Weave design and formability of 3D textile preforms for composite applications

Formability is a critical parameter in composite applications, determining a fabric's ability to attain a desired shape. This study evaluates the formability of 3D woven solid structures by analysing their forming energy. Orthogonal and interlock fabrics with six different weave designs are examined, revealing that bending rigidity serves as a reliable indicator of formability, as previously established for 2D graphite fibre preforms. A strong correlation is observed between forming energy and bending rigidity, with fabric crossover points playing a significant role in influencing both parameters. Notably, the correlation between crossover points and bending rigidity is found to be stronger than that with forming energy.