Bolstering additive manufacturing through American growth, GKN Aerospace plans expansion

GKN Aerospace, a leading aerospace company, is expanding its Newington, Connecticut facility to include a new production line for the fan case mount ring (FCMR) of the Pratt & Whitney GTF engine. This expansion marks a significant milestone for the company and the FCMR program.

The core structure of the FCMR, the additively manufactured 'hot size ring', is already being produced at GKN Aerospace's Trollhättan facility in Sweden. With the expansion, GKN Aerospace will be able to bring its additive fabrication technology into industrial-scale production, creating new jobs and strengthening its relationship with Pratt & Whitney.

The FCMR programme has received FAA certification and is on track for full serial production by the end of 2025. The expansion will enable production ramp-up and help meet broader market demand.

Joakim Andersson, President Engines of GKN Aerospace, commented on the Connecticut expansion, stating, "This is a significant milestone for the company and the FCMR program. The expansion will support the full volume of FCMR production in one place, creating new jobs and strengthening GKN Aerospace's presence in the United States."

GKN Aerospace's proprietary additive manufacturing process reduces material use, delivering more than 70% material savings and strengthening global supply chains by providing an alternative production method. This process is expected to contribute significantly to the company's ongoing commitment to innovation and customer delivery.

The Pratt & Whitney GTF engine powers the Airbus A220 and Embraer E195-E2. The expansion will enable GKN Aerospace to expand its additive fabrication offering to other customers in the USA.

The latest investment follows a US$50 million investment in 2024 to expand sustainable additive manufacturing capabilities for civil and military engine platforms worldwide. GKN Aerospace currently produces around 30 FCMR units per month at its Trollhättan facility in Sweden.

Sébastien Aknouche, SVP Material Solutions at GKN Aerospace, stated that the expansion will support the full volume of FCMR production in one place. The President of GKN Aerospace Engines, Joakim Andersson, emphasized the significance of this expansion for GKN Aerospace and the Fan Case Mount Ring program during the facility's inauguration.

GKN Aerospace operates two facilities in Connecticut, employing more than 450 people across the state. The expansion is expected to create even more jobs, further strengthening GKN Aerospace's presence in the United States.

Bolstering additive manufacturing through American growth, GKN Aerospace plans expansion