Development of 3D Knitted Preform for Creating a Tjoint monolithic composite

A significant improvement in the mechanical properties of T-joint composite can be achieved by applying monolithic 3D preforms. Using T-shape preforms reduces stress concentration caused by geometric discontinuities in the common T-joint structures. In order to achieve a monolithic preform, tubular knitting technology has been used. For this purpose special techniques such as binding off, intarsia and transfer have been employed for producing 3D Tshape structure using electronic flat knitting machine. The knitting process consists of several stages and the criteria surrounding each stage have been optimized by changing the setup of the machine. In addition to the elimination of stress concentration, the time of production and uniform T-joint composite can be stated as benefits of 3D T-shape preforms