Why is fabric overlapped in a laminate?

The fabric in a laminate is overlapped primarily to help transfer stress between layers. Overlapping fabric enhances the structural integrity of the laminate by providing a continuous load path. This means that when stresses are applied to the composite, the load can be effectively distributed across the overlapping areas, minimizing the risk of delamination or failure at points where the layers are joined.

By creating this overlap, you ensure that there are more points of contact between layers, which aids in bonding and improves the overall strength of the composite. This is especially important in applications where the laminate will experience dynamic loads or impacts, as the overlap helps in maintaining the integrity of the laminate throughout its use.

Other options do not directly relate to the primary function of overlapping fabric. While aesthetics might be a consideration in some designs, it is not the core reason for the overlap in laminate construction. Weight reduction and increasing thickness, although they can be factors in laminate design, are not the primary reasons for fabric overlap.