Experimental simulation of friction and wear of carbon yarns during the weaving process

Nowadays many mechanical composite parts are reinforced by carbon weaving material. During the weaving process some damage to the carbon yarns appears that decreases the final mechanical properties of the part. This study focused on the friction interactions that occurred between warp yarns. A specific kinematic experiment has been done in order to simulate the weaving movement of these yarns, which induces friction. By varying experimental parameters, initial normal load, oscillation frequency and oscillation angle, it is possible to understand their influence on friction phenomena and fibre damage. The energies induced during friction have also been studied. The results obtained show that the coefficient of friction decreases with the increase of normal load, but is not influenced by the oscillation frequency. Yarn wear, i.e. filament breaks, appears beyond a certain normal load. The friction energy increases with normal load and oscillating angle but does not depend on oscillation frequency.