New Columbus Forge Isothermal Press Key to Supporting Pratt & Whitney’s Engine Production Ramp

Pratt & Whitney’s Columbus Forge Disks business recently unveiled its new isothermal vacuum forge press, known as the “C5” press, which is expected to significantly increase isothermal forging output. The new press will be used to manufacture turbine disks and compressor rotors for Pratt & Whitney engines and is critical to supporting the company’s ramp in engine production. Pratt & Whitney is a division of United Technologies Corp.

“Installing the C5 press will significantly increase our ability to meet customers’ needs, which is critical during our historic engine production ramp,” said Kevin Carillon, general manager, Columbus Forge Disks. “The press will provide forgings across many of our engine programs, from commercial to military, as well as general and business aviation.”

In 2017, Pratt & Whitney announced a $386 million investment in its Columbus business. The investment has gone toward the purchase of automated machinery and equipment upgrades like the new press as well as the construction of new buildings on the property. The Columbus business is comprised of Columbus Forge Disks and Columbus Forge Blades, which produce disks, seals, rings, hub and blade forgings for the full range of Pratt & Whitney engines, and the Columbus Engine Center, which maintains Pratt & Whitney GTF™, PW2000, F117, and F100 engines.