maritime, medical and motorsport.

With a highly specialised, qualified and experienced team, AFD Systems provides expertise across the fields of systems integration, airframe engineering, cabin interior engineering, additive manufacturing, innovative tooling solutions, high intensity test rigs, reverse engineering and metrology.

The company is also committed to research into the safe and effective application of AI, alongside innovation in additive manufacturing technologies.

Since launching in 2009, AFD Systems has successfully completed more than 600 projects across a plethora of air, land and sea platforms. The company employs more than 30 specialists within modern headquarters at Blackpool Airport’s Enterprise Zone, with a customer base that includes BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin, Airbus and Boeing.