Formability Characterization of Stitched Preform Toward Applying for Composite Structures

Characterization of the stitched textile preform is required for the prediction of textile preforms forming in the fabrication of composite structures for aerospace applications. The behavior of the preform in compression during resin injection into the preform is one of the critical issues in achieving a high-quality composite for space structures. This paper concentrates on the experimental and finite element analysis of compaction for textile preform. The investigation of mechanical properties of preforms during compression tests revealed that formability parameters of a preform can be altered by the stitching process. The load-deformation response, which is depicted in detail, had the greatest influence on the preform deformation. Compression of the stitched preform resulted in less tow undulation in the plane direction and more stitching thread undulation in the thickness direction, while the stitching thread stimulated the preform to endure more pressure. The results provided more detailed insights into the effects of compaction on other properties such as permeability and composite mechanical behavior, which is based on the internal geometry of 3D textile preforms.