Microstructural Analysis of Wound Composites with Considerations on the Fiber Winding Force

Abstract. The paper concerns issues related to the fabrication and microstructural analysis of carbon glass fiber-reinforced epoxy composites. For purposes tests, ring samples fiber were fabricated, each sample being made same amount material. rings produced by circumferentially wrapping fibers onto a rigid core. During winding, tension was changed for investigate whether distribution in composite depending on force applied. applied forces ranged from 18 138 N. In next stage small fragments cut out rings, cutting perpendicularly arrangement bundles. elements then embedded resin. microsections prepared this ground using grinding disc with gradation 80 4000 polished, washed dried. After these treatments, microscopic photos tested surfaces taken. Observations NEOPHOT 32 microscope an integrated camera KEYENCE VHX microscope. volume fraction voids discontinuities matrix, as well fibers, determined measuring percentage surface areas occupied appropriate components composite. On cross-section individual samples, photographs taken three planes parallel layers perpendicular  matrix system. image method used verification, which it is assumed that assessment two-dimensional section representative its volumetric distribution. This mainly analyze constant cross-section. most important conclusions conducted analyses allow authors state both composites are highly packed there no significant noticeable effect during winding "packing" density