Universal Engineering

Business Overview

Based in Weymouth, Dorset, Universal Engineering has been in operation for more than 50 years. 

Universal Engineering is an engineering service provider with a mix of expert manufacturing capabilities which support the needs of its sub-sea, oil and gas, renewable energy, defence and aerospace customers. Founded on value engineering and project management, Universal Engineering builds systems, manufactures components and programmes work packages for customers who require high quality, documentation-intensive service, where optimising a client's  design for manufacture is central.

The Company operates in complex niche markets, and its innovative and agile approach ensures that customers receive a fast, flexible and cost effective solution. Continuous investment in modern machinery and equipment, improved processes, training and recognition of the value and skills of its people has created a stable and productive workforce.

Universal Engineering places significant importance upon individual development, internal communications and robust management systems. Universal Engineering’s core business is based around precision engineering and manufacturing for the defence, aerospace, communications, power and energy exploration industries.

Within defence, it operates within the land, sea and air environments where safety critical systems are paramount. Its contribution to the M777 lightweight howitzer programme typifies its manufacturing skills and the trust placed upon Universal Engineering by its larger customers and partners.

Universal Engineering’s markets and products have evolved and matured into the development of complete systems and equipments. The new RANGER armour protected patrol vehicle now typifies this full systems approach. RANGER was conceived, designed, constructed and brought to market in just 12 months from the decision to commit funding. Without doubt, it represents the next generation of mine resistant, armour protected (MRAP) vehicles now in huge demand on the hybrid battlefield of the 21st Century.

Universal’s solid foundations are based firmly on the quality, competitiveness and timely delivery of its core products. Military trailers are a good example and the sheer variety and scope of their production reflects highly on the organisations' design and development skills. The Company conceived and developed a bespoke auto-reverse disc braking system for its trailers. One of these trailers has been designed and supplied for the new MAN logistics support fleet. World leading combat vehicles such as the Jackal and Coyote off-road patrol craft begin their life in Weymouth where the complex chassis are hand made by skilled welders and craftsmen. Critical components of the UK military submarine fleet are also produced in Weymouth and a wide variety of parts for military helicopters such as the Lynx and Apache are also made to extremely demanding tolerances and accuracy.

The vertical launch “Sea Wolf” maritime air defence missile launch tubes are yet another example of Universal’s support to UK security, equipping the Type 42 destroyer fleet.  In addition, Universal's wiring loom workshops produce electrical harnesses for helicopters and ground vehicles.

Sub-surface elements of the oil and gas exploration market are also designed and manufactured to high tolerances. The sub-sea distribution units (SDUs) must be capable of  seamless 'docking' by  remotely operated vehicles (ROVs),  and must be guaranteed to remain on the sea bed for up to 25 years and retain their reliability throughout their demanding life.

Universal Engineering prides itself on quality, innovation and technical
excellence and on  its world leading technical skills, ISO 9001:2000 and AS9100 quality accreditations, Supply Chain 21 (SC21) accreditation, a fully resourced Integrated Logistical Systems (ILS) team and strong project management ensure a complete understanding of the customers requirement.