Composites Horizons LLC (CHI), a division of AIP Aerospace, recently announced the creation of a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) facility adjacent to its polymer matrix composite (PMC) facilities in Covina, Calif. The expansion includes an $11 million investment in new equipment and processes for all four existing facilities. The new facility will house a 4,000-sq-ft clean room with a dedicated ply cutter, laser projection and a team of personnel trained in oxide ceramic production. In addition, the facility also includes a 15,000-sq-ft assembly area and a sintering furnace with 8 sq ft capacity and 2500°F temperature capability. The building will reportedly include two dedicated autoclaves, an additional production sintering furnace, a smaller development furnace, 5-axis CMC machining centers, and quality inspection capability for CMC products, and will house the company’s executive offices.

CHI also announced it has been selected by GE Aviation as a supplier of components for an OX/OX CMC exhaust system for a key business aircraft engine program. This reportedly represents the largest contract in CHI’s 30-year history. High-temperature CMCs can enable manufacturers to reduce engine weight and improve efficiency.

For more information, visit www.chi-covina.com.