Carter Manufacturing Ltd is marking over 25 years of bearing & aerospace excellence, establishing itself as a globally recognised leader in precision bearing engineering solutions for the industry’s most demanding applications.
From deep space missions to the hydrogen-powered aircraft of tomorrow, Oxfordshire based Carter Manufacturing continues to develop and lead precision bearing solutions across space exploration and next-generation sustainable aviation.
Founded in 2000 to represent Carter Manufacturing Inc. as European Master Distributor, the company has evolved from a specialist supplier into a trusted partner for Europe’s most critical aerospace programmes. The firm’s aerospace credentials run deep, anchored in what the industry calls “Space Heritage” a crucial achievement earned through decades of supplying components to both NASA and European Space Agency (ESA) missions.
A Proven Track Record in Space
Carter’s contribution to space exploration spans some of the sector’s most high-profile initiatives. From cam followers for the Mars Rover project, precision rod ends and aerospace bearing tools for the satellite programme, and critical components for deployable antenna systems across multiple space missions. This firsthand experience in extreme space environments, where failure is not an option has become foundational to the company’s technical philosophy.
In 2020, this expertise culminated in formal ESA approval as an authorised supplier of hybrid rocket propulsion bearings. This recognition validated Carter’s capabilities in one of aerospace’s most unforgiving applications and today, their portfolio spans an impressive range of space-critical components. This includes bearings for launch vehicle satellites, LOX turbo pumps and circulators, liquid methane pumps, reaction wheels, solar array gear box mechanisms, and space component door latches.
The critical foundation of these achievements is the uncompromising commitment to quality. Carter maintains ISO9001 certification with AS9120 aerospace requirements and AS9100 flow-down specifications, ensuring compliance with the industry’s most stringent standards. Every aerospace or space critical bearing supplied carries AS9102 Aerospace First Article Inspection Reports, providing complete traceability of raw materials, special processes, and comprehensive dimensional analysis. This level of documentation reflects the company’s understanding of what “mission-critical” truly means.
Investing in Capability and Infrastructure
Carter’s commitment to aerospace excellence extends beyond component supply into manufacturing capability. The company has invested in new UK manufacturing facilities for its sister company, UNASIS, incorporating cutting-edge five-axis CNC machinery and refurbished grinding equipment sourced from prominent aerospace bearing manufacturers. These facilities, along with specialised equipment enable production of highly customised special application bearings alongside comprehensive aerospace bearing installation, testing, and removal tools. This has proven invaluable across defence, nuclear, cryogenic, and medical sectors, alongside core aerospace applications.
Expanding Global Footprint:
New Offices and Logistics Hubs in Valencia and Minneapolis
In addition to its technological advancements and an important part of its ongoing expansion strategy, the company has recently opened new offices and logistics hubs in Valencia, Spain, and Minneapolis, USA. These strategic locations allow Carter to better serve its European, North American, South American & Canadian customers while enhancing supply chain efficiency and reducing lead times for key clients in aerospace, space, and industrial sectors. The expansion is a testament to Carter’s commitment to providing world-class service and innovation to a global clientele, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of the industries it serves.
Leading the Sustainable Aviation Transition
Most significantly for aerospace’s future, Carter has joined the groundbreaking FETCH (Future Engine Technology for the Control of Hydrogen) projects. This is a collaboration with the University of Bath, Cranfield University, Moog Inc., Baker Hughes Druck, and Curtiss-Wright Corporation under Aerospace Technology Institute support. This pioneering initiative aims to develop essential technologies for hydrogen fuel systems in next-generation aircraft, helping Carter to positioning themselves at the forefront of sustainable aviation innovation.
“What makes us exceptional is our team,” says Managing Director Karl Brundell. “We have the best bearing engineers and technical support in the industry, which allows us to solve our customers’ most challenging applications. The FETCH project exemplifies our commitment to advancing innovation in sustainable aviation.”
Looking Forward
As aviation transitions toward hydrogen propulsion and space exploration continues to push the boundaries of human endeavour, Carter Manufacturing’s quarter-century of proven expertise provides a foundation for the next 25 years.
With proven capabilities across NASA missions, ESA programmes, and emerging hydrogen technologies, combined with world-class manufacturing infrastructure and an engineering team recognised as industry-leading, Carter is uniquely positioned to supply the precision bearing solutions that will power aerospace’s future. Participation in multiple industry trade bodies reinforces this commitment to collaborative growth within the UK aerospace sector helping to ensure that Carter remain at the centre of Britain’s aerospace innovation landscape.
“The future is incredibly exciting,” says Karl Brundell Managing Director of Carter Manufacturing. “As we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of engineering, we look forward to new opportunities in space, aviation, and beyond. Our goal is to not only support the industries of today but to shape the industries of tomorrow. With a deep commitment to excellence, sustainability, and innovation, Carter Manufacturing Limited is positioned to continue making an indelible mark on the world of bearings and precision engineering for decades to come.”
More at: https://www.carterbearings.co.uk/history/ / https://www.carterbearings.co.uk/
