Carbon fiber sheet for the automotive industry

However, a carbon fiber sheet cannot withstand loads without undergoing a forming and impregnation process. Technical fiber-reinforced parts are commonly known as composites, or composite materials. They consist of a core of fibers and laminates of technical fibers bonded together with epoxy resins.

For further understanding, metal-framed concrete structures can also be considered composite materials. The metal frame or rods support the tension, while the concrete supports the compression.

The result of the various methods of impregnation and constitution of composites with technical fibers is a material with high mechanical strength but a much lower weight than steel.

One of its main applications, due to its characteristics, is in the automotive industry, although it is also frequently used in aeronautics, sports, the manufacture of lightweight parts or even as reinforcement in windmills for wind energy.

Carbon fiber sheet for automobiles

Due to the benefits of using this material in the manufacture of not only sports cars, but also series production cars, it is estimated that in a few years carbon fiber will be used on a massive scale and it is already known as "the material of the future".

For example, Formula 1 cars use carbon fiber for its lightness and durability, but largely for the safety it offers in the event of impacts or strong impacts at high speed.

Because the carbon fiber sheet is more resistant to stress than steel in relation to the weight used for some car parts are manufactured or reinforced with it. The parts in which it is most commonly used are:

• Fittings. Some carbon fiber parts are simple trim inserts in vehicle interiors or mirror housings.
• On the other hand, some cars already use carbon fiber as engine hood, roof, front, intermediate and rear posts as well as impact elements. The latter are designed to absorb as much energy as possible in the event of a collision. Other elements include accessories such as spoilers to improve the car's aerodynamics and traction.
• Technical fiber-reinforced composites are increasingly used as chassis reinforcements, bumpers and impact absorption elements. In addition, carbon fiber laminates are used for the production of rims for sports cars.

What are the advantages of carbon fiber laminates?

Among the main advantages of using carbon fiber laminate for certain vehicle parts are:

• Fairly light but strong material, it is gradually replacing aluminum in automotive. Its characteristics make it a promising material for fuel economy.
• Strength. The mechanical tensile strength of carbon fibers and laminates makes it possible to replace common materials. At the moment, engineered composites are more expensive than common metals, so the application of highly engineered parts is only common in high-end cars.

At ESGRAF we are experts in graphite and carbon materials. We are pleased to be able to support you in your projects and share with you relevant information on the latest developments in our industry such as carbon fiber sheet. If you have a project for which you want a graphite and carbon solution, we can help you, click here.

Limitations to consider

Performance depends on graphite grade, grain orientation, temperature, load, pressure, speed, and operating environment. Material selection should be confirmed for your actual process conditions.

Information needed for a quote

To guide selection or prepare a quote, ESGRAF typically needs:

• Application and operating conditions (temperature, atmosphere, load).
• Dimensions, technical drawing, or CAD file when applicable.
• Required quantity.
• Requested grade or material currently in use.
• Observed issue with the previous part or lubricant, if any.

Request a quote

Share these details with our team at ESGRAF or request information. A specialist will review your application before recommending a grade or geometry.