C6 Aircraft Engine Blade – Automated Super-Polish

GE Aviation, headquartered in the Cincinnati, Ohio region, engaged Bel Air Finishing to develop an automated super-polish process for forged stainless steel and Inconel C6 aircraft engine blades. The objective was to produce an ultra-smooth surface finish to help improve aerodynamic efficiency and support fuel-efficient performance in a new generation of jet engines.

GE Aviation partnered with Bel Air Finishing on a year-long process development program to evaluate automated polishing methods for C6 aircraft engine blades. Bel Air was one of only three companies worldwide selected to participate, developing and testing five different finishing methods before presenting multiple process options for GE to select based on its manufacturing requirements.

The selected process produced an ultra-smooth, consistent blade surface while providing the repeatability required for aerospace production. This project reflects Bel Air’s approach to process development—evaluating multiple solutions, refining each process, and helping customers select the right process for their application.

If you are unsure what equipment and media you require to achieve your desired surface finish, then send us your part, and we will evaluate it and provide you with a metrology report.