Turbine Wheels & Nozzles
Overview
Focus:
Total Cost Of OwnershipIndustry:
Advanced Aerospace Investment CastingsDimensions (mm):
VariousWeight (g):
VariousVacuum Cast
X-Ray Tested
End-To-End Process
Total Cost of Ownership
Finishing
MAR-M 247
The turbine wheel and nozzle are critical components within the propulsion systems of small turbojet engines used in the aerospace sector. Operating in demanding environments, these components must meet exceptionally high standards for material integrity, dimensional accuracy, and functional reliability. Their role within the engine places stringent requirements on every stage of the manufacturing process, from casting through to final delivery.
Manufacturing Processes
The turbine wheels are produced using vacuum investment casting, a process that is essential due to the properties of the selected superalloy, MAR-M247. This nickel-based superalloy cannot be cast under normal atmospheric conditions. Vacuum casting, therefore, provides a controlled environment that preserves the metallurgical integrity of the material and ensures consistent mechanical performance.
Following casting, the turbine wheels undergo further precision machining in-house. This enables us to supply complete sub-assemblies when required, rather than cast components alone. Machining processes are designed to achieve tight tolerances and surface finishes in line with the functional and performance demands of aerospace propulsion systems. Components are also dynamically balanced on site, allowing customers to receive a fully finished and ready-to-integrate assembly from a single supplier. Alternatively, if a customer prefers to manage downstream operations independently, the parts can also be supplied directly after casting.
Optimised Production Line
To support the efficient production of turbine wheels, a robotic-supported, two-chamber vacuum casting production line has been installed. This setup is specifically engineered to ensure process stability, repeatability, and consistent quality for complex aerospace components.
The nozzle components are manufactured on a fully automated casting line designed for open-atmosphere casting, supported by two cooperating robots. This approach ensures repeatable quality while maintaining high throughput.
For machining and assembly, a dedicated production line has been established to address the specific technical and logistical requirements of these parts. Equipment is arranged in the exact sequence of operations, minimising unnecessary internal transport and optimising material flow. This layout improves efficiency, reduces handling risks, and enhances overall process reliability.
Assembly & Delivery
Due to their precise surface finishes and strict tolerance requirements, these components are particularly sensitive to damage during handling and transport. To mitigate this risk, a bespoke protective packaging solution has been developed to safeguard parts throughout the delivery process. This approach ensures component integrity from our facility to the customer’s site, supporting seamless integration into the final application.
Impact
The complexity of the turbine wheels and nozzles, combined with their demanding aerospace operating conditions, means that investment casting is the only viable production method. Both the casting process and the subsequent machining and assembly operations are technically challenging and require a high level of process control and expertise.
Historically, Texmo Blank supplied only the cast components, with machining and assembly carried out by external suppliers. We have now successfully consolidated the entire value chain under one roof. This integrated approach removes the need for customers to manage multiple suppliers and interfaces.
By offering a single-source solution, we improve communication across all stages of production, reduce logistical complexity, and lower total cost of ownership through reduced transportation, improved process efficiency, and shorter lead times.
Sustainability & Development
By consolidating casting, machining, and assembly in-house, the requirement for multiple suppliers and associated logistics is significantly reduced. This lowers the environmental impact of production by minimising transport and handling. Sustainability is further enhanced by the recycling of scrap material generated at any stage of the manufacturing process.
Continuous improvement is a core focus of our operations. We actively work to optimise energy consumption, reduce cycle times, and further refine our manufacturing processes, ensuring that our production remains efficient, responsible, and aligned with the evolving requirements of the aerospace industry.
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The turbine wheel and nozzle are critical components within the propulsion systems of small turbojet engines used in the aerospace sector. Operating in demanding environments, these components must meet exceptionally high standards for material integrity, dimensional accuracy, and functional reliability. Their role within the engine places stringent requirements on every stage of the manufacturing process, from casting through to final delivery.