The US Tinker Air Force Base has selected GKN Aerospace Chem-tronics to deliver 147 turbine nozzle support structures for the Pratt & Whitney F-100 series engine.
The F-100 engines will power US Air Force (USAF) F-15 and F-16 aircraft.
Under this $10m contract, the manufacturing of the titanium alloy structures will be carried out by GKN Aerospace Chem-tronics operation in El Cajon, California.
The company’s El Cajon facility has also delivered similar products for Tinker Air Force Base earlier.
GKN Aerospace Chem-tronics vice-president and general manager Darren Levack said: "We have been manufacturing these vital structures for the F-100 engine since 2009, using the fabrication skills that our site is renowned for.
"Our aim is to continue to provide the high levels of expertise that will allow us to fulfil future spares requirements for all F-15 and F-16 operators."
The GKN’s solution will support the aft nozzle exit section in the rear of the engine on all Pratt & Whitney F-100 series engines.
During the production of support structures, hot-forming will be used to develop the shell body skins while flanges are welded through spot welding and additional items attached with fasteners.
The delivery of the products is expected to start this year and scheduled to be completed by December 2017.
GKN Aerospace is also responsible to manufacture the forward, rear and augmentor fan cases for the F-100 engine.
It additionally produces several similar engine case products for the F-119 and F-135 engines.
Image: US Air Forces’ F-15C during Operation Noble Eagle patrol. Photo: courtesy of US Air Force photo /Staff Sgt Samuel Rogers.
