# The engine parts that ‘fight the laws of the universe’

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/the-engine-parts-that-fight-the-laws-of-the-universe/
- Published: 2026-11-06T00:06:06+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-06T00:18:55+00:00
- Original publisher: BBC Technology (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwe9lmp1pyyxo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss
- Topics: Business, Technology

## Key points

- Single crystal blades endure extreme heat and stress.
- Only a few firms can make them.
- GE’s $11.75bn deal aims to secure supply.

## Summary

Aircraft turbine blades can withstand intense heat and mechanical stress because they are cast as single crystals, a difficult process mastered by only a few companies. The technology matters because these blades are critical engine components, and control of their supply has become a strategic concern for manufacturers.

To make a blade, molten alloy is cooled gradually so one crystal grows through the mould; a spiral feature called a pigtail helps it take hold and is removed afterwards. Rolls-Royce uses the blades in engines for the Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 787, and plans to invest more than £19m in its Rotherham facility. GE Aerospace announced a $11.75bn acquisition of its blade supplier, while China is seeking to match Western production capabilities.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.