Engines
Pratt Sharpens Focus on Supply Chain for GTF Ramp-Up
Places renewed emphasis on long-term supplier agreements
A PW1100G hangs on the new horizontal assembly line in Middletown, Connecticut. (Photo: Pratt & Whitney)
A PW1100G hangs on the new horizontal assembly line in Middletown, Connecticut. (Photo: Pratt & Whitney)

Pratt & Whitney is working hard to ensure optimum production efficiency for its PW1000G family of “geared turbofans” through a mixture of new technology and more mutually beneficial relationships with key suppliers. Since completing installation of a new horizontal build process at its Middletown, Connecticut plant in March, the engine maker has achieved a 30- to 40-percent reduction in the time it takes to assemble a PW1100G, which will power the new Airbus A320neo narrowbody.