Company Spotlight: Morgan Ward NDT Limited

In the high-stakes world of aerospace and advanced manufacturing, structural integrity isn’t just a requirement—it’s a mandate. That’s where Morgan Ward NDT Limited steps in. With over 50 years of experience, this UK-based specialist in non-destructive testing (NDT) has become a trusted partner to aerospace OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and MRO facilities across the globe.

Proven Expertise in Critical Inspection

Founded in 1973 and headquartered in High Peak, Derbyshire, Morgan Ward delivers a full spectrum of NDT services designed to detect flaws, verify compliance, and extend the lifecycle of mission-critical components. Their capabilities include:

• Ultrasonic Testing (UT) – for internal defect detection in composites, welds, and metallic structures
• Dye Penetrant Inspection (DPI) – ideal for surface crack identification in precision-machined parts
• Magnetic Particle Testing (MPI) – for ferromagnetic materials used in landing gear, engine mounts, and more
• Radiographic Testing (RT) – enabling deep structural analysis without disassembly
• Bond Testing – crucial for composite assemblies and sandwich structures in aerospace applications

Whether on the shop floor, in the hangar, or at remote airfields, Morgan Ward’s technicians are equipped to deliver rapid, reliable results—especially in Aircraft on Ground (AOG) scenarios where time is of the essence.

Approvals & Certifications

Morgan Ward’s reputation is underpinned by a robust portfolio of national and international approvals, including:

• EASA Part 145 – Approval Number: UK.145.00439
• FAA Part 145 – Approval Number: M9WY359X
• NADCAP Accreditation – for NDT at multiple UK sites
• Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) – full current approval
• LRQA Certification – for quality management systems
• OEM Approvals – including Airbus (183193), BAE Systems (BAE/AG/10316/MAA), and Cessna (C-230)

These approvals reflect Morgan Ward’s commitment to quality, traceability, and regulatory compliance across the aerospace supply chain.

Supporting Advanced Manufacturing Across Borders

Morgan Ward operates multiple UK facilities and maintains a mobile inspection fleet capable of international deployment. Their services are aligned with aerospace standards and seamlessly integrate into global production and maintenance workflows.

Clients include manufacturers of airframes, engine components, and high-performance composites, as well as operators of legacy and next-gen aircraft. The company’s agility and depth of expertise make it a go-to resource for both production quality assurance and in-service maintenance.

Innovation Backed by Experience

Morgan Ward continues to invest in emerging technologies and workforce development. Recent support from Innovate UK has enabled the company to expand its training programs and explore advanced NDT techniques tailored to additive manufacturing, hybrid materials, and automation-driven inspection workflows.

Their commitment to innovation is matched by a strong safety culture and a meticulous approach to data integrity—qualities that resonate deeply with aerospace manufacturers navigating increasingly complex regulatory and operational landscapes.

Why It Matters

As aerospace companies push the boundaries of material science and manufacturing precision, the role of NDT becomes ever more strategic. Morgan Ward NDT Limited offers not just inspection services, but peace of mind—ensuring that every rivet, weld, and bonded joint meets the uncompromising standards of flight.

WHAT IS NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING



Non-destructive testing (NDT) is a set of techniques used to evaluate the integrity, properties, or condition of a material, component, or system—without causing any damage to it. It’s widely used in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, civil engineering, and energy sectors where safety and reliability are paramount.

Key Principles of NDT

• Preserves the item being tested: Unlike destructive testing, NDT allows the component to remain in service after inspection.
• Detects flaws and irregularities: Cracks, voids, corrosion, delamination, and other defects can be identified without dismantling or damaging the part.
• Supports preventive maintenance: NDT helps monitor wear and tear over time, reducing the risk of unexpected failures.

Why It Matters in Aerospace

• Ensures airworthiness and regulatory compliance
• Minimizes downtime during maintenance and repair
• Supports lightweight materials and complex geometries used in modern aircraft
• Enables early detection of fatigue and corrosion before catastrophic failure

NDT is essentially the silent guardian of aerospace safety—working behind the scenes to keep aircraft components reliable, efficient, and flight-ready.