Additive manufacturing will increase delivery speed and improve part durability
PARIS, June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE:RTX) business, has successfully completed a series of tests on its 3D printed TJ150 turbine wheel. Positive test results mark a significant step forward in Pratt & Whitney's additive manufacturing capabilities as the turbine wheel is one of the first rotating parts to be 3D printed.
The TJ150 is a compact, high-performance turbojet engine that can be manufactured quickly and has proven reliability. With 150-pounds of thrust, it is designed to power a variety of autonomous systems and weapons.
"Today we're fielding and flying static engine parts. Rotating engine components, especially for expendable class applications, is the next step," said Chris Hugill, executive director of Pratt & Whitney GATORWORKS. "Our testing confirms we're on track with the engine performing at full operating speeds and temperatures and meeting expected life duration. This technology is transforming how we design, develop and deliver capabilities faster."
Pratt & Whitney GATORWORKS was the driving force behind the initial TJ150 redesign, drawing on close collaboration between its technical and manufacturing teams and the RTX Technology Research Center. Leveraging a process called unitization, engineers decreased core module part count from over 50 to just a handful, significantly reducing production time and cost. Using in-house capability, they designed and tested the engine within eight months. This latest round of testing marks a significant step moving from static structures to rotating hardware.
About Pratt & Whitney
Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units for military, commercial and civil aviation customers. Since 1925, our engineers have pioneered the development of revolutionary aircraft propulsion technologies, and today we support more than 90,000 in-service engines through our global network of maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities.
About RTX
RTX is the world's largest aerospace and defense company. With more than 185,000 global employees, we push the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. Through industry-leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon – we are advancing aviation, engineering integrated defense systems for operational success, and developing next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges. The company, with 2024 sales of more than $80 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.
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SOURCE RTX