Pioneering Non-Destructive Inspection Techniques: GE Aerospace and Bruker’s Innovative Partnership for Improved Engine Overhaul

GE Aerospace is set to introduce a new inspection process at its global service centers, using technology commonly used in the art world to detect counterfeit artwork. This cutting-edge process will be the first to be deployed through GE Aerospace’s new STAC station, which is set to open in September. In partnership with Bruker, a leading supplier of analytical tools, GE Aerospace has developed a non-destructive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) inspection device to improve the inspection of metal parts by detecting microstructural variations.

The goal of this new inspection process is to enhance the quality and detail of part inspections while reducing costs for airline customers. By identifying airworthy repaired parts, airlines will have the option to return these parts to the field instead of replacing them entirely with new parts, thereby reducing supply chain constraints and improving overall engine overhaul time.

Nicole Jenkins, chief MRO engineer at GE Aerospace, expressed excitement about the launch of the new STAC facility, which will serve as a hub for scaling and implementing innovative inspection and repair processes. Equipment is already being moved into the facility in preparation for the launch of the first inspection process inspired by techniques from the art world to detect chemical anomalies in metal parts.

Thomas Schuelein, President of Bruker’s Nano Analytics Division, highlighted his company’s commitment to innovation and its collaboration with GE Aerospace in setting a new standard in non-destructive chemical analysis techniques in the aerospace industry. This joint technology development agreement has led to an exciting program that will contribute significantly to improving the quality of aircraft component remanufacturing and pave the way for further progress in this sector.