An optimized fiber tow orientation, to achieve substantially uniform fiber tow volume across the web, e.g., from inner diameter (ID) to the outer diameter (OD) of a disc shaped preform, without substantially varying the angles of the plurality of fiber tows radially or circumferentially is described herein. Utilizing the systems and processes described herein, a net shape preform may be created. A substantially continuous fiber tow may be used to form the preform. The fiber tow angle of each fiber tow may vary, from more radial, such as at the ID, to more tangential, such as at the OD, as the radius increases, such that there is substantially uniform thickness and substantially uniform areal weight from ID to OD of the preform or layer.