The Truth About United Airlines’ Exploding Jet Engine

Pratt and Whitney use thermal acoustic imaging to inspect the turbofan blades.

That exploding Boeing 777 engine that rained parts all over a Denver suburb last month looked dramatic. The fix involves a unique, proprietary inspection system that uses heat generated by soundwaves to detect cracks not visible with surface inspection techniques.

In each episode of End of the Line, manufacturing veteran Jim Anderton expresses his compelling and unique opinions about the state of the manufacturing sector. He shares his thoughts and insights to help engineering and manufacturing professionals navigate through the challenges of world events, the blending old with new technologies, evolving processes, gaps in skilled labour, in an effort to help maximize productivity of their daily operations.

Access all episodes of End of the Line on Engineering TV along with all of our other series.

Written by

James Anderton

Jim Anderton is the Director of Content for ENGINEERING.com. Mr. Anderton was formerly editor of Canadian Metalworking Magazine and has contributed to a wide range of print and on-line publications, including Design Engineering, Canadian Plastics, Service Station and Garage Management, Autovision, and the National Post. He also brings prior industry experience in quality and part design for a Tier One automotive supplier.