3D-reinforcement of composite T-joints by means of robot assisted stitching technology

Focus of this paper is to show the manufacturing of reinforced T-joints and give a short outlook on their performance under dynamic strength testing in a specially designed testing facility. Another aspect is the strain rate dependence of the tested samples. These samples were preformed out of non-crimp fabrics (NCF) using a tufting stitching head mounted on an industrial robot. Carbon fibres were used to reinforce the T-joints on the NCF-skin by means of a robot assisted stitching process. These so-called preforms were then cured with RTM 6 Epoxy resin in an autoclave process. These specimens were tested dynamically in a specialized device at Ernst-Mach-Institut (EMI). Results showed an increase in energy absorption and ultimate strength for these samples.