RTX's Pratt & Whitney tests 3D printed rotating part for its TJ150 engine

Rhea-AI Summary

RTX's Pratt & Whitney has achieved a milestone in additive manufacturing by successfully testing a 3D printed turbine wheel for its TJ150 turbojet engine. This breakthrough represents one of the first rotating parts to be 3D printed for engine applications. The TJ150, a compact 150-pound thrust engine designed for autonomous systems and weapons, underwent successful tests at full operating speeds and temperatures, meeting expected life duration requirements. Through a process called unitization, Pratt & Whitney GATORWORKS collaborated with RTX Technology Research Center to reduce the engine's core module parts from over 50 to just a few components, significantly improving production efficiency. The entire design and testing process was completed within eight months using in-house capabilities.

Positive

• Successfully tested 3D printed rotating turbine wheel, marking a significant technological advancement
• Reduced core module parts from over 50 to just a few components through unitization process
• Completed design and testing within 8 months using in-house capabilities
• Technology enables faster manufacturing and improved part durability

Negative

• None.

Additive manufacturing will increase delivery speed and improve part durability

PARIS, June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, has successfully completed a series of tests on its 3D printed TJ150 turbine wheel. Positive test results mark a significant step forward in Pratt & Whitney's additive manufacturing capabilities as the turbine wheel is one of the first rotating parts to be 3D printed.

The TJ150 is a compact, high-performance turbojet engine that can be manufactured quickly and has proven reliability. With 150-pounds of thrust, it is designed to power a variety of autonomous systems and weapons.

"Today we're fielding and flying static engine parts. Rotating engine components, especially for expendable class applications, is the next step," said Chris Hugill, executive director of Pratt & Whitney GATORWORKS. "Our testing confirms we're on track with the engine performing at full operating speeds and temperatures and meeting expected life duration. This technology is transforming how we design, develop and deliver capabilities faster."

Pratt & Whitney GATORWORKS was the driving force behind the initial TJ150 redesign, drawing on close collaboration between its technical and manufacturing teams and the RTX Technology Research Center. Leveraging a process called unitization, engineers decreased core module part count from over 50 to just a handful, significantly reducing production time and cost. Using in-house capability, they designed and tested the engine within eight months. This latest round of testing marks a significant step moving from static structures to rotating hardware.

About Pratt & Whitney 
Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines and auxiliary power units for military, commercial and civil aviation customers. Since 1925, our engineers have pioneered the development of revolutionary aircraft propulsion technologies, and today we support more than 90,000 in-service engines through our global network of maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities.

About RTX
RTX is the world's largest aerospace and defense company. With more than 185,000 global employees, we push the limits of technology and science to redefine how we connect and protect our world. Through industry-leading businesses – Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon – we are advancing aviation, engineering integrated defense systems for operational success, and developing next-generation technology solutions and manufacturing to help global customers address their most critical challenges. The company, with 2024 sales of more than $80 billion, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia.

For questions or to schedule an interview, please contact corporatepr@rtx.com. 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rtxs-pratt--whitney-tests-3d-printed-rotating-part-for-its-tj150-engine-302480599.html

SOURCE RTX

FAQ

What breakthrough did RTX's Pratt & Whitney achieve with 3D printing?

Pratt & Whitney successfully tested a 3D printed turbine wheel for its TJ150 engine, one of the first rotating parts to be 3D printed for engine applications

How many pounds of thrust does the RTX TJ150 engine produce?

The TJ150 engine produces 150 pounds of thrust

How did RTX reduce manufacturing complexity in the TJ150 engine?

Through a process called unitization, they reduced the core module parts from over 50 to just a handful of components

How long did it take RTX to design and test the new TJ150 engine?

The engine was designed and tested within eight months using in-house capabilities

What applications is the RTX TJ150 engine designed for?

The TJ150 is designed to power autonomous systems and weapons