GE Aviation, Praxair open jet engine coatings facility

GE Aviation and Praxair Inc. have opened a new facility for their PG Technologies business, which specializes in advanced coatings that enable jet engines to withstand higher temperatures and stresses. PG Technologies is a joint venture between Praxair Surface Technologies Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of industrial gas company Praxair Inc. and GE Aviation that focuses on the development, support, and application of specialized coatings tailored for GE Aviation's current and future engine platforms. PG Technologies is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, with coating operations in Ellisville, Mississippi, and the Republic of Singapore.

The 300,000ft² facility is expected to employ at least 250 people to meet demand for GE’s latest generation of jet engines, including the GE9X and the CFM LEAP, a 50/50 joint venture between GE Aviation and SAFRAN of France.

"We are pleased to open a world-class coatings facility in Ellisville that will house the next generation of coating technologies and applications for the aviation industry," said Praxair Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Steve Angel. "PG Technologies is a direct result of the longstanding and highly successful commercial relationship we have enjoyed with GE for over 20 years and we look forward to driving steady growth in the business while supporting GE Aviation's needs."

"We are excited to enter this next phase of our strategic plan," said Derek Hileman, managing director, PG Technologies.

Tony Aiello, vice president and general manager, global supply chain, GE Aviation, said, "The engine components delivered from this plant will be in service for decades to come with our more than 400 airline customers all around the world."