Pratt & Whitney is to make a $20 million investment to grow its manufacturing capacity in Singapore for the production of GTF engine high pressure turbine (HPT) disks. The capacity expansion is expected to increase the facility's workforce by more than 10% over the next two years.

The facility currently produces 2,400 turbine disks annually, and the expansion is expected to increase annual output yield of the disks by approximately 45% by January 2026. The expansion will also improve the facility's capacity to intake raw materials, maintain inventory, and keep production and deliveries on schedule.

"This is a critical expansion to enable us to keep pace with the fleet of GTF engines and high-pressure turbine disks," says Marc Paquet, general manager for P&W NGPF Manufacturing Company Singapore Pte Ltd. "With this latest development we are focused on automation and connectivity as part of our commitment to Industry 4.0 principles that aim to enhance operational efficiency and productivity."

Pratt & Whitney's Singapore manufacturing facility achieved full operational capability in June 2023, and plays a key role in the company's production of critical components for the GTF engine family. The facility uses wall-to-wall closed-door machining and actively integrates the latest technology and automation into the manufacturing process.

The 20,500 square metre facility produces hybrid metallic fan blades and highly complex turbine components. The Singapore facility, a joint venture between Pratt & Whitney and Hanwha Aerospace Co., Ltd., is the second Pratt & Whitney fan blade and HPT disk production facility in the world, playing a critical role in supporting customer needs in Asia Pacific and beyond.