“3D woven composite preforms with engineered fibre architectures —
delivering strength, precision, and structural integrity”
At M. Wright & Sons, our Advanced Composites Division, designs and manufactures high-performance woven narrow fabrics and “dry” 3D woven composite preforms for use in structural composite components.
These preforms are engineered for integration into laid-up and resin-infused systems, delivering enhanced mechanical performance in demanding applications where strength, weight, and durability are critical.
Advanced Fibre Capability
We process a range of high-performance fibres to meet the structural and environmental demands of modern composite applications:
- Carbon Fibre
- Kevlar® / Para-Aramid
- Basalt Fibre
- Ceramic (High-Purity Alumina)
Material selection is tailored to achieve the required balance of strength, weight, thermal resistance, and durability for each application.
3D Fibre Architecture — Beyond Traditional Laminates
Our 3D woven preforms are constructed using complex multi-layer fibre architectures, where:
- X-Y layers provide in-plane strength
- Through-thickness Z fibres bind the structure together
This integrated structure significantly improves interlaminar performance compared to traditional laminated composites.
When infused with resin, the result is a component with:
- Enhanced through-thickness strength
- Improved damage tolerance
- Reduced risk of delamination
- Retained high in-plane mechanical properties
Key Performance Characteristics
- Complex three-dimensional shapes
- Mould-ready, near net shape construction
- X, Y, and Z axis fibre reinforcement
- Crimp-free warp direction for optimal load performance
- High in-plane tensile strength
- Excellent through-thickness damage tolerance
- Scalable width and thickness via precision repeat structures
- Strong correlation between FEA modelling and real-world performance
- Good machinability for post-processing
Precision Manufacturing Technology
Our composite preforms are produced on custom-built looms, developed from narrow fabric weaving principles and integrated with advanced jacquard systems.
This creates a fully computer-controlled manufacturing cell where:
- Fibre placement is precisely controlled
- Complex geometries are accurately produced
- Repeatability is maintained across production runs
Bespoke software synchronises loom and jacquard operation, ensuring exact fibre positioning and structural consistency at scale.
Engineered for Integration
We work closely with customers to develop preforms that integrate seamlessly into their manufacturing processes—whether for resin infusion, RTM, or other composite forming techniques.
From initial design through to final production, our approach ensures that each preform is optimised for both performance and manufacturability.
Application Areas
Our 3D woven composite preforms are used in high-performance sectors where structural integrity and weight reduction are critical:
- Aerospace and defence components
- Automotive and motorsport structures
- Industrial and mechanical systems
- Energy and infrastructure applications
- Advanced engineering and R&D projects
Collaborative Engineering Approach
We’re not just manufacturers — we’re engineering partners.
Our team works alongside yours to develop composite solutions that meet exact structural, mechanical, and processing requirements, reducing development risk and improving final component performance.
Why Partner with M. Wright & Sons?
160+ Years of Technical Weaving Excellence
know-how to every project.
ISO-Certified & Industry Compliant
Fully Integrated UK Manufacturing
for total quality control.
Custom-Built for Your Sector
We develop tailored webbing solutions for industries ranging from PPE and military to outdoor and industrial applications.
Innovation Through Partnership
We’re not just textile manufacturers — we’re collaborative engineering partners. From initial concept to final weave,
we work alongside your team to bring innovative narrow fabric technologies to life.
Get in touch with the Advanced Composites Team
Whether you’re elevating safety gear, innovating lifestyle applications, or building next-generation protective textiles, M. Wright & Sons is your trusted partner in performance.
