Prediction of Draping Behavior of Woven Fabrics over Double-Curvature Moulds Using Finite Element Techniques

Abstract

The fabrication of textile reinforced polymer composites requires the pre-forming of textiles over open, or within closed moulds before the introduction of the resin. This study is therefore concerned with the draping behavior of jute and glass fibres of various areal densities over double curvature moulds. Experimental investigation of the draping behavior was performed over a specially designed mould comprising different geometries of fillets and sharp edges. Simulation of the deformation behavior using PamForm2G application revealed similar results. Large shear deformations are found around large curves and acute angles. The interaction of geometries further forces woven fabrics to undergo severe shear deformations often leading to the creation of wrinkles.