French aerospace company Safran SA and Albany International Corp — a US company that processes advanced textiles and materials — have inaugurated a new facility in Rochester, New Hampshire, to carry out the additive manufacture of RTM (Resin Transfer Moulding) composite parts for aircraft engines.

The first application will be fan cases and fan blades for CFM International’s Leap engine, which is designed to power next-generation single-aisle aircraft (CFM is a 50:50 joint venture owned by Safran and General Electric).

The new plant currently employs 130 people, but staff numbers are expected to reach 400 or 500 when it reaches full capacity. The two companies are also building a similar plant in Commercy, France, to produce the same advanced composite parts for the Leap engine.

Safran CEO Jean-Paul Herteman said: “Our presence in Rochester reflects our commitment to this state and to the USA. Over more than 40 years, Safran has become a formidable presence in the USA through CFM International — our long-term partnership with GE — as well as through organic growth and acquisitions.

Our aim is to continue to expand our position and to contribute to the development of the aerospace and security markets as an American company, ensuring optimum service for our civil and military customers here.”