Unidirectional Carbon Tape

In a unidirectional (UD) ply every fiber runs the same way. Along the fiber the ply is strong and stiff; across it, the strength is about 3% of the 0° value. That is why ply direction is a design item, not a detail.

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Unidirectional and bidirectional fiber layouts
Unidirectional fibers run one way; bidirectional fabric carries load in two directions. FAA-H-8083-31B, Fig. 7-1

Strength along and across the fiber (Toray T700S/epoxy, 60% fiber volume)

Where to buy
DirectionTensile strengthTensile modulusRatio to 0° strength
0° (along fiber)415 ksi (2,860 MPa)19 Msi (134 GPa)100%
90° (across fiber)12 ksi (81 MPa)—about 3% (calculated)
In-plane shear20 ksi (136 MPa)—about 5% (calculated)

Toray T700S data sheet, composite properties normalised to 60% fiber volume, cured with epoxy at 130 °C. T800S gives 477 ksi / 11 ksi (3,290 / 79 MPa). Ratios calculated by The Aviation Point.

Carbon tape prepreg (HexPly 8552)

PropertyCarbon tapes
Resin content33–38%
Flow10–22%
Volatiles1.0% max
Gel time at 350 °F12–22 min

HexPly 8552 data sheet, US units, 2020.

Why direction matters

The FAA handbook shows unidirectional against bidirectional material in Figure 7-1 and defines ply orientation from the warp or roll direction (p. 7-3). Quasi-isotropic layups mix 0°, ±45° and 90° plies so the laminate is similar in all directions (Figure 7-2).

A repair ply laid at the wrong angle puts the strong direction where the load does not go. Orientation is read from the SRM, never guessed from the damaged area.

Quasi-isotropic layup
A quasi-isotropic layup mixes fiber directions. FAA-H-8083-31B, Fig. 7-2

Limits — when NOT to use this

  • Ratios are for one fiber and resin pair.
  • Not a ply design. The SRM gives plies, angles and cure.

Where to buy

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Sources

Educational reference only. not approved data. Always consult the applicable SRM, AMM, or AC 43.13-1B and your certifying authority.
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