Manufacturing of single-piece textile reinforced riot helmet shell from vacuum bagging

Abstract

The proposed research aims to develop a novel technique for the creation of composite riot helmet shells with reinforcing fibre continuity for better protection against low-velocity impacts. In this research paper, an innovative, simple and effective method of making a single-piece continuous textile reinforced helmet shell using vacuum bagging has been established and discussed. This technique also includes the development of solid collapsible moulding apparatus from nonwoven fibres. Angle-interlock fabric, due to its good mouldability, low shear rigidity and ease of production, is used in this research. Several wrinkle-free single-piece composite riot helmet shells have been manufactured. © The Author(s) 2013 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.