Unidirectional (UD) are reinforcements in which over 90% of the fibers are aligned in the same direction to maximize stiffness and strength along the main axis. They allow efficient laminates, with less weight than balanced fabrics.
Main advantages:
Main advantages:
- Maximum performance along the load direction
- Optimization of thicknesses and weight
- Easy combination with other orientations (+/−45°, 90°)
- Available customized for weight, support and width
Unidirectional fabrics can be stabilized with the following solutions:
- With a soft polyester thread for greater drapeability untile for manual impregnation
- With a thermoplastic thread for dimensional stability of the fabric in order to avoid fraying.
On request it is possible to subject the fabric to a plasma treatment for perfect impregnation.
PERFORMANCE
Performance depends on fiber, weight and volume fraction of resin. With well-established UDs the following are obtained:
- Very high longitudinal stiffness (E1) and tensile/compressive strength
- Better weight/performance ratio in custom quasi-isotropic laminates
- Reduced waviness and defects thanks to adequate stabilization
- Aerospace: panels, stringer reinforcements, sandwich leathers
- Sports: bike frames, paddle blades, racing equipment
- Construction: FRP plating, beam and vault reinforcements
Download the technical data sheets to find out about weights, thicknesses and resin compatibility, or request samples for process and performance tests. Technical support available for custom configurations.
What is the difference between UD and balanced fabrics?
In UD the main direction concentrates the resistance; balanced ones distribute the fibers in two directions. They are used together to achieve the desired layup.
What widths and weights are available?
We work to specification: typically 100–1270 mm and 80–1200 g/m², depending on the fiber and support.
Are UDs suitable for infusion?
Yes, with supports and stitches optimized for flow. We offer options dedicated to infusion and prepreg.
Can I request certifications?
Yes, the quality system is EN UNI ISO 9001:2015 certified; we provide traceability and documents on request.
How do I choose the orientation?
Start from the loading directions: 0°, 90° and +/−45° are the most common; we define the optimal stacking with you.
In UD the main direction concentrates the resistance; balanced ones distribute the fibers in two directions. They are used together to achieve the desired layup.
What widths and weights are available?
We work to specification: typically 100–1270 mm and 80–1200 g/m², depending on the fiber and support.
Are UDs suitable for infusion?
Yes, with supports and stitches optimized for flow. We offer options dedicated to infusion and prepreg.
Can I request certifications?
Yes, the quality system is EN UNI ISO 9001:2015 certified; we provide traceability and documents on request.
How do I choose the orientation?
Start from the loading directions: 0°, 90° and +/−45° are the most common; we define the optimal stacking with you.