US aerospace manufacturer Pratt & Whitney has revealed plans to open a new ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) research and development (R&D) facility in Carlsbad, California.

CMCs are lighter and resistant to higher temperatures when compared with other traditional materials used in a jet engine’s hot section. This capability helps improve thermal efficiency for gas turbine engines.

Pratt & Whitney CMCs senior director Meggan Harris said: “Pratt & Whitney views CMCs as an enabling technology.

“This material will allow us to offer key capabilities for both our commercial and military customers, as their needs for ever-better fuel efficiency over longer flight times continue to evolve.”

Addition of the new 60,000ft² R&D facility will see several job opportunities in the region. Pratt & Whitney will use the facility for design, development and production of CMCs for aerospace applications.

The use of CMCs will allow Pratt & Whitney’s next-generation commercial and military engines to offer increased range and fuel efficiency, as well as reduced emissions.

Pratt & Whitney Carlsbad facility general manager Andy Lazur said: “We’re excited to establish a dedicated team of engineers and technicians working on the next generation of this potentially disruptive technology in a collaborative space.

“This new facility is a testament to Pratt & Whitney’s commitment to innovation. This novel material technology enables us to provide dependable engines with enhanced performance to our customers.”

Earlier this week, Pratt & Whitney selected Helicopter Services Company (HSC) in Moscow, Russia, to support Kazan Ansat PW207K civil helicopter engine customers.

As a designated maintenance facility, HSC will provide services such as engine maintenance training, line maintenance and mobile repair team (MRT).