Meso-structure and modeling of a new three-dimensional braided tubular material

Abstract

A new three-dimensional braided tubular preform was introduced in this study. The new preform structure can be derived from the representative volume unit which was deduced by the symmetry operations of space group P4. The braiding process of the tubular preform has been discussed. A mathematical model was established to analyze the structural properties of the three-dimensional braided tubular preform. The interrelation of geometrical parameters is analyzed. The fiber volume fraction of the preform was predicted. The new tubular preform was obtained in laboratory to verify the feasibility of the braiding process.