Pratt Turbine Overhaul Services Adds Efficiency

Singapore-based engine component specialist Pratt & Whitney Turbine Overhaul Services (TOS, Stand L39), seeking to boost efficiency, has added an automated inspection system, laser cladding technology and improved electron beam physical vapor deposition capabilities.

Automating inspections shaves 10 percent off of the manual-inspection process and requires fewer tools, which adds to the cost reductions, the company—a joint venture between Pratt and Singapore Technologies Aerospace—said. Laser cladding improves welding accuracy, which reduces re-work rates, TOS explained. The vapor deposition process applies coatings to parts that improves durability, increasing repair intervals.

"A higher degree of automation bolsters our efficiency and ability to provide high quality and consistently repeatable results,” said Brendon McWilliam, Pratt's senior director, aftermarket operations Asia-Pacific. “Our advanced electron beam physical vapor deposition capability will allow us to apply coatings for existing engines, including the [PW1000G] Geared Turbofan.”