Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer
Polymer Carbon fiber is a popular choice for a number of applications these days. If you want the basics about this material and how it is prepared, here is all the information that will satisfy your curiosity.
What is Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer?
Also known simply as carbon fiber, graphite fiber or Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic is actually a light fiber reinforced polymer which is incredibly strong, composed of carbon fibers. Polyepoxide (epoxy) is the polymer used most of the time but other polymers like vinyl, nylon, ester or even polyester can be used in some cases. Other fibers like glass fibers, Kevlar and aluminum may also be used along with carbon fibers.
What are the Applications of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer?
Many automotive and aerospace applications of this fiber reinforced polymer exist even though it can be a bit expensive compared to other polymers. Modern bicycles, sailboats, motorcycles and even Formula One automobiles make use of this compound. The reason for such popularity is the high strength to weight ratio. These days it is quite common in consumer goods even like paintball equipment, fishing rods, laptops, tripods, racquet frames, archery equipment, golf clubs, tent poles, snooker cues and even stringed instruments. The reason fort this is the development of better manufacturing techniques which have consequently reduced costs.
How is Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic Manufactured?
Depending on the application, quantity and finish required, the manufacturing process of carbon fibre can vary. The basic processes include molding, vacuum bagging, compression molding and filament winding. Molding produces graphite-epoxy parts by a layering process whereby sheets of carbon fiber cloth can be placed into molds to achieve a specific product shape. This creates strong and corrosion resistant pieces.
Vacuum bagging is another process which is used if the quantity is less and the pieces are simple. A vacuum bag containing a polished and waxed mold (carbon fiber, fiberglass, or aluminum) is used and the fabric and resin are kept in the mold after a release agent is applied. The vacuum bag is then set aside which makes the piece harden. There are three methods of vacuum bagging: wet layup, resin induction system and dry layup.
Compression Molding is a faster method for manufacturing carbon fiber. A compression mold is actually a two piece mold bolted together with resin and fabric. The mold can be made with aluminum or fiber glass. This can be stored without requiring a vacum but this process requires more material that can withstand the pressure. For manufacturing complicated or difficult shapes filament winding using a filament winder can also be used.
A blog about Carbon Fiber Vinyl by Get Carbon Fiber
