Experimental characterization and numerical analysis of 3D woven preforms torsional deformation

Abstract To clarify the torsional deformation performance of 3D angle‐interlock woven preforms, this paper aims to establish the relationship between the structural parameters and the torsional deformation performance of fabrics, examining the torsional deformation mechanism of fabrics. The torsional deformation properties of 3D angle‐interlock fabrics are first characterized by experimental methods, and the influence laws of typical structural parameters on the torsional deformation properties of fabrics are obtained. In continuing, a numerical model for 3D angle‐interlock fabric torsional deformation is established based on virtual fiber modeling technology. To demonstrate the accurateness of the newly developed model, its results are methodically compared with the macro‐ and micro‐morphology of fabric torsional deformation, and a reasonably good agreement between their results is attained. The characteristics of the “arc” and “diagonal” arrangement of yarns in the same column after torsional deformation are effectively employed to propose a quantitative analysis of the deviation degree of yarns. This analysis is essentially based on the variation coefficient index, which is commonly utilized to compare and analyze the variation laws of warp and weft cross‐sections at different torsion angles. This study holds scientific significance and engineering value for optimizing the design and enhancing the performance of composite blades. Highlights Design the torsional deformation device of the preform. The torsion Angle torque curve of the preform was tested. The numerical simulation method of torsion deformation is established. The microstructure deformation mechanism of the preform was analyzed.