Is all carbon created equal?

General Composites Discussions Composites Talk
#1

Hello, I’m new to here. I am interested in getting started and making my own one-off parts for my sportbike. I have done a ton of reading about CF work but there are a few things that are still left unclear.

Is all carbon created equal? I read on a site that there are two qualities of carbon produced. 1) Those that pass “certification testing” and 2) those that don’t. I didn’t find any other info about this certification stuff anywhere else. It stated that the “certified quality” carbon is suited for structural components while the lower quality CF is not due to imperfections that could lead to component failure. This is significant in my case since I am intersted in making my self a carbon subframe.
Thanks.

#2

Pretty much what you said. All carbon is not created equal.

Knowing the weight, weave pattern and characteristics of each weave pattern, and tow size also helps.

If I were you I would research more about manufacturing methods of FRP rather than the actual material your going to use. Like “Resin Infusion”, or, “Vacuum Bagging”.

If youve never vacuum bagged then dont bother with it. Ive done several hundred wet layups and am still learning something new each time. Resin Infusion is much more user friendly and the learning curve is less harsh.

#3

thanks I am currently looking into resin infusion, but it soulds really complex:(

#4

bingo.
There is the really high quality that would be sent to areospace industries, and things that CAN NOT fail, whilst places like my work, we make satellite dishes…woo. There is also a difference between graphite, and carbon fibers. I think graphite is processed more, and is lighter.

#5

ya graphite is processed under higher temp which allows reorganization(my chem degree coming into play:D ) of the carbon atoms into a more “stable”(lower energy form), I don’t think that it is as strong though, but not sure. Any comments about the strength?

#6

Sounds complex, but, its way easier than vacuum bagging. And way cleaner, healthier, less stressfull, and cheaper (in the long run).

#7

The more I read about it the more right you are. It’s just a matter of never having seen the whole setup, execution, and completion start-to-finish that leaves me puzzled.

#8

infusion is not difficult at all.the hardest part is sealing the bag correctly…

#9

and if you have a leak how to find it quickly!

#10

To find a leak, use fiberglass as the reinforcement and a spray bottle with food coloring and some water…

#11

i am talking while or after the part is infused. I sometimes get a pin hole in the bag that will not start leaking till resin is added

#12

how is it that you spontaneously sprout a pin hole in the bag?

#13

Any sharp edge or tool…sometimes just eyeballing it too! :rolleyes: