Bally Ribbon Mills (BRM) will present its latest 3D woven composite technologies at CAMX 2026. The US-based company will display 3D woven joints, thermal protection systems and other engineered composite structures at stand K46. The technologies are designed for applications including spacecraft heat protection, aircraft engines and structural components.

BRM uses continuous 3D weaving to create complex reinforcement structures in which fibres are connected throughout all three dimensions of the weave. Replacing metal with woven carbon fibre composite structures can significantly reduce weight while maintaining the strength and performance needed for demanding aerospace applications.

BRM is also using its 3D weaving technology to develop thermal protection systems for spacecraft and other applications that face very high temperatures. Different types of yarns, fibre densities, thicknesses, widths and resin systems can be combined to create woven structures based on specific thermal and mechanical requirements.

One of BRM’s major developments in this area came from its work with NASA on 3DMAT, a three-dimensional woven quartz material developed for compression pads used on the Orion spacecraft. The material provides both structural support and thermal protection at the connection between the Orion crew and service modules during launch. It was also named NASA’s 2023 Government Invention of the Year.