Abstract:

In this study nine multilayer 3D woven structures were produced using polyamide filament yarns both in the warp and weft direction. Three different weaves: plain, 1/3 twill and 3/1 rib in the middle layer, and plain weave in both the top and bottom layers were produced. All specimens were developed on a narrow weaving machine equipped with multi beams and creel options. The samples were tested for tensile strength, air permeability, compressibility, resilience, bending and shear stiffness. Better compressibility was observed in 3/1 warp rib, followed by 1/3 twill and plain weave in the middle layer. Shear stiffness and bending rigidity were higher for those fabrics which had a plain weave in all layers and higher filling density. The air permeability was higher for low weft density, plain weave and its derivative 3/1 warp rib in the middle layer. Tensile strength was higher for those fabrics which were produced with higher weft densities.