Future Impact Of Manufacturing Technology And Automation In Pratt & Whitney Canada

There are a number of major trends which are impacting Pratt and Whitney Canada (P&WC) which will require major restructuring of our manufacturing systems, if we are to remain competitive. The paper describes the trends and the potential consequences or opportunities for manufacturing. Pratt and Whitney Canada has responded with a structured 10 year plan, which will implement a company-wide Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) capability. In order to test the strategies and technologies, a Pilot built in Halifax Nova Scotia. This facility will be one of the most advanced large scale flexible manufacturing factories worldwide. Successful implementation of these advanced manufacturing systems requires more than a technological approach. Equally important are the sociological issues which are being applied to develop a new Socio-Technical Design. Lastly the paper reviews the potential impact of these changes on our customers, the airframe builders and the aircraft operators.