Smiths upgrades US manufacturing facility with chemical milling

The process is key to weight reduction and structural strength in complex fabricated engine components. Chemical milling removes metal from selected or entire areas. A chemical resistant mask is applied to fabricated assemblies with complex patterns cut using a multi-axis laser scribing unit. Immersion in PLC-controlled tanks removes material from the components. The process yields significant weight reduction and superior structural performance. In addition to the new chem-mill process, the expansion will help accommodate the growing demand from Smiths' customers for precision fabricated turbine engine components for all major military and civil aircraft and engine manufacturers. Smiths Aerospace, part of Smiths Group, is a transatlantic aerospace systems and equipment company, having more than 10,000 employees and generating $2 billion revenues globally. The company holds key positions in the supply chains of all major military and civil aircraft and engine manufacturers.