Braiding applications for civil infrastructure

摘要

Braided composites offer numerous advantages as components of large civil structures. Often viewed as an expensive, complex manufacturing method reserved for aero-space components, braiding is already entering the civil structures market in several areas including light poles and automobile components. As fiber composites continue to achieve wider acceptance in this market, the advantages of braiding: automated processing, optimal use of more expensive fibers in hybrid structures, and minimum scrap rates for these fibers, will be exploited. Given the potential for this progression, it is important to evaluate the options for braided fabrication and consider the advantages offered by the innovative machinery now available.