20 News Items to Keep You Current

May 15, 2026 / HEAT TREAT NEWS

Heat Treat Today offers News Chatter, a feature highlighting representative moves, transactions, and kudos from around the industry. Enjoy these 20 news items, including Advanced Heat Treat Corp.’s Iowa expansion to grow carburizing and hardening capacity, Allied Graphite’s collaboration with Harper International and ONEJOON Gmbh to scale vertical furnace technology for battery-grade graphite production, Vac Aero International’s AS9100 certification achievement at its Greenville facility, and more!

Equipment

1. Advanced Heat Treat Corp. (AHT), a global provider of commercial heat treat services and metallurgical solutions, is expanding its Waterloo, Iowa, facility to increase capacity for carburizing, through hardening, normalizing, and other heat treatment processes. The 18,000 sq. ft. project broke ground on April 6 and is expected to be completed by fall 2026.

2. Treatnorte, a commercial heat treat company, will add a new vacuum furnace supplied by SECO/WARWICK to support vacuum heat treatment of tool steel, improving process control and consistency for components used in manufacturing applications.

3. RTX’s Pratt & Whitney, a North American aerospace manufacturer headquartered in East Hartford, Connecticut, is investing $100 million to expand production capacity through advanced manufacturing processes, including heat treatment of forged engine components, to support increased output of commercial and military aircraft engines. The expansion is expected to strengthen supply for aerospace programs and improve throughput of critical engine parts used across global aviation fleets.

4. A U.S. national laboratory has selected a plasma gas atomization (PGA) system supplied by Retech, a division of SECO/WARWICK Group in support of a critical materials initiative. The pilot-scale program will enable advanced powder development for next-generation materials used in high-performance manufacturing and emerging technologies.

5. Wallwork Group is doubling its hot isostatic pressing (HIP) capacity with the installation of a second HIP system supplied by Quintus Technologies to support improved component integrity and performance for aerospace applications.

6. Andis Company, a U.S.-based manufacturer of grooming tools, has completed a controls upgrade on a vacuum heat treat furnace used for hardening components. With support from ECM USA, the upgrade supports continued operation of a system critical to its production.

7. A U.S.-based aerospace manufacturer is expanding its heat treat capabilities for bearing components with the addition of vacuum heat treatment furnace supplied by SECO/WARWICK. The Vector vacuum furnace is equipped with a 15-bar absolute high-pressure gas quenching system that has been customized to meet the client’s requirements by integrating the low-pressure carburizing (LPC) option. The move supports increasing production capacity, process quality, and operational flexibility.

8. HYUNDAI-POSCO Louisiana Steel has selected SMS group to supply rolling mill technology for a new steel plant in Louisiana set to begin operations in 2029. The multi-billion-dollar project will produce high-quality automotive steel using advanced hot and cold rolling processes, supporting domestic supply for U.S. automakers and strengthening North American steel manufacturing capacity.

9. Gazi Metal has awarded Pomini Tenova a contract to supply a foundation-free roll grinding machine to expand roll shop capacity at its Karasu facility in Türkiye. The equipment is designed to improve precision, increase throughput, and streamline installation, supporting higher production efficiency for cold-rolled steel operations.

Advanced powder development for next-generation materials

Vacuum heat treatment furnace supplied by **SECO**/WARWICK for U.S. aerospace manufacturer

Company & Personnel

10. Allied Graphite is working with Harper International and ONEJOON GmbH to scale vertical furnace technology for battery-grade graphite production. Led by CEO Andy Goshe, this partnership to develop, validate, and provide engineering data for vertical furnace solutions will support the company’s progress toward commercial-scale production.

11. Velontra, a Cincinnati, Ohio-based startup, partnered with Innovative 3D Manufacturing, a rapid prototyping company in Franklin, Indiana, to produce propulsion system components using laser power bed fusion (L-PBF) technology from Renishaw. The approach enables rapid prototyping while addressing material use, dimensional tolerances, and cost constraints.

12. Signature Vacuum Systems, a small manufacturer of vacuum furnace equipment, recently implemented an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), placing partial ownership of the company into a trust that benefits its employees. The transition reflects a growing interest among small- to mid-sized manufacturing companies in alternatives to traditional ownership succession — particularly as many in the industry face workforce turnover and the challenge of preserving decades of accumulated knowledge.

13. Bluewater Thermal Solutions promotes David Farnham to CFO, effective April 27, 2026. In this role, David will oversee all aspects of finance, accounting, planning and analysis, and financial strategy, partnering closely with operations and executive leadership to drive long-term, sustainable growth.

14. Phoenix Heat Treating has added a third Pratt & Whitney-certified LCS representative to expand its ability to certify aerospace hardware in-house and support aluminum solution heat treating work. The move is expected to improve lead times and strengthen process control for aerospace manufacturers and machine shops supplying Pratt & Whitney programs.

15. The Precision Metalforming Association has appointed Mark Getsay as managing director as part of a broader leadership restructuring aimed at strengthening member engagement and supporting growth across the North American metalforming industry. The transition also includes the promotion of Katlyn Stratis to executive director of member services and the creation of a new membership leadership role, reinforcing support for manufacturers and suppliers serving precision metalforming and related manufacturing sectors.

16. AICHELIN Americas has appointed Wm. Wright & Associates as a regional representative to support its portfolio of thermal processing equipment, technologies, and services across North America. The partnership expands access to brands like AFC-Holcroft, Nitrex, and UPC-Marathon, aiming to improve local support, streamline service, and strengthen lifecycle solutions for manufacturers.

17. ABB AB Sweden and SMS group GmbH have agreed to work in partnership to jointly market and further develop FC Mold X (Flow Control Mold X), and electromagnetic flow-control system for thin and medium slab continuous casting.

18. Skuld LLC is leading a project in the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Rubble to Rockets (R2R) program to develop methods for converting scrap metal into usable components through advanced manufacturing approaches. Skuld contributes research in alloy characterization, casting evaluations, and AI-supported design methodologies. It is collaborating with partners including Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Foundry Casting Systems, MatMicronia LLC, and other research partners working across materials science, AI/machine learning, and advanced manufacturing.

Vertical furnace technology for battery-grade graphite production

David Farnham, newly promoted CFO of Bluewater Thermal Solutions

Kudos

19. Vac Aero International‘s Greenville, South Carolina facility has achieved AS9100 certification.

20. Hindalco-Almex Aerospace Limited has secured the NADCAP certification for the Non-Destructive Testing (UT) process which is a hallmark of aerospace quality.

The Greenville Vac Aero team posing with its AS9100 certification

20 News Items to Keep You Current Read More »

$100M Expansion Targets Engine Component Production Growth

April 24, 2026 / AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT NEWS, FORGING NEWS

RTX’s Pratt & Whitney, a North American aerospace manufacturer headquartered in East Hartford, Connecticut, is investing $100 million to expand production capacity through advanced manufacturing processes, including heat treatment of forged engine components, to support increased output of commercial and military aircraft engines. The expansion is expected to strengthen supply for aerospace programs and improve throughput of critical engine parts used across global aviation fleets.

The investment will be made at the company’s facility in Rzeszów, Poland, where operations will be expanded to include additional processing capabilities and production capacity. The site supports manufacturing for several engine programs. including GTF™, F135, and F100 platforms, which serve both commercial aviation and defense applications.

Piotr Owsicki
General Manager
Pratt & Whitney Rzeszów

As part of the project, the company plans to add new capabilities focused on processing isothermally forged components, including heat treatment, sonic machining, and inspection operations. This expansion follows and supports the recently announced $200 million investment in a seventh isothermal forging press at Pratt & Whitney’s Columbus Forge facility in Georgia, U.S.

The expansion is intended to address growing global demand for aircraft engines and related components. “This investment reflects our continued commitment to increase production capacity for our [clients] and deliver more, faster,” said Piotr Owsicki, general manager of Pratt & Whitney Rzeszów. The capital project, expected to be fully operational by 2028, will enable a 30% increase in output of critical engine parts such as rotating compressor and turbine disks.

Press release is available in its original form here.

$100M Expansion Targets Engine Component Production Growth Read More »

22 News Chatter to Keep You Current

March 13, 2026 / HEAT TREAT NEWS

Heat Treat Today offers News Chatter, a feature highlighting representative moves, transactions, and kudos from around the industry. Enjoy these 22 news items, including Advanced Heat Treat Corp.’s expansion of induction hardening and gas nitriding capacity in Alabama, Dauch Corporation’s acquisition of Dowlais Group, CAN-ENG Furnaces International’s new certification as a FANUC Authorized System Integrator, and more!

Equipment

1. Urschel Laboratories, a manufacturer of precision food-cutting equipment, has ordered a new MetalMaster HR vacuum furnace from Ipsen USA to support in-house heat treating of stainless steel components used in its machines. The system will replace a furnace that has been operating since 1986 and marks Urschel’s sixth furnace purchase from Ipsen, reflecting a decades-long partnership. The upgrade is expected to strengthen Urschel’s manufacturing efficiency and product reliability, reinforcing equipment performance across the global food processing industry it serves.

2. BTOMEC Ferramentaria e Usinagem de Precisão Ltda., a manufacturer of multi-cavity injection molds, has invested in a Vector vacuum furnace from SECO/WARWICK to bring die and tooling hardening in-house. The move enables the company to reduce reliance on external heat treaters while gaining greater control over production timelines, costs, and quality. The investment reflects a broader industry trend of manufacturers establishing internal heat treat capabilities as production volumes grow.

3. JISCO Carbon Steel has commissioned a new integrated CSP®-HSM production line at its Jiayuguan facility, combining Compact Strip Production casting with a hot strip mill in a fully automated system supplied by SMS Group. The upgrade doubles the plant’s annual production capacity from about 2 million to 4.5 million tons while improving operational flexibility and process integration between casting and rolling. The project strengthens JISCO’s ability to deliver consistent flat-steel products for global manufacturing markets.

4. Grace Manufacturing has installed a new TITAN H2 vacuum furnace from Ipsen at its Russellville, Arkansas facility to expand heat treating capabilities for thin martensitic stainless steel components used in medical devices. The system replaces an aging furnace and was selected after third-party testing confirmed it met the company’s processing requirements. The upgrade strengthens production reliability and metallurgical control for precision medical manufacturing.

5. An international aircraft motion-control manufacturer has ordered an additional low-temperature vacuum tempering furnace from SECO/WARWICK’s U.S. subsidiary to expand its heat treat capacity for precision aerospace components. The system will support tempering, aging, and other sub-critical heat treat processes while meeting stringent aerospace thermal-processing standards.

6. Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, is investing $200 million to expand its Columbus, Georgia, manufacturing site with a seventh isothermal forging press to produce rotating compressor and turbine disks for commercial and military jet engines. The new equipment is expected to increase output of these critical engine components by about 30% and is scheduled to be operational in 2028. The expansion strengthens production capacity for next-generation aerospace engine programs and supports growing global demand for aircraft propulsion systems.

7. A defense-sector firearm manufacturer has selected a vacuum furnace system from SECO/WARWICK to support carburizing and heat treatment of steel components used in firearm production. The new equipment will enhance control over case hardening processes, helping improve durability and performance of critical firearm parts. The investment strengthens thermal processing capacity within the defense manufacturing supply chain.

8. Advanced Heat Treat Corp. (AHT) has expanded induction hardening and gas nitriding capacity at its Cullman, Alabama facility, adding a larger induction system and an additional nitriding unit. The upgrade enables the processing of larger and more complex components while supporting higher production volumes. The investment strengthens surface hardening capabilities for manufacturers by improving throughput and maintaining fast turnaround times for industrial parts.

9. Bodycote has installed a new diffusion hardening treatment vessel at its Mooresville, North Carolina facility, expanding stainless steel processing capabilities in North America. The system enables the company to surface-harden larger components using its ADM® low-temperature diffusion hardening process. The investment broadens capacity for industries such as oil and gas, food and beverage, and medical technology by improving durability of stainless steel parts while maintaining corrosion resistance.

10. Gasbarre Thermal Processing Systems will supply a custom-engineered box furnace and loading system to a U.S. government manufacturing facility to expand a previously validated high-temperature thermal process. The system, designed to meet strict space and operational constraints, will operate up to 2100°F in an air atmosphere and represents the largest configuration the facility can accommodate. The installation enables the government manufacturer to scale production while maintaining specialized thermal processing capabilities.

11. A China-based manufacturer of vacuum circuit breakers has ordered two vacuum furnaces from SECO/WARWICK to add vacuum brazing capability for producing vacuum interrupter components used in power distribution systems. The installation expands the manufacturer’s ability to produce brazed, hermetically sealed interrupter assemblies used in circuit breakers that interrupt electrical current in industrial and utility power networks.

12. PSW Group has opened a new High Integrity Diecasting Center at its Magretech plant in Bellevue, Ohio, focused on semi-solid casting technologies for aluminum and magnesium components. Led by Dr. Tao Wang, the facility allows OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and die casters to trial, develop, and scale advanced casting processes using semi-solid and high-pressure die-casting methods. The center aims to accelerate development of lighter, stronger, and lower-carbon metal components, supporting innovation and faster time-to-market across the automotive and light-metal manufacturing sectors.

Ipsen MetalMaster furnace originally commissioned in 1986 awaiting replacement at Urschel

An Ipsen TITAN H2 vacuum furnace for Grace Manufacturing

A new SECO/WARWICK furnace strengthening the defense manufacturing supply chain

Custom-engineered box furnace from Gasbarre Thermal Processing Systems

Company & Personnel

13. Dauch Corporation has completed its acquisition of Dowlais Group plc, bringing together major automotive manufacturing operations including GKN Automotive and GKN Powder Metallurgy. The combined company expands global capabilities in driveline systems, metal forming, and powder metallurgy under the leadership of CEO David C. Dauch. The move strengthens supply and engineering capacity for internal combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicle platforms across the global automotive industry.

14. U.S. Aluminum Company has signed an agreement with Emirates Global Aluminum (EGA) and Century Aluminum to explore building a downstream aluminum fabrication facility in Inola, Oklahoma, near a planned primary aluminum smelter. The proposed plant would convert molten aluminum into value-added products for sectors such as electrical, defense, aerospace, automotive, and machinery manufacturing. The project aims to strengthen U.S. aluminum supply chains and help expand domestic primary aluminum production capacity.

15. The AICHELIN Group has appointed Daniel Panny as head of United Process Controls (UPC) in Göppingen and Mike Löpke as head of QMULUS in Düsseldorf as part of organizational changes following the integration of NITREX. The leadership updates strengthen the group’s focus on automation, plant control, and IIoT-driven digital solutions for heat treatment operations. The move supports closer integration of furnace technology, process expertise, and data-driven optimization across the global heat treat industry.

16. SECO/WARWICK has appointed Pan Gaojun as managing director of SECO/WARWICK China, following a succession process within the company. Gaojun, who joined the group in 2010, will lead operational development and strengthen the company’s presence in key technologies such as CAB lines and vacuum furnaces in the Asian market. The leadership change is intended to support continued growth and strengthen SECO/WARWICK’s position in China’s expanding heat treat and thermal-processing sector.

17. Vienna-based refractory manufacturer RATH AG has appointed Christian Morawetz as chief operating officer, bringing the experienced operations executive onto its Executive Board to oversee production, purchasing, R&D, quality management, and IT across the company’s global manufacturing operations. Morawetz’s leadership and industrial management experience are expected to strengthen operational efficiency and innovation as the company undertakes a broader transformation of its product portfolio and production structures to better serve high-temperature industries such as steel, glass, and ceramics.

Change of leadership at SECO/WARWICK China with newly appointed managing director Pan Gaojun

Kudos

18. The U.S. Department of War (formerly Department of Defense) has awarded contracts through the Defense Logistics Agency to 24 manufacturers to supply additively manufactured metal and polymer parts under the Joint Additive Manufacturing Acceptability (JAMA) IV pilot program. The firm-fixed-price IDIQ contract, valued at up to $9.8 million with a base period through Feb. 2027, allows the Pentagon to issue task orders for 3D-printed components supporting U.S. military programs.

19. CAN-ENG Furnaces International Ltd. has been certified as a FANUC Authorized System Integrator, expanding its capabilities in robotic automation for industrial furnace and thermal-processing systems. The certification allows CAN-ENG to design and integrate FANUC robots into heat treat operations, including material handling and high-volume furnace automation. The partnership strengthens automation options for manufacturers seeking greater efficiency, reliability, and safety in heat treat and thermal processing environments.

20. Burloak Technologies Inc., based in Oakville, Ontario, has completed its latest Nadcap audit, enabling its heat treatment capabilities to support demanding industries. The certification reinforces the company’s thermal processing services — including hot isostatic pressing (HIP), vacuum heat treatment, and alloy heat treat cycles — used in sectors such as aerospace, defense, automotive, and medical manufacturing.

21. Stack Metallurgical Group announced that its Salt Lake City facility, Aerospace Aluminum Processing (ASAP), has achieved AS9100D certification following an audit completed with zero findings. The accreditation strengthens the facility’s quality credentials for aerospace aluminum heat treating and related processing, reinforcing its role in supporting high-spec aerospace manufacturing and positioning other Stack facilities to pursue similar approvals.

22. Aalberts surface technologies announced that its Cleveland, Ohio, and Kansas City facilities have earned Nadcap 24-Month Merit Accreditation for heat treating, effective February 10, 2026. The designation — achieved after years of near-zero audit findings and strict AMS2750 pyrometry compliance — signals strong process discipline and quality systems for aerospace heat treat operations, helping reduce supplier risk and strengthen reliability across the aerospace manufacturing supply chain.

FANUC Authorized System Integrator certification for CAN-ENG Furnaces

Stack Metallurgical Group’s Aerospace Aluminum Processing receiving its AS9100D certification

22 News Chatter to Keep You Current Read More »

Pratt & Whitney Isothermal Forging Expansion for Jet Engine Parts Production

March 2, 2026 / AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT NEWS, FORGING NEWS

Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, is investing $200 million to expand manufacturing at its Columbus, Georgia, site with the addition of a seventh isothermal forging press. The equipment, which will support production of rotating compressor and turbine disks for commercial and military jet engines, is expected to be operational in 2028 and is projected to increase output of these critical components by about 30 percent.

The funding will expand operations at the Columbus Forge facility, where compressor airfoils and high-strength disk components are manufactured for the company’s commercial and military engine platforms. The site is part of the broader Columbus campus that also includes the Columbus Engine Center, where maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) work is performed on engines like the PW1100G-JM, V2500, PW2000, F117, and F100.

The latest investment at the Columbus Forge facility follows an 81,000-square-foot GTF MRO expansion at Pratt & Whitney’s Columbus Engine Center, located on the same campus. This expansion added advanced equipment and machinery that aligned with the company’s Industry 4.0 strategy. The facility’s annual capacity increased by more than 25%, adding critical overhaul volume to the GTF MRO network in support of the growing fleet.

The Columbus complex has grown from a small manufacturing facility to a manufacturing and overhaul center that now employs 2,600 people. “Since 2008, we have invested more than $1 billion to continue expanding the footprint and capabilities of our Columbus facility. This latest investment will increase output of critical parts for our growing military and commercial engine programs and underscores our ongoing commitment to ramp industrial capacity to support our [clients],” said Shane Eddy, president of Pratt & Whitney.

Press release is available in its original form here.
Main image shows Pratt & Whitney President Shane Eddy joined with Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and other company, state, and local leaders to celebrate two major expansions of Pratt & Whitney’s Columbus, Georgia facility on February 24, 2026.

Pratt & Whitney Isothermal Forging Expansion for Jet Engine Parts Production Read More »

Pratt & Whitney’s New Airfoil Foundry in Asheville, NC, To Create 800+ Jobs

November 30, 2022 / AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT, FEATURED NEWS

HTD Size-PR Logo

Shane Eddy
President
Pratt & Whitney
Source: LinkedIn

Pratt & Whitney staged a ribbon-cutting event for its new turbine airfoil plant in Asheville, NC. The plant forecasts 800 new jobs at the foundry location through 2027.

Described as an “advanced casting foundry,” the plant will have casting capability for airfoil structures for turbofan and high-pressure jet engines. Production of specialty alloy parts with directionally solidified and single-crystal oriented structures will take place along with onsite machining, coating, and finishing capabilities. The new airfoil operation in North Carolina will start in Q2 2023, casting airfoil structures for commercial and military jet engines.

“Pratt & Whitney’s new Asheville facility . . . will support growing demand for GTF engine-powered aircraft and for the F135 engine, which powers the F-35 Lightning II,” stated Shane Eddy, president of Pratt & Whitney.

Find heat treating products and services when you search on Heat Treat Buyers Guide.com

Pratt & Whitney’s New Airfoil Foundry in Asheville, NC, To Create 800+ Jobs Read More »

20 Quick Heat Treat News Chatter Items to Keep You Current

November 15, 2019 / FEATURED NEWS, HEAT TREAT NEWS INDUSTRIES

Heat Treat Today offers News Chatter, a feature highlighting representative moves, transactions, and kudos from around the industry.

Personnel & Company Chatter

Bharat Forge America Inc. will build an aluminum forging plant to manufacture automobile components in Sanford, North Carolina.
Ipsen USA recently announced the completion of an initiative to expand aftermarket services across the United States and Canada. Five regional sales engineers (RSEs) were hired over the last six months to assist customers with replacement parts, retrofits, upgrades, service, and technical support for any brand of atmosphere or vacuum heat-treating system.
An industrial heating technology company, Kanthal, recently launched an additive manufacturing service that will produce heating elements and components, as well as developing a new iron-chromium-aluminum alloy called Kanthal AM100.
GKN Aerospace has been selected as a key supplier on the new Gulfstream G700 business jet. The company is using its expertise in the design and manufacture of business jet empennages and thermoplastic components on the advanced aircraft. The rudder and elevators that are part of the empennage, as well as the floorboards, feature the latest thermoplastic technology. GKN Aerospace also produces the bonded fuselage panels for the new fuselage.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony recently marked the opening the new corporate headquarters and manufacturing facility of Process Cooling Systems, Inc. in Massachusetts.
Gasbarre Thermal Processing Systems recently partnered with Humberto Bastidas from Thermal Technic Furnace Solutions. Gasbarre will be working with Humberto and his team to launch a Spanish version of Gasbarre.com in the coming weeks and will assist with other marketing efforts in that region.

Equipment Chatter

A manufacturer of products from carbon recently provided large, custom Sigrabond Performance CFC fixtures to a North American aerospace company. By replacing the current alloy fixture with the new CFC fixtures from SGL Carbon, the customer increased part/fixture weight ratio from 62/38 to 87/13.
Two electrically heated multi-zone curing ovens were recently shipped to the composites industry by Wisconsin Oven for the purpose of curing carbon fiber threads.
A Model FB1046 floor-standing box furnace has been shipped by L&L Special Furnace Co, Inc., to a worldwide leader of high tech aerospace and associated components located in the Southeastern United States. The furnace will be used for processing aerospace parts and various thermal applications.
Danieli Olivotto Ferrè recently started up a tube roller hearth annealing furnace at Tenaris Tamsa, in Veracruz, part of one of the world’s largest manufacturers of steel pipe for the energy and automotive industries. The furnace is designed to treat steel tubes coming from cold or hot processing with a maximum throughput of 5 tons/h. The flexible furnace is able to perform different heat-treatment cycles, including normalizing, annealing, tempering and stress relieving. In addition, Danieli has been selected to supply the new electric arc furnace (EAF) melt shop and plate-/steckel-mill, as well as an electrical and automation package provided by Danieli Automation, for Nucor Corporation and its new greenfield plate steel mill complex in Brandenburg, Kentucky.
Dana Incorporated announced the expansion of a joint engineering agreement with Fendt, a worldwide brand of AGCO. Over the past three years, the companies have co-developed advanced Spicer^® 980 independent suspended axles for the new Fendt 900 Vario series of large tractors.
Allegheny Technologies Incorporated announced it signed another 1-year agreement to extend and expand carbon steel hot-rolling conversion services for NLMK USA at its world-class hot rolling and processing facility, or HRPF, located in Brackenridge, Pennsylvania.
A global leading stainless steel manufacturer with headquarters in Spain, Acerinox, S.A., has reached an agreement for the acquisition from Lindsay Goldberg Vogel GmbH and Falcon Metals BV. of VDM Metals Holding GmbH, with headquarters in Germany and leading producer of specialty alloys.
A vacuum furnace for processing additive manufactured parts has been shipped to a large science and technology laboratory by Solar Manufacturing. The lab requires the furnace to further research and development work.
Through its subsidiary, Tenova Goodfellow Inc., Canada, Tenova installed and commissioned a peak shaver at VINA Kyoei Steel, Vietnam, providing continuous improvement for melt shop operations.

Kudos Chatter

A Ph.D. student at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland, Lewis Print is the inaugural winner of an international student award in industrial heating, the Kanthal® Student Award, presented by industrial heating technology company Kanthal. The award has been made for his work on the development of new technology for the production of silicon carbide (SiC) heating elements used in high-temperature industrial processes operating in the range 2012°F-2912°F (1100°C-1600°C).
At the October fall meeting in Vancouver, Canada, the Metal Treating Institute (MTI) recognized Mary Springer from Thermtech in Waukesha, Wisconsin, with the Heritage Award. The Heritage Award is MTI’s most prestigious award.
The Center for Materials Processing Data (CMPD) recently announced three organizations have committed to the Center’s inaugural Industry Member class: Pratt & Whitney (a founding industry member), MTS Systems Corporation, and Weber Metals. This commitment, operating to solidify its formation, has allowed CMPD to greenlight a pilot project focused on the material flow behavior as a function of temperature, strain rate, composition, and prior microstructure processing.
Pelican Wire was named the winner of the 25^th annual Southwest Florida Blue Chip Community Business Award at this year’s luncheon and awards ceremony. Chosen by an independent panel of judges, the criteria are centered around overcoming adversity to achieve success.
ASB Industries, Barberton, Ohio, announced that Charles Kay, ASB vice president, was recognized as an ASM Fellow at the annual ASM Awards Banquet in October. The award citation states, “For global technical leadership in innovative thermal spray technologies, mentoring thermal spray practitioners, and sustained dedicated volunteer service to the thermal spray community.”

Heat Treat Today is pleased to join in the announcements of growth and achievement throughout the industry by highlighting them here on our News Chatter page. Please send any information you feel may be of interest to manufacturers with in-house heat treat departments especially in the aerospace, automotive, medical, and energy sectors to editor@heattreattoday.com

20 Quick Heat Treat News Chatter Items to Keep You Current Read More »

Pratt & Whitney Awarded F135 Production Contract

October 23, 2019 / AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT, AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT NEWS

Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corp., recently announced that it has been awarded a production contract for the 12^th and 13^th lots of F135 propulsion systems, powering all three variants of the F-35 Lightning II aircraft.

Matthew Bromberg, president of Pratt & Whitney Military Engines

This award represents the largest-ever F135 production contract, funding more than 332 engines for the U.S. armed services and international customers, and includes program management, engineering support, production support, and tooling. The total contract value for Lot 12-14 is approximately $5.7 billion and it covers all Lot 12 and Lot 13 engines, with priced options for Lot 14.

“This is a significant milestone for the program and underscores the hard work of our joint government and industry team,” said Matthew Bromberg, president of Pratt & Whitney Military Engines. “We’re proud to be delivering 5th-generation propulsion capability at a great value for the warfighter. With more than 500 F135 engines delivered to date, we’re at an exciting inflection point for the program. We are laser-focused on standing up an effective global sustainment network that will support the F135 throughout its lifecycle.”

The combat-proven F135 is the most advanced fighter engine ever produced, delivering more than 40,000 lbs. of thrust and unmatched advances in safety, design, performance, and reliability.

Pratt & Whitney Awarded F135 Production Contract Read More »

Aerospace Tech Provider Refines Focus with Acquisition, Spin Offs

December 10, 2018 / AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT, AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT NEWS, FEATURED NEWS

In one of the largest acquisitions in aerospace history, a high technology product and service provider to the building and aerospace industries recently announced the completion of its purchase of a company that provides avionics and information technology systems and services to government agencies and aerospace manufacturers.

United Technologies Corporation’s (UTC) acquisition brings together Rockwell Collins and UTC Aerospace Systems to create Collins Aerospace Systems.

Gregory Hayes, United Technologies Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

“Collins Aerospace brings together two great companies with unmatched expertise in developing electrical, mechanical and software solutions,” said Gregory Hayes, United Technologies Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We will have a laser focus on developing innovative solutions for customers and generating strong returns for shareowners.”

In addition, the Farmington, Connecticut-based, UTC announced its intention to spin off its commercial businesses, Otis and Carrier (renamed, formerly Climate, Controls & Security), into independent entities. The acquisition and separation will result in three global companies:

United Technologies, comprised of Collins Aerospace Systems and Pratt & Whitney, to be a systems supplier to the aerospace and defense industry; Collins Aerospace was formed through the combination of UTC Aerospace Systems and Rockwell Collins;
Otis, the world’s leading manufacturer of elevators, escalators and moving walkways; and
Carrier, a global provider of HVAC, refrigeration, building automation, fire safety, and security products.

“Our decision to separate United Technologies is a pivotal moment in our history and will best position each independent company to drive sustained growth, lead its industry in innovation and customer focus, and maximize value creation,” said Hayes. “Our products make modern life possible for billions of people. I’m confident that each company will continue our proud history of performance, excellence, and innovation while building an even brighter future. As standalone companies, United Technologies, Otis and Carrier will be ready to solve our customers’ biggest challenges, provide rewarding career opportunities, and contribute positively to communities around the world.”

Aerospace Tech Provider Refines Focus with Acquisition, Spin Offs Read More »

Delta Air Lines, Airbus Group Select Engine, First Order for 100 A321neo Aircraft

January 22, 2018 / AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT, AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT NEWS

A global aircraft engine manufacturer recently announced Delta Air Lines and Airbus Group selected the company’s Geared Turbofan™ (GTF) engine to power Delta’s order of A321neo aircraft.

Pratt & Whitney, a division of United Technologies Corp., also released that the order consists of 100 firm aircraft and includes a 20-year EngineWise™ services agreement. Aircraft deliveries are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2020.

“This is the right transaction at the right time for our customers, our employees, and our shareholders,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “Delta, Airbus, and Pratt & Whitney share the same commitment to safety, efficiency, innovation and continuously improving the customer experience. This order for the state-of-the-art A321neo with Pratt’s PurePower next-generation jet engines reflects our long-term commitment to these values for Delta people and all our constituents.”

“We couldn’t be more proud of our long-standing relationship with Delta, which dates back to the 1930s,” said Pratt & Whitney President Robert Leduc. “Fast forward nearly 90 years, and the GTF engine has revolutionized aviation technology, and will provide Delta with proven performance and environmental benefits. We are honored to power and support Delta’s new fleet of A321neo aircraft well into the future.”

Robert Leduc, President of Pratt & Whitney

Delta currently operates a fleet of more than 350 aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney engines, including the JT8D, PW2000, PW4000 and V2500 engines.

Click this thumbnail for an infographic of the Pratt & Whitney Geared Turbofan™ (GTF) engine:

Delta Air Lines, Airbus Group Select Engine, First Order for 100 A321neo Aircraft Read More »

Heat Treating Projects Part of Pratt & Whitney Expansion

September 20, 2017 / AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT, AEROSPACE HEAT TREAT NEWS, FEATURED NEWS

Aircraft engine maker Pratt & Whitney Canada is expanding its production at facilities in Québec with two recently announced furnace projects, with equipment supplied by local machining manufacturer Pyradia Belfab. The first is a low-temperature conveyor drying oven for steel parts complying with AMS2750 standards, and the second is a bottom-loading type furnace to be used for the stress relief of combustion chambers of P&W Canada aero engines. The latter unit will be a high temperature (2000 F) retort furnace using argon/nitrogen and hydrogen equipped with state of the art batching monitoring/logging capabilities.

The projects figure into an expansion effort by Pratt & Whitney, which includes a recently commissioned new fan blade manufacturing facility at its AutoAir plant in Lansing, Michigan. The new 93,000 square-foot facility adds to an already existing GTF fan blade production line in Lansing and is one of thirty dedicated manufacturing, production or assembly locations across the globe performing work on various parts and components of the GTF engine program.

“We are pleased to be a part of this successful engine program,” said Conor Tracy, general manager, Pratt & Whitney AutoAir. “The expansion of the Lansing plant is an opportunity for our employees to contribute to the future of the company, but it is also an exciting opportunity for Lansing to continue to participate in the advanced manufacturing sector and the economic growth of the region.”

In addition to the manufacturing expansion, Pratt & Whitney has four maintenance and repair operations (MRO) facilities to repair and overhaul GTF engines, and additional facilities will be added moving forward.

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