SECO/WARWICK, a global manufacturer of metal heat treatment and metallurgy solutions, has signed a new contract with a leading Chinese company from the advanced aviation technology sector. The partner is one of the global leaders in the production of engine components and structural parts for international aircraft manufacturers. The order includes two devices – a Vector vacuum furnace and a JetCaster furnace for Directionally Solidified (DS) and Single Crystal (SC) castings. These devices will be used to produce highly advanced components used in aircraft engines.
High-flying technology
The VIM JetCaster furnace with a capacity of 25 kg enables users to melt nickel and cobalt alloys at temperatures up to 1700℃, enabling the production of directional and single crystal castings. This solution meets the highest global standards, and the DGCC (Developed Gas Cooling Casting) technology guarantees process repeatability and high casting quality.
“The device ensures a low percentage of casting defects, both macro and microstructural, as well as a significant reduction of the directional solidification casting process compared to the classical process due to increased mold withdrawal speeds. JetCaster was designed specifically for the aviation, energy, and defense industries. Another partner from Asia specializing in the aviation industry confirms that JetCaster has its permanent place in the machine parks producing components for the aviation sector,” said Sławomir Woźniak, CEO of SECO/WARWICK Group.
The latest jet engines use advanced blades cast using single crystal technology. The user-friendly control system ensures precise processes: casting, temperature control, as well as comprehensive data collection. SECO/WARWICK furnaces are equipped with intuitive control systems that guarantee the repeatability and unparalleled throughput so crucial for the aviation industry.
Aviation needs vacuum furnaces
The second device ordered by the Chinese partner is the Vector vacuum furnace, designed for aging and solution heat treatment processes. It achieves a maximum temperature of 1400℃ with a uniformity of ±5℃ and can handle components with a total mass of up to 800 kg. Thanks to a high level of vacuum (up to 10⁻³ Pa), processes take place without intergranular oxidation, resulting in excellent surface quality of the components.
Short delivery times and brand trust
A key factor in choosing SECO/WARWICK was the competitive delivery time, which was made possible by maintaining an inventory of crucial imported components.
“Cooperation with a leader in the Chinese aviation industry is a great distinction for us and confirmation that our solutions meet the highest global standards. Moreover, the fact that the client produces for such renowned brands serves as a strong reference for us on international markets. The fact that SECO/WARWICK is a global brand with manufacturing plants on three continents means we can better adapt our offer to market needs,” says Liu Yedong, Managing Director of SECO/WARWICK China.
Solutions that impact flight safety
The new SECO/WARWICK devices will be used to manufacture key aircraft engine components responsible for flight safety worldwide. Thanks to modern technology, energy efficiency and low process gas emissions, SECO/WARWICK solutions also meet the needs of a sustainable industry.
