Three-dimensional braiding for composites: A review

Abstract

The aim of this study is to review three-dimensional (3D) braided fabrics and, in particular, to provide a critical review of the development of 3D braided preform structures and techniques. 3D braided preforms are classified based on various parameters depending on the yarn sets, yarn orientation and intertwining, micro-meso unit cells and macro geometry. Biaxial and triaxial two-dimensional (2D) braided fabrics have been widely used as simple- and complex-shaped structural composite parts in various technical areas. However, 2D braided fabric has size and thickness limitations. 3D braided fabrics have multiple layers and no delamination due to intertwine-type out-of-plane interlacement. However, the 3D braided fabrics have low transverse properties and they also have size and thickness limitations. On the other hand, various unit cell base models on 3D braiding were developed to analyze the properties of 3D braided structures. Most of the unit cell base models include micromechanics and numerical techniques. Multiaxis 3D braided fabrics have multiple layers and no delamination. The in-plane properties of multiaxis 3D braided fabrics may be enhanced due to the ±bias yarn layers. However, the multiaxis 3D braiding technique is at an early stage of development and needs to be fully automated.

The tensile behaviour of biaxial and triaxial braided fabrics

“…In this process a braiding loom deposits continuous, intertwined fibre tows to create a desired reinforcing braid architecture [6] and offers several advantages like control over the fibre deposition angle and fast fibre deposition rate [7][8][9][10][11][12][13]. At a minimal level, a braid (denoted biaxial braid) is constituted with two groups of yarns intertwined.…”

Square and other types of form braiding

“…It is not clear how the machinery would be designed to switch carriers between tracks at the connection points where one track is connected to two, but this might possibly be achieved using switch cams. Figure 12.36 shows an idea for interlacing yarns on several tracks to braid a solid structure for composites (Brookstein, 1991;Bilisik, 2013). This method could be applied for linear and for radial structures, as shown in the pictures in the patent Temple (1984) (Fig.…”

“…They are not common because of their very large dimensions and (Brookstein, 1991;Bilisik, 2013). very limited variety of products.…”

In‐plane response of para‐aramid/phenolic nanostitched and nanoprepreg 3D composites under tensile loading

“…However, they suffer delamination. To develop a delamination free structure, Z‐directional preforms were developed by three dimensional (3D) weaving , 3D braiding , and stitching which are sewing, tufting, or embroidery . Recently, nanosphere, single wall, or multiwall tubes were employed in fiber composites by dispersing the nano in the resin using various techniques such as shear mixing, ultrasonication, and transfer‐printing .…”