SOURCE: AFI
In a landmark move for India’s manufacturing sector, PTC Industries’ subsidiary, Aerolloy Technologies, has successfully commissioned the country’s first private sector Vacuum Arc Remelting (VAR) furnace, heralding a new era in domestic production of aerospace-grade titanium alloy ingots. The ceremony took place today in Lucknow, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in critical aerospace materials.
The newly inaugurated facility, sourced from Germany, boasts an impressive annual melting capacity of 1,500 metric tonnes (MT). It is capable of producing titanium alloy ingots with diameters up to 1,000 mm, catering to the stringent requirements of the aerospace industry. This development not only elevates India’s status in the global aerospace manufacturing landscape but also aligns the nation with elite countries like the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom, known for their prowess in high-grade titanium production.
The essence of VAR technology lies in its ability to refine metals under vacuum conditions, which is crucial for achieving a superior metallurgical structure and uniform alloy composition. This process is vital for components used in jet engines and airframes where material integrity directly influences performance and safety.
Jim Collins, the Chief Technology Officer of PTC Industries, highlighted, “This facility not only meets but matches global standards for the production of aerospace-grade titanium alloys. It’s a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation in the aerospace sector.”
Chairman Sachin Agarwal expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, “By commissioning this facility, we eliminate India’s dependency on imports for these critical materials. This is a significant stride towards ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, fostering growth in our aerospace and defense sectors.”
This development is particularly timely as India ramps up its defense and aerospace capabilities. The production of high-quality titanium alloys domestically will bolster the manufacturing of indigenous aircraft and military equipment, reducing reliance on foreign supplies and enhancing national security through self-sufficiency.