Easton Expands into Aerospace, Enhances Carbon Fiber Injection Molding Capabilities

Original Article: https://www.chinatimes.com/newspapers/20170817000337-260210?chdtv
August 17, 2017 | Commercial Times | Reporter: Lin Yi-Jen

Mr. Coleman Cheng, Chairman of Easton Precision Industries and Vice Chairman of the Taiwan Mold & Die Industry Association, aims to enhance the company’s equipment and technological capabilities by entering the aerospace sector.
 

Easton Precision Industries Corp., with 30 years of expertise in mold design and manufacturing, has specialized in plastic injection molding for home appliances and automotive components. In 2010, the company expanded into the aerospace industry, starting with OEM production of business class aircraft seat components and interior plastic parts. From August 17 to 19, Easton will showcase its aerospace R&D results at the Taipei Aerospace & Defense Technology Exhibition, within the Aerospace Industry Pavilion.

Chairman Coleman Cheng noted that Easton has world-class expertise in plastic mold technology. Its automotive molds are mainly exported to Europe and the U.S. In 1995, Easton became the first Taiwanese supplier of vacuum cleaner molds for the UK's Dyson DCO1, marking its entry into the 3C electronics sector. For home appliances, major clients include Sweden’s Electrolux and Turkey's ARCELIK Group.

Cheng shared that Easton entered China in 2001, initially setting up in Suzhou and later establishing a plant in Dongguan in 2005 to focus on automotive molds. Collaborations with UK-based Land Rover and Nissan led to partnerships with tier-one suppliers such as Johnson Controls. These ties opened doors to the world’s largest aerospace seat manufacturer, who approached Easton in 2010 to develop molds for business class seats. After five years of development, production, testing, and process improvement, the client expressed high satisfaction. Easton now manufactures new-generation business class seat parts such as windows, TVs, and storage compartments.

Due to the stringent material requirements in aerospace—non-smoke, non-toxic, and flame retardant—Easton adheres to strict raw material controls and utilizes highly precise injection processes. With excellent team capabilities and high yield rates, Easton successfully entered carbon fiber composite injection molding, which can replace certain aluminum aerospace parts. Switching to carbon fiber reduces component weight by 45%–55% while retaining durability and strength, highlighting its development potential.

Easton also prioritizes strategic growth. The company has introduced high-grade medical 3D printing equipment and is actively collaborating with two local teaching hospitals to expand into the medical field. Starting from co-developing new products with clients, mold manufacturing, and low-volume production, Easton aims to scale toward full injection mass production. The next step involves investing in high-end aerospace-grade 3D printing technologies and equipment. Through upgraded machinery and advanced processes, Easton plans to deepen collaboration with domestic and international aerospace firms, further enhancing its R&D and manufacturing strengths to boost customer competitiveness.

With over 30 years of experience in plastic injection molding and mold design, Easton has evolved from a traditional mold manufacturer to a standout player in the aerospace industry. Currently, its manufacturing is based in China, while mold design and development are handled at its Taiwan headquarters. Given the technology-driven nature of mold development, the company plans significant investment in both hardware and software to bolster global competitiveness. Committed to rigorous quality standards from design to production, Easton delivers top results under the most competitive terms. Chairman Cheng is confident that Easton will secure a firm position in the high-end aerospace and defense sectors and advance toward becoming a world-class manufacturer.