CTAL opens £multi-million facility to develop efficient, lightweight aero-engine technology

CTAL, a joint venture between Rolls-Royce and GKN Aerospace, opened a facility that will develop new composite aero engine components. The facility has been developed by CTAL to pilot pioneering manufacturing processes for aero-engine fan blades and fan-cases made of composite materials. Lighter, but as strong as traditional metal components, composite blades and cases could improve aero-engine performance and reduce their environmental impact by reducing the overall weight of the engine. CTAL’s £14.8m facility will employ 70 highly skilled engineers on the Isle of Wight and has been supported with £7.4m in funding from the UK Government.