Company Spotlight: Jaltek
Jaltek: Pioneering electronic solutions from Earth to Space
In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, Jaltek is advancing electronic design solutions across diverse industries.
Advanced electronics components designed by Jaltek.
The space industry has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, fuelled by a significant reduction in launch costs. This newfound affordability has spurred a surge in innovative applications, ranging from space debris collection to ambitious concepts like space-based solar power.
For Jaltek, a leading UK-based electronics design and manufacturing services provider, this evolution represents a strategic opportunity to leverage its expertise and contribute to pioneering projects in the rapidly expanding UK space sector.
Jaltek's approach to space technology is characterised by innovative design practices, rapid prototyping capabilities, and a focus on collaboration. With over 25 years’ experience in the field, they have a reputation for providing advanced electronic solutions, maintaining high-quality standards, and offering a customer-centric approach tailored to the specific requirements of space applications.
In the past, Jaltek has collaborated with industry leaders such as Thales Alenia Space and Honeywell. One project included the design and production of printed circuit boards (PCB) for the remote interface unit on BepiColumo. Flexible circuits were employed to enhance durability, minimise points of failure and reduce overall weight. More recent work includes PCB design and consultation for the European Space Agency (ESA) working on projects such as ALTIUS, CLIM, and ROSE-L.
The Jaltek story began in 1987 when Chris Day, now Jaltek’s Technical Director, started a design business that eventually would become the company that we know today. With a background in electronics, including an apprenticeship and early experience in circuit board design, Chris founded Abra Cad which he managed and saw grow for nearly two decades. In 2005, Jaltek acquired Abra Cad, and Chris joined the team to take charge of the company's design operations.
Today, the Luton-based company operates through two synergistic divisions: Jaltek Design Services and Jaltek Manufacturing Systems, both sitting under the umbrella of Jaltek Holdings. This organisational structure enables seamless integration, allowing the company to offer clients an integrated design and manufacturing solution, which spans the entire product lifecycle, ensuring a seamless transition from prototype to volume production.
Jaltek’s offices in Luton.
By merging these two critical phases early in development, Jaltek significantly reduces time to market and cost, while enhancing product reliability. This turnkey approach allows for a more agile response to the fast-paced nature of the space industry, where innovation and adaptability are paramount.
Jaltek has made notable contributions to space technology, including its involvement in the recent Space Solar project. This ambitious initiative aims to create a solar farm in space that can wirelessly transmit energy back to Earth. Jaltek's involvement in the rapid development of the HARRIER wireless transmitter, which completed in just eight months, demonstrates the company's ability to deliver advanced technology within a short timeframe. The Harrier's 360° electronic steering capability represents a significant advancement in space-based energy solutions, showcasing Jaltek’s innovative approach to addressing global energy challenges.
Moreover, Jaltek’s AS9100 certification demonstrates its adherence to rigorous aerospace standards, ensuring that all products meet the stringent requirements necessary for space applications. This certification not only enhances their credibility, but also positions them as a trusted partner for organisations seeking reliable electronic solutions for their space missions.
Collaboration is another cornerstone of Jaltek's approach. Strategically located in the nexus of four prominent clusters – Space South Central, Harwell Space Cluster, Midland Space Cluster and Space East – the company benefits from enhanced access to resources and expertise. This interconnectedness not only facilitates knowledge exchange but also allows Jaltek access to a wealth of resources and collaborative opportunities that drive technological advancements.
As the landscape of space technology continues to evolve, Jaltek stands out by prioritising innovation, collaboration, and a comprehensive understanding of client needs. Its unique blend of rapid prototyping capabilities, integrated design processes, and strong industry partnerships enable the company to deliver innovative solutions that push the boundaries of what is possible in space technology.
Chris Day, Technical Director, said:
“Our distinctive approach—marked by a commitment to integrated design, rapid execution, rigorous quality standards, and collaborative engagement—positions us as a vital player in the UK space industry. As the demand for innovative space solutions grows, we are well-equipped to meet these challenges head-on, shaping the future of electronics on Earth and in Space.”
For more information about Jaltek, visit https://www.jaltek.com.
