NASA 4750 Manual

A SERVICE OF

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ANALYTICAL METHODS FOR TEXTILE COMPOSITES

2-32

A weaving pattern does not need to be constant over the entire breadth or length of a

fabric. By programming the loom, it is possible to have segments of a fabric that are not

locked through the thickness along a specified plane. After weaving, the flat fabric may be

unfolded to create a branched structure (Fig 2-24). This approach can be used to fabricate

crossing stiffeners with continuous reinforcements passing through the intersection. The

final yarn paths in the intersection are difficult to predict.

Cut

Planes without

Z–Reinforcement

Z-Reinforcement Through

3 Sublaminates

Continuous

Crossing Fibers

Figure 2-24. Use of 3D weaving to create a branched structure.

Figure 2-25 illustrates the use of weaving technology to produce an integral skin and

stiffener assembly. The skin contains orthogonal warp and weft, as well as ±45° bias

Figure 2-25. An integrally woven skin/stiffener preform. (Courtesy of Techniweave Inc.)