Cost modeling for 3D woven preforming process

There have been many publications on "3D Weaving", and there are numerous parents on a variety of devices that may be used to make a "3D Woven" structure. The majority of the 3D woven products that are currently commercially available are formed by a 2D weaving process that is used to build up a preform with fibers oriented in three dimensions. Multiple insertion 3D weaving involves 3D fabric formation with each process cycle, i.e. multi-layers at one time. The 3Weaving(TM) process is a multiple insertion 3D weaving technology that is different from traditional weaving. The successful development and application of 3D woven composites will depend on an accurate understanding of the cost drivers in the manufacturing process. The costs associated with textile preforming are not as straightforward as one might expect. After explaining the distinction of multiple insertion 3D weaving, this paper will focus on cost modeling of the 3Weaving(TM) process. The effects of fabric design; fabric size (thickness and width); fiber size (linear density) on fiber cost will be discussed in terms of setup cost, running production cost and conversion cost.