Modern-day carbon fiber was invented in 1964. Since then it has been used in a wide range of industries for a number of different reasons.
Manufacturers love working with carbon fiber because it is strong and lightweight, but many of them often wonder why the price is always so high for the material.
This article will explain exactly what that is.
Great Weight to Strength Ratio
To put it simply so that we don’t get bogged down in too much math, you want certain materials to be incredibly strong without weighing very much. This is where carbon fiber really shines.
This calculation is known as the weight-to-strength ratio. Carbon fiber, when compared to other materials like steel, has a much better weight-to-strength ratio. Even very thin layers are extraordinarily strong.
Strong Stuff
You might have heard that this material is crazy strong, but do you know just how strong it can be? It can withstand significant bumps and scrapes and is resistant to corrosion from a huge variety of chemicals.
As well as that, it fares really really well when it comes up against heat. It has a low rate of thermal expansion. This is a great feature for people that live in particularly hot parts of the country.
Versatility
When most people hear carbon fiber, they immediately think of cars. But you’d be foolish to only associate cars with this excellent material. It has an incredible versatility of applications.
The flight and aerospace industries were two of the first to adopt the use because it is a great replacement for commonly used alloys like titanium and aluminum but at a fraction of the weight.
The sports industry also benefits greatly from the material. Hockey sticks, racing bikes, tennis rackets, golf clubs, and even archery arrows are all commonly made of lightweight, super-strong carbon fiber.
Finally, did you know that carbon fiber is even used in the construction of wind turbines? The blades of the turbine themselves are usually made of fiberglass, but the larger turbines will have a stiffening spare arm that is often made of carbon fiber.
More than just cars.
Long-Term Value
A lot of people who purchase carbon fiber often balk at the high price, but that doesn’t take the bigger picture into account. Yes, carbon fiber often comes with a hefty price tag, but you have to think of the long-term value.
You’re paying so much for the carbon fiber because you’re not going to be purchasing it very often. Because it is so versatile, sturdy, and lightweight, the carbon fiber you purchase should last you a very long time indeed.
Sort All Your Carbon Fiber Needs
Yes, it is expensive, but by now you will have realized that you are firmly paying for what you get. And what you get is a strong material that will last you for however long you need.
If you’re interested in getting your hands on the top-quality material, then contact us here at SMI Composites today. Our team would be more than happy to help you out.
