A few days ago, Pratt & Whitney opened a new ceramic-matrix composite R&D plant in Carlsbad, California.
The new factory covers an area of approximately 60,000 square feet (5574 square meters) and is dedicated to the development, application and small-batch production of ceramic matrix composite materials in the aerospace field.
Ceramic matrix composites have the advantages of light weight and high temperature resistance. Engine parts made of ceramic matrix composite materials weigh only one-third of traditional metal parts, and their temperature-bearing capacity is higher than that of the most advanced superalloy parts. This significantly improves fuel efficiency and reduces carbon emission.
Pratt & Whitney's vice president of advancement and materials technology said: "The new factory is being used for innovative research to ensure that the company can continue to carry out various businesses in the forefront of aviation technology in the next few decades."