- Pratt & Whitney tests 3D printed turbine wheel for TJ150 engine, marking a first in engine applications.
- The TJ150 engine's core module parts reduced from over 50 to a few, enhancing production efficiency.
- Design and testing completed in just eight months using in-house capabilities.
Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX (RTX, Financial), has successfully tested a 3D printed turbine wheel for its TJ150 turbojet engine, a notable advancement in additive manufacturing. This innovation marks one of the earliest instances of 3D printing being utilized for rotating engine parts. The TJ150, a compact 150-pound thrust engine, was designed for various autonomous systems and defense applications. It has proven its reliability by passing tests at full operating speeds and temperatures, meeting expected life duration requirements.
This engineering feat was achieved through a collaborative effort by Pratt & Whitney GATORWORKS and the RTX Technology Research Center, employing a process known as unitization. This process significantly reduced the engine's core module parts from over 50 to just a handful, thereby improving production efficiency and reducing manufacturing complexity. Impressively, the design and testing were completed within an eight-month timeframe utilizing entirely in-house resources.
"Today's successful testing of the 3D printed turbine wheel indicates that we are on the right path to enhancing our capabilities," said Chris Hugill, Executive Director of Pratt & Whitney GATORWORKS. "Our approach is revolutionizing how we design, develop, and deliver capabilities faster, moving from static structures to rotating hardware." This development not only reduces costs but also accelerates manufacturing timelines, positioning Pratt & Whitney at the forefront of technological advancements in aerospace propulsion.
