Fabrics and Preforms^[1] Available to Purchase

This article describes the types of fabrics and preforms used to manufacture advanced and industrial-grade composites and the related selection, design, manufacturing, and performance considerations. It shows typical properties of one mixed graphite/aramid fabric type. The article provides a sampling of styles commonly used in aerospace and industrial composite materials applications. It discusses the chemistries of high-performance prepreg resin and reviews fiber tow, yarn, and roving characteristics for towpreg. The article also discusses the tape composite manufacturing processes generally included in three significant categories: hand lay-up, machine-cut patterns laid up by hand, and automatic machine lay-up.