Building skills for the future
Darchem has supported apprenticeships for over 50 years, helping to develop the next generation of skilled engineers. We are proud to be part of Hartlepool College’s 100 Club, having recruited over 100 apprentices through the college alone. Our programme combines hands-on experience with expert guidance, giving apprentices the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to real-world engineering projects from day one.
We invest in growth
We invest in the people, product and processes needed to serve our customers. We offer fully project managed installation and customer support as well.
Innovative Materials
We offer innovative materials and processes selected for each specific application. Our material choices are substantiated by in house testing and qualification (turn-key).
Engineering Resources
Our R&D department is dedicated to developing innovative sustainable solutions and we have vast engineering resources working on a diverse product portfolio.
Vast Expertise
We have a long track record of serving customers in a multitude of industries such as Automotive, Nuclear, Aerospace and Defence to name a few.
Our Values
Challenge
We take on the project’s others avoid. Complex problems are part of who we are, and every challenge is an opportunity to prove our capability and deliver engineered solutions that perform under pressure.
Creativity
At Darchem, creativity drives innovation. We encourage original thinking to develop effective solutions across our business. Unconventional challenges are met with inventive approaches that deliver real results.
Knowledge
Our expertise is built on decades of experience and continuous learning. We invest in staying ahead of industry developments, so our team is equipped to solve complex engineering problems with precision and confidence.
Our pedigree
The Rich History of Darchem Engineering
1954
Darchem incorporated as the British Refrasil Company
1956
First Aerospace order received, Jet pipe insulation
1959
First Nuclear order – Windscale AGR Hot Box insulation
1960
Name changed to Darchem Engineering Limited
1965
First parts for Concorde produced
1979
First Darshield fire protection order received
1981
Heysham/Torness Power station orders received
1985
100th Nuclear order received for Sizewell B
1994
Boeing 737 NG thrust reverser insulation order received
1996
Acquired Insumat- Gloucester (later to become Darchem Insulation Systems)
1998
Began to supply direct to the Aerospace aftermarket
2002
First parts produced for the Airbus A380
2002
Darchem Flare Test facility finalises Euro tunnel fire detection and water suppression system used on open lattice carriages
2004
Development of lightweight composite fire protection
2005
Received first orders for A320 & A330
2006
Received first A400M orders
2008
Darchem adds 14,489 m2 facility at the Stillington site
2010
First orders received for the A350
2018
First orders received for Hinkley Point C
2019
Acquired by Transdigm
