Alcoa Power and Propulsion has announced plans to expand coating production capacities at its facility in Whitehall, Michigan, US, with an investment of $16.7m.

The expansion will allow the company to serve the increasing demand for aircraft engine parts.

As part of the project, the company will install an electron beam physical vapour deposition machine, which will combine the bond and top coat processes to enable faster production.

"The combination of advanced coatings and internal cooling schemes make it possible for investment cast airfoils to operate in an environment that reaches temperatures much greater than the airfoils’ melting point."

Work on the expansion is scheduled to begin this month with plans to start first production in 2016. The project will create 25 new full-time jobs.

Alcoa Power and Propulsion president Mike Pepper said: "This expansion will enable us to continue providing our high level of service as we meet growing demands for our high-tech, Thermatech-coated parts that enable enhanced fuel efficiency."

The Michigan Economic Development has granted $285,000 to Alcoa for the expansion.

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At Thermatech plant in Whitehall, Alcoa produces thermal coated parts, which allow engines to operate at higher temperatures.

The coatings are said to protect jet engine parts against oxidation and corrosion as well as extend their operating life.

Alcoa said: "The combination of advanced coatings and internal cooling schemes make it possible for investment cast airfoils to operate in an environment that reaches temperatures much greater than the airfoils’ melting point."

Alcoa’s aerospace business reported revenues of $4bn in 2013.

The company estimates that the demand for commercial jets will grow at compounded annual rate of 7% until 2019.

Defence Technology