Pratt & Whitney Deploys BARB Robot for Jet Engine Bearing Assembly
Pratt & Whitney has introduced a new robotic laborer called BARB (Bearing Automation Robotic Builder) at its Middletown, Connecticut jet engine assembly plant. The robot, part of a $20 million automation investment, assembles #2, #5, and #6 bearings for the commercial 1100G geared turbofan engine. BARB arrived in late 2024 but only came online in spring 2025 after extensive testing, including overcoming vision system challenges with shiny new parts. The robot integrates with the company's meticulous record-keeping process, with mechanics signing off on parts provided to and received from the machine. Pratt & Whitney reports an 80% reduction in 'touch time' for the bearing sub-assembly process. The company views BARB as a modest first step toward broader automation in both civilian and military engine assembly, which has traditionally been highly human-dependent due to exacting tolerances and safety requirements.
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