Weaving: Its Role with Advanced Composite Materials

The technological advances made in the weaving of advanced materials show true promise for the automotive, aerospace and other industries. The capability to design and fabricate a fabric matching unique specifications exist today. Engineers have the liberty of specifying fiber placement and combinations unheard of before. The understanding of weaving can provide the Engineer with creative options during the design and fabrication of composite parts. Their work is made easier with a basic understanding.

The ART of weaving has been with civilization since before the pharoahs of Egypt. The weaving of advanced composite materials represents only a second of time in comparison. That fact is made evident by the lack of written material delineating processes and methods by which advanced materials are woven into end products.

I will attempt to introduce, explain and demonstrate the developing science and art of weaving with advanced composite materials. I will discuss general weaving terminology, weaving and, lastly, variations as they relate to specific applications.