UK aero-engine MRO specialist Magnetic Engines has expanded its CFM56 repair capabilities by introducing in-house rotor balancing, according to Aviation Business News, enabling the company to undertake a broader range of repairs and module rebuilds while reducing reliance on external subcontractors.

The investment includes both vertical and horizontal balancing machines, covering blades, discs and spools across the CFM56 engine family. It also allows the company to offer low-pressure turbine Major Module rebuilds for both third-party customers and its own engine assets, creating a new commercial revenue stream.

Previously, Magnetic Engines relied on partner facilities to balance assembled engine rotors, adding time and complexity to repair programmes. The company said this arrangement prevented it from undertaking certain workscopes, including the multi-step balancing process required for low-pressure turbine Major Module assembly.

The new capability supports all four major CFM56 rotor assemblies: the low-pressure compressor, high-pressure compressor, high-pressure turbine and low-pressure turbine. Magnetic Engines can now carry out full overhaul and rebuild of the low-pressure turbine Major Module, overhaul and rebuild of the Fan and Booster Shop Module, and life-limited parts replacement on high-pressure compressor and high-pressure turbine rotors.

Business development manager Victoria Goodenough said: "This investment allows us to offer a broader range of repairs while keeping more of the process under our own control. For customers, that means fewer external interfaces, shorter turnaround times and access to workscopes that were previously unavailable through Magnetic Engines. It is another important step in strengthening our position as a comprehensive CFM56 support provider."

The in-house capability also complements Magnetic Engines' existing Core Performance Restoration services, which can now include life-limited parts replacement as part of the same workscope.

Rotor balancing is required following performance restoration work or the replacement of life-limited parts to ensure rotating engine modules operate without excessive vibration, making the capability a fundamental requirement for comprehensive engine overhaul and module rebuild services.

Looking ahead, Magnetic Engines plans to extend its balancing capability to LEAP engines as its support programme for that engine type continues to expand.