When we think of braided (i.e. knitted) objects such as socks that shape to forms, we think of braiding materials such as woolen yarns. This material is much the same in concept, except that A&P Technology braid aramid, carbon and fibreglass materials for use as reinforcement in complex composites.

Sharx braided sleevings can easily conform to the shape of products with changing geometries such as  prosthetics and hockey sticks, improving overall performance, minimizing weight, and maximizing strength.

A sleeving takes on the exact shape and dimensions of the part over which it is pulled. When the sleeving is pulled over a part with changing cross-sections the fiber orientation, the thickness, and the yield of the braid vary at each point along the length of the part. These variations are predictable and repeatable and lend themselves to easy and precise manufacture of composite parts.

Sharx braid is seamless, so all fibers within the reinforcement work together to carry the load. The fibers in Sharx sleevings orient themselves to follow the load path. For instance, a 2″ diameter sleeving used to manufacture a goalie stick pulls down to 1.1″ over the handle, resulting in a low angle which increases the stiffness. As this same sleeving is pulled over the blade of the goalie stick, the braid diameter increases to 2.3″ resulting in a 54.4 degree angle and increased impact resistance.