August 11, 2022

Hartzell forms new parent company, acquires Acorn Welding of Edmonton

Jon Robinson

Tailwind Technologies Inc., part of the investment holdings of brothers James and Joseph Brow, has formed Hartzell Aviation, a newly named company with historic roots in General Aviation. The storied brands of the new Hartzell Aviation include Hartzell Propeller, Hartzell Aerospace Welding and Hartzell Engine Tech.

“The independent operating companies and products under the Hartzell Aviation banner will carry on a strong and rich tradition, with a history dating back to the Wright Brothers when Orville encouraged his neighbor Robert N. Hartzell to begin manufacturing airplane propellers,” said James Brown.

Hartzell Aviation’s flagship company is Hartzell Propeller, focused on propeller design and manufacturing for business, commercial and government customers. President JJ Frigge heads the division, which is headquartered in Piqua, Ohio.

Hartzell Aerospace Welding holds core competencies of certified welding, precision machining and sheet metal fabrication. President Ryan Latham leads the operating division, which is located in Eagan, Minn. At 2022 EAA AirVenture, Hartzell Aerospace Welding expanded with the acquisition of Acorn Welding based in Edmonton, Alberta.

Hartzell Engine Tech, previously Hartzell Engine Technologies, offers a product portfolio consisting of Janitrol Aero, Fuelcraft, Plane-Power, Sky-Tec and AeroForce Turbocharger Systems.

(Photo: Hartzell, Diamond Aircraft)