Journal Published Online: 01 June 1988
Volume 10, Issue 2

Braided to Net Section Graphite/Epoxy Composite Shapes

CODEN: JCTRER

Abstract

The fabrication of braided-to-net-shape graphite/epoxy composites has been demonstrated for channel, cruciform, Tee, and hat section geometries. Resin impregnation, cure, and tooling methods were devised, which successfully combined dry-braided AS4 fiber preforms with neat 3501-6 resin to produce the various shapes. The local buckling, post-buckling, and crippling behavior of short thin-walled braided compression members were investigated. The braided composites displayed large scatter in their test data, which may be characteristic of this form of construction. Stiffener pull-off-strength of the braided tee-section approached the transverse strength of the braided composite. Handling during fabrication was much easier with the braid than with conventional prepreg. The braid required only ¼ the time used to layup and bag a similar channel specimen using identical tooling. The high cost of the orthogonal braiding process remains the major barrier to serious structural applications.

Author Information

Gause, LW
Naval Air Development Center, Warminster, PA
Alper, JM
Naval Air Development Center, Warminster, PA
Pages: 14
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: CTR10128J
ISSN: 0884-6804
DOI: 10.1520/CTR10128J