3K Carbon Fabrics

3K means 3,000 filaments per tow. Hexcel 282 (plain) and 284 (2/2 twill) both weigh 5.80 oz/yd² (197 g/m²) and have 12 × 12 yarns per inch; the twill is thinner and drapes better.

View PDF
Seven fabric weave styles: plain, 4-, 5- and 8-harness satin and crowfoot
Plain and twill weaves differ in drape. FAA-H-8083-31B, Fig. 7-5

3K carbon fabric data

Where to buy
PropertyHexForce 282HexForce 284
WeavePlain2/2 twill
Weight, oz/yd² (g/m²)5.80 (197)5.80 (197)
Dry thickness10.10 mil (0.26 mm)9.1 mil (0.23 mm)
Count, warp × fill per in12 × 1212 × 12
Fiber3K carbon, 33 MSI3K carbon, 33 MSI

Hexcel HexForce 282 and 284 data sheets, as already used on the carbon and aramid page.

Same fabrics as 8552 epoxy prepreg: typical physical properties

PropertyCarbon fabrics
Resin content32–42%
Flow8–22%
Volatiles1.5% max
Gel time at 350 °F12–22 min

HexPly 8552 data sheet, US units, 2020. Cure 350 °F (see the prepreg page).

Working with 3K fabric

The weave is the trade: plain weave is the most stable and holds its shape when cut; twill and satin conform better to curves (FAA Figure 7-5). With no warp marking, the handbook defaults 0° to the direction the fabric comes off the roll (p. 7-3).

Carbon is gray or black, needs lightning protection on exposed skins, and is cathodic to aluminium; titanium or stainless fasteners are the norm (see repair materials).

Limits — when NOT to use this

  • Dry fabric weights, not ply thickness.
  • One manufacturer’s data.
  • SRM first. Ply count and orientation come from the repair manual.

Where to buy

AmericaDistributor coming soonOur partner for this region is on its way
EuropeDistributor coming soonOur partner for this region is on its way
OceaniaDistributor coming soonOur partner for this region is on its way

Distributors coming soon.

Sources

Educational reference only. not approved data. Always consult the applicable SRM, AMM, or AC 43.13-1B and your certifying authority.
esc
↑↓ navigate↵ openesc close