DARCHEM Engineering hopes to win more contracts in the nuclear industry after agreeing a partnership with Gateshead based company Studsvik.

Darchem, based at Stillington, near Stockton, and Studsvik have agreed to pool their expertise to supply nuclear heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC).

Darchem Engineering, a subsidiary of US company Esterline, has recognised the significance of the potential opportunities in both nuclear new build and decommissioning and invested in an £8m facility specifically to accommodate fabrications for the nuclear industry.

Its recent success has included a £50m contract from Sellafield for over waste containers.

The Tees Valley firm also has significant experience of manufacturing exhaust and ventilation products for other markets including highly regulated industries such as oil and gas and aerospace.

Studsvik's specialist services include engineering (containment ventilation), HVAC, decommissioning, implementation and commissioning capabilities as well as waste management consultancy services tailored to meet the needs of the nuclear market.

The collaboration between the two firms will enable the companies to offer a one stop shop service to clients.

Billy Meijer, the managing director at Darchem Engineering said:

“The partnership with Studsvik is an exciting next step in the successful implementation of our overall strategy for expansion in the nuclear industry.

"Studsvik has a respected position within the nuclear market and a particular expertise in nuclear ventilation.

"Darchem brings a broad strength in manufacturing for highly regulated industries with around 50 years’ experience of manufacture and installation in the nuclear industry worldwide. Together we can provide the optimum package for the customer for all of their nuclear ventilation needs.”

Ian Brown, the implementation manager at Studsvik said: “We recognised the need to enhance our full life cycle offering by forming a close relationship with a manufacturing organisation that has extensive experience within the nuclear environment. We believe one of the major benefits of having such an arrangement in place is providing a one stop shop for our customers. We have therefore formed a formal partnership with Darchem Engineering.”