GE Aviation expands in Delaware to build engine components

$27 million ‘Lean Lab’ will prove out manufacturing techniques

By Bob Vavra, Content Manager, CFE Media May 23, 2013

GE Aviation officials announced Tuesday a $27 million expansion of its Newark, Del. manufacturing plant to develop a so-called “Lean Lab” concept to help expand its production of ceramic matrix composites (CMC) for aviation.

The lab will allow engineering and manufacturing to collaborate on design and production of the CMC components. The proving out of these concepts will take place before the process is exported to other GE facilities around the world.

"This investment is a testament to GE’s commitment to this advanced technology. The Newark team will play a vital role in the next-generation of aircraft engines, and we’re proud to be a part of it," said Jeff Wessels, plant leader at Newark, in a press release.

The CMC components are part of GE Aviation’s plans with airplane manufacturers for the next generation of jet engines that GE is developing with French manufacturer Snecma. The new LEAP engine will be part of Airbus, Boeing and COMEC aircraft in 2016. Iot also will be part of the GE9X engine that will be used in the new Boeing 777X airplanes.

“GE Aviation hits many of the targets that we are aiming for, including global reach, new economy jobs and the growth of companies that specialize in products and services at the forefront of innovation,” Delaware Gov. Jack Markell said in a press release. “This expansion at GE Aviation’s Newark plant, and its creation of well-paying jobs, will strengthen our state and local economy.”

“GE Aviation’s commitment to Delaware shows that the company values our talented first-class workforce,” said Delaware U.S. Senator Tom Carper. “The Lean Lab concept shows that through greater communication and collaboration, the likely result is innovation.”