Composites Horizons (CHI), a division of AIP Aerospace in the US, has created a Ceramic Matrix Composite facility adjacent to its existing Polymer Matrix Composite facilities in Covina, CA, to support a contract with GE Aviation, the largest in the company's 30-year history.
The 35,000ft2 building will be dedicated to the manufacture of sophisticated oxide ceramic matrix composites (OX/OX CMCs), which enable aircraft manufacturers to reduce engine weight and improve efficiency.
Included with CHI’s expansion is a US$11m investment in new equipment and processes for all four of the company's facilities.
The new Ceramic Matrix Composite facility will house a 4,000ft2 cleanroom with a dedicated ply cutter, laser projection and a team of personnel trained in oxide ceramic production. It will also include a 15,000ft2 assembly area and a sintering furnace with 8ft3 capacity and 2500°F temperature capability. Ultimately, the building will include two dedicated autoclaves, an additional production sintering furnace, a smaller development furnace, 5-axis CMC machining centres, quality inspection capability for CMC products, and house the company’s executive offices.
Also included in the expansion are three 5 axis CMC mills to be added to current machining capabilities and a new high temperature 12x25ft autoclave installed adjacent to its current 10x20ft 800°F autoclave in the high temperature Polymer Matrix Composite lay-up building.