How about a loop of nichrome wire? Attach some heat resistant handles and use it like a garrote.

Some handy charts and formulae:
http://www.heatersplus.com/nichrome.htm

Thanks! Not sure about the garrot idea, but the same principle could be used as a basis for a process method.

The link has a lot of good information.

Hmmmm I think for Aerospace work you really should use a certified tool made for the job... maybe not a coil or garrote of nichrome resistance wire!!

John.

At work we use automated Hot knives for cutting fabric straps, similar to seatbelt fabric.

The hot knife tends to melt the end of the fabric and leave a hard end, you are correct stating that the heat from the knife stops the fabric from unweaving but i suspect that you may need a cleaner softer edge.

I would suggest that you look into useing an ultrasonic cutter as it will leave a much cleaner softer edge finish and still seal the woven fabric to prevent unravelling.

The hot knifes that we use were supplied by a scotish company called Ardmel, we have used their products for over 20 years and are very pleased with their reliability. It would definitly be worth contacting them to see if they have a machine capable of carring out the process that you have described automaticly

Check out their website http://www.ardmel-group.co.uk/ for their contact details