Yarn/Yarn Friction Analysis Considering the Weaving Process of Textile Fabrics: Analytical Model and Experimental Validation

The friction between twisted yarns during the process of manufacturing textile reinforcements has been considered an important issue that can strongly influence the mechanical properties of the preform, which deteriorate the mechanical characteristics of fiber-reinforced composites if the friction is excessive. Based on Hertzian contact theory, a novel analytical model has been developed in this research to describe the friction behavior between the twisted yarns in orthogonal and non-orthogonal contact. The realistic contact area was modeled under micro/meso scales taking into account the contact angle between the yarns and the orientation of the fibers influenced by the twist. The efficacy of the developed model was confirmed by the experimental approach. Through the developed model, the yarn/yarn friction behaviors were characterized under different conditions considering the weaving process, such as orthogonal and non-orthogonal contact, same/different twist level, and same/different twist direction, which is essential for optimizing the textile preform forming process and enhancing the mechanical properties of the composites.