“This is one of the most critical and sophisticated components in our jet engines,” says David Joyce, GE Aviation CEO. “They are perfectly shaped aerodynamically, with laser-drilled cooling holes because they operate at extraordinary temperatures. We consider them a work of art.” 

GE has invested $75 million in the new plant. The company expects to hire 300 to 400 workers by the end of the decade.  

Chen and his colleagues are developing laser tools that can not only drill, bull also weld and print. The GRC lab has one of the most powerful lasers in North America. At 20 kilowatts, it is 50,000 times more powerful than a DVD burner. The researchers mounted the laser on a robot and use it to melt metal and develop new welding methods that are more efficient, faster, and more eco-friendly than conventional ways. 

The scientists tap the laser’s high-energy density to penetrate deep and fast into metal parts. The laser welding robot can cover 90 inches per minute. That’s three times faster than conventional welding methods. The system is also easier to set up. “This technology going to touch all aspects of our lives,” says engineer Duncan Pratt. “It will allow us to be smarter about how we use materials and how we manufacture things.”