Pictured is the large stitching machine installed in the Resin Transfer Molding Unit at LaRC. This equipment is fully numerically controlled, with the stitching pattern for each job executed through a pre-written computer program. Mr. Richard Chattin is shown at the controls of the operator station. The machine stitches pre-forms that are subsequently processed into finished advanced composite parts. Fibers used in this pre-form manufacturing process commonly include carbon, kevlar, and fiberglass. There is the capability to stitch material 75 inches long by 50 inches wide, with thicknesses that may exceed 1.5 inches.
