GKN enhances aeroengine agreement with GE Aerospace

Tier 1 aerostructures supplier GKN Aerospace (Redditch, U.K.) has strengthened its partnership with GE Aerospace (Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S.) through an agreement that includes new technology insertion, fan case production and assembly, and repair of high-volume, complex engines structures. GKN already provides components for several engine series, including the GEnx high-thrust engine program (read “High-speed engine blade manufacturing”).

Technology insertion programs for the GEnx will focus on alternative material solutions, providing a more sustainable manufacturing footprint for several products currently flying. GKN Aerospace will provide component design expertise as well as its latest technologies, to drive the program toward its carbon emissions reduction targets and cost reduction. Upgraded components are expected to go through development, validation and insertion from 2024 to 2030.

Under the agreement, GKN Aerospace will now deliver 100% of GEnx, CF6 and GE90 fan cases, as well as 50% of GE9X fan case assembly for the duration of the program. According to Aviation Week, GKN currently supplies GEnx, GE90, GE9X and CF6 components directly to GE Aerospace.

As part of the partnership, GKN also joins GE’s repair network, supporting the GEnx with specialized repair content with its expertise in structural design-and-make of advanced fabrications to repair high-volume, complex structures across its global repair network.