HARTZELL PROPELLER INC.
www.hartzellprop.com
Hartzell Propeller is the leading manufacturer of aircraft propeller systems in the world and serves the general aviation industry globally. Founded in 1917, the company has been owned by the Browns since 1987 when it was acquired from TRW. Hartzell is headquartered in Piqua, Ohio, and employs 300+ people.
Hartzell designs and builds constant-speed variable pitch propellers for general aviation applications – both piston engine and turboprop. Aircraft propellers are highly engineered flight-critical components tailored to individual aircraft. Hence, engineering and quality assurance skills are crucial to the business, as are best-of-class manufacturing capabilities.
Some of the capabilities of the business include:
- Close tolerance machining
- Corrosion-resistant, long-wear, and reliability-focused products
- Carbon composite fabrication capabilities
- Stringent regulatory and quality systems management
- Long product life cycle management
- Product liability and risk management
- Engineering and design
Hartzell sells its products in U.S. and foreign markets. The sales mix of two-thirds U.S. and one-third foreign mirrors worldwide aircraft activity. The company enjoys a happy mix of OEM and aftermarket sales.
Hartzell propellers are widely known and respected. The company has earned a sole-supplier position with many customers, including: Beech Aircraft (Hawker Beechcraft); Cirrus; Piaggio (Italy); Pilatus (Switzerland); and Socata (France).
Hartzell is led by Joe Brown, president, and assisted by chairman Jim Brown Jr.