| OML / IML |
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| Outside Mold Line / Inside Mold Line | ||
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HITCO CARBON COMPOSITES, INC., is a leading manufacturer of composite aircraft structures. It employs advanced state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies for large composite parts based on advanced pre-preg lay-up techniques and autoclave curing. HITCO also benefits from new machining capabilities at its build-to-purpose manufacturing facility in Gardena, California. |
HITCO supplies Floor Beams, Transverse Beams, and Stringers for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. These parts are fabricated from BMS8-276 carbon/epoxy pre-preg utilizing a combination of hand and automated tape lay-up, hot drape forming, advanced machining, inspection, and NDI techniques. These programs require comprehensive certification to BAC-5578. HITCO is one of only a few suppliers that have successfully completed this certification. HITCO produces inlets and launch rails for the F-22 Raptor using flow production lines, employing just-in-time material deliveries and dedicated highly skilled cross-trained production teams. |
| PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS |
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| • Completed BAC-5578 certification | ||
| • Designed and fabricated all tools | ||
| • Co-cured systems | ||
| • BMI resin systems | ||
| • RTM system | ||
| • Complex curvature | ||
| • Complex titanium hardware
assembly |
| FABRICATION TECHNIQUES |
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| • Combination of hand & automated
lay-up |
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| • Hot drape forming | ||
| • High pressure cure | ||
| • Specialty machining and inspection | ||
| • Through transition NDT-C scan |
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| • Hand lay-up | ||
| • RVB-reusable vacuum bag | ||
| • De-bulk | ||
| • Multi-cure processes | ||
| • Multiple close tolerance hole drilling
and fastener installation |
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