TM 1-1500-204-23-11
4-2. FIBERS. The primary function of the ibers is to
and/or rovings are combined in different ways to
carry load and to provide the required part stiffness.
make different types of fabric. The fabric may be
Carbon, boron, iberglass and aramid (Kevlar) are
coated or left uninished. Some fabrics, such as
the most common ibers in use on aircraft. Individual
iberglass, require a inish to bond properly to the
ibers are bundled together into groups. These groups
resin matrix. The type of inish used depends on the
are called strands for iberglass products and tows
resin type to be used (i.e., epoxy, polyester, phenolic).
for carbon. Larger iber groups consisting of multiple
Finish should not be confused with the size (or sizing)
strands or tows are called yarns when twisted or
applied to the ibers during the weaving process. See
rovings when not twisted. Strands, tows, yarns,