A new three-dimensional braiding method for net shape fabrication of a complex perform with rounding chamfer

Abstract

This paper presents a new three-dimensional method to braid a net-shape preform with rounding chamfer. This new method is mainly based on the 4-step method. It needs six steps to finish one cycle. For the traditional braiding method it needs eight steps to form a L- shape preform. Due to the different braiding processes referred above the yarn topology is different. After the preforms are impregnated with matrix, the interior unit cells between the two kinds of composite referred above are compared. The interior unit cell of the composite with rounding chamfer consists of four yarns while the other contains five yarns. The corner of the L-shape composite is cut to form the same dimensional rounding chamfer. The specimen of the two kinds of composites is tested. The flexural experiment shows that composite manufactured by the new method performs better due to the structural integrity.