Importance of Using Custom Carbon Fiber in Cars

In the automotive engineering sector, the quality and innovation of materials matter greatly. They determine the effectiveness, function, and safety of cars. One item that has revolutionized the industry is carbon fiber.

Carbon fiber has found its place in modern automobiles like a rave. But one may ask, what makes this object so extraordinary? That’s why we are going to discuss that. With expertise in the automobile industry, we will enlighten you on the importance of carbon fiber in cars and explore its exceptional applications and advantages.

So buckle up. We take you into the lightweight yet robust world of carbon fiber in automotive design.

What is Carbon Fiber?

Before we start with the details, you need to know the basics. Have you ever heard of carbon fiber? It’s a material used in cars to make them lighter without compromising strength. But its use is not limited to cars- it is applied in helmets, phone cases, bicycles, aircraft, and guitars, to name a few. Most fancy sports cars and supercar owners want their vehicles to be as light as possible. Carbon fiber helps them do just that by redefining aerodynamic designs.

Carbon fiber is five times lighter than steel and even lighter than aluminum, which is already pretty light. So, when you have two cars that are the same but one that has parts made of carbon fiber, that car is going to have the edge. Why? Because being lighter means it can make the most of its engine power.

So, when we talk solely about car elements, carbon fiber helps cars go faster and perform better. It is what most racers want.

How Is Carbon Fiber Made?

Carbon fiber is an exceptional material used in several things, from sports equipment to high-tech cars and airplanes. But have you ever wondered how one makes it?

Well, we are going to break it down for you-

• First, the carbon fiber starts its journey as a type of plastic called polyacrylonitrile, or PAN, an organic polymer precursor. But it is not just any plastic. This plastic is different and gets a radical transformation. The process starts with spinning this PAN plastic into long, thin fibers. It is similar to a spider spinning its web but on a much smaller scale. These fibers are a hundred times thinner than human hair.
• Then, fibers are heated to a soaring temperature of around 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit in an oxygen-free environment. This step is crucial because it helps burn away all the non-carbon elements in the fibers, leaving behind only the pure carbon goodness.
• Once the fibers are nice and crispy, they are ready for bonding, holding them together to form a carbon fiber thread. This thread is the building block of carbon fiber materials. It’s strong, lightweight, and ready to be molded into any shape you can imagine.
• Now comes the fun part- weaving or layering these carbon fiber threads together to create sheets or panels. People can customize these sheets with different patterns or orientations of the fibers to give them particular properties, like extra strength or flexibility.
• Once the carbon fiber sheets are all laid out, it’s time to give them some structure. It is where things get impressive. You can mold these sheets into almost any shape imaginable. Imagine shaping clay with your hands, but instead of clay, you use high-tech carbon fiber sheets.
• After finishing with the molding and the carbon fiber part takes shape beautifully, it’s time to give it some finishing touches. It might involve trimming off any excess material, sanding down rough edges, or adding a protective coating to keep it looking shiny and new. Common coat materials include polyester, epoxy, urethane, nylon, and others.
• And there we are- your custom-made carbon fiber part, ready to take on the world with its unbeatable combination of strength, lightness, and style.

Carbon fiber can be used to make many items, such as bike frames, airplane wings, car parts, and more. It has changed how practical equipment is built and is in high demand. The only downside is that it takes time to finish a product and has a slightly high cost. But on the bigger picture, it is a solid investment.

What Are The Different Types Of Carbon Fiber?

Carbon fiber is classified into various categories based on mechanical properties, raw materials, and final heating treatments. Each type has distinctive features that people may need to be aware of. Let us shed some light on it-

Carbon Fiber Based On Raw Material-

•  PAN-based Carbon Fiber

This one is made by Polyacrylonitrile or PAN precursor carbonization. This material shows exceptional strength when pulled or stretched and high elasticity levels, making it resistant to deformation under stress. Professionals use it extensively in industrial fields, aerospace, recreational products, and sports items for structural material composites.

• Pitch-based Carbon Fiber

This type is made by heating a substance called pitch, which comes from oil or coal. Pitch-based carbon fiber can have diverse properties, from being not very stiff to being extremely stiff.

The stiffest fibers are used in things that need to be very rigid, like well-built parts in machines or other structures. These fibers are also good at conducting heat and electricity, so they are helpful in applications where these properties are valid.

Different Carbon Fiber Weaves-

There are numerous carbon fiber weaves, but we will discuss only the primary ones.

• One-Way Patterned Fabric:

This type is like a secret weapon for strength in a specific direction. It’s not the showstopper you often see because it likes to work behind the scenes, tucked under other layers. But when you need strength in one particular direction, this is the go-to guy.

•  Twill:

In a twill weave, the threads follow a pattern that goes over several threads and then under the same number. It creates a diagonal line pattern, like little arrows pointing in one direction. This pattern is sometimes called a “twill line.” It is stable but not quite as rock-solid as plain weave. So, it’s incredible for shaping intricate designs but not the absolute best if you need something sturdy.

• Pre-Preg:

A carbon fiber fabric getting an exclusive treatment with resin and a hardener during production- that’s pre-preg carbon fiber for you. This one is all about precision. The amount of fabric and resin is measured to a tee, ensuring consistency and reliability. But like all good things, it comes with a catch- it can be a bit pricey.

• Plain weave:

When you look at a plain weave carbon fiber sheet, you’ll notice a symmetrical look, almost like a little checkerboard pattern. The threads are crisscrossed in a pattern of going over and under each other. It has good stability, meaning how well a fabric keeps its pattern and the direction of its threads. Plain weave is stable, but it’s not the most suitable to create complex shapes because it’s not very flexible. It’s better suited for a few things like tubes, flat sheets, and simple curves.

Types Based on the Final Heat Treatment Temperature

Regarding the final heat treatment temperature, these are the following categories-

• Low heat treatment (LHT)-

The carbon fiber makers heat the fiber to lower temperatures, not beyond 1000°C. They are used in applications where extreme rigidity or strength isn’t necessary. It has a lower rigidity level and strength compared to the other types.

• Intermediate heat treatment (IHT)—

The temperatures used in this one are generally around or more than 1500°C. They are recognized for their power and are frequently used in applications where sturdiness is significant.

• High heat treatment (HTT)—

This type of carbon fiber requires relatively high temperatures above 2000°C. It’s known for its elevated stiffness and is used in applications requiring severe rigidity.

The Applications Of Carbon Fiber

Did you know that carbon fiber is five times stronger than steel? It has almost 90% carbon content and is widely known for its durability, low density, and rigidity.

There are multiple applications of this material in the manufacturing field. Here are some of its applications-

• Used in Automobiles

Have you ever noticed how some fancy cars seem to glide effortlessly? That is because car enthusiasts love having carbon fiber in their vehicles. The quick and lightweight material is in demand today and does not seem to be going anywhere soon.

The application of carbon fiber race interior and exterior is a fancy notion for many. Car fiber interiors have a decorative aspect. It has been in demand for vehicles like Maserati, Cadillacs, Lexus LC, and more. For external uses, you may find carbon fiber in roofs, hoods, steering wheels, front dashboards, side mirrors, door handles, and rear spoilers. Electric cars also use carbon fiber.

Carbon fiber makes cars lighter by replacing heavy metal parts. That means they use less gas and emit fewer terrible emissions. Plus, it helps car companies save lots of money during production compared to other pricey materials like aluminum.

Hence, the next time you see a sleek car zooming by, remember that carbon fiber plays a massive role in making it impressively efficient.

• Home Interior and Decor Uses

Designers use carbon fiber to create practical objects like kitchen gadgets, watches, and furnishings. It is tough as nails, so it is excellent for furniture and utensils that need to endure some grave wear and tear.

It is also used in impressive, futuristic-looking picture frames and light fixtures. Carbon fiber has this exclusive vibe that sets it apart from other materials like metal or glass. Plus, it adds a pinch of modernity to any room without being too harsh.

• Aerospace Application

In 1940, Lockheed Corporation, an aerospace manufacturing firm, was the first to use carbon fiber in an airplane. They created the P-38 fighter plane, which was stronger and lighter.

Fast-forward to today, and carbon fiber is creating positive ripples in the aircraft industry. It’s the magic ingredient helping planes weigh less than usual, making them lighter and more fuel-efficient.

So, when you fly high, you can thank carbon fiber for helping you get there with less weight on your wings!

• Sports Equipment Usage

Numerous athletes use carbon fiber in sports equipment. It includes golf clubs, helmets, bicycle wheels and frames, etc. The sole reason why they are used in sports kits is purely for lightweight.

Being lighter than wood, plastic, and metal, it is easier for athletes to carry around. Because of its low weight, it is easy for them to run, swim, or take a shot while wearing or using it. Carbon fibers were used to make tennis racquets, which proved stronger and faster for players.

• Military Equipment

Did you know military soldiers use equipment made out of carbon fiber? Military-grade armor, like armor and ballistic shields, has carbon fiber for safety and easy use. Soldiers rely on this stuff for their armor, shields, and even parts of their equipment, such as doors and struts. It is all about safety and making their gear lightweight so they can move quickly and stay protected.

The US Department of Defense uses it to craft knives and guns. First, they cut out the shape they need from a carbon fiber sheet, then smooth all the edges for safety after they bake it at high temperatures until it is firm and ready for action.

These were some of the applications of carbon fiber. They are also used in wind turbines, medical devices, and the civil engineering sector. Since we emphasize cars with carbon fiber interior and exterior, let us give you a small trivia.

Car makers in the past had to remove specific components from the interior to cut down on weight, like radio or back seats. They even used weird materials like nylon strings for door handles. Those were the odd days. But the good news is the automobile industry can relax now. Car makers are using carbon fiber to keep things lightweight without sacrificing style.

Benefits of Using Carbon Fiber in Cars

Carbon fiber has gained popularity like no other material in the automotive industry. Due to its sturdy and weightlessness, it is a much-loved choice for car enthusiasts. Several modern motorcycles and cars have benefited from it.

Here are a few reasons why custom carbon fiber in cars is becoming a top choice for vehicle owners-

• Weightless

Using carbon fiber in cars makes them feel weightless, like a feather. The material is incredibly light yet super strong, so car manufacturers can shed pounds off the vehicle’s weight by using it.

And why does that matter? It is suitable for a couple of reasons. A lighter car means better fuel efficiency- it uses less gas, saving you money at the gas station. Plus, you get an incredible upgrade to a speedier ride, giving you that extra adrenaline rush for the road.

So, when you are behind the wheel of a carbon fiber car, it is not just about driving but a smooth gliding experience.

• Tensile Strength

Carbon fiber has an elevated strength-to-weight ratio. It is solid, even more powerful than steel, but without all the weight. It reinforces the crucial components of cars.

That means cars made with carbon fiber can handle more stress and impact without getting damaged. Therefore, they are lighter and more challenging, too.

People who love road trips should also consider a carbon fiber upgrade in their vehicle. It allows them to rely more on their car and explore terrains without hesitation. You don’t want to send your vehicle for repairs frequently. That is why carbon fiber is a preferred material.

• High Performance

When you combine weightlessness and strength, you get maximized performance! Cars with carbon fiber parts can accelerate faster, corner sharper, and brake quicker. You give your car a turbo boost without actually adding a turbo.

Most like this material for a heart-car ride or race time because of the improved weight distribution. Had it not been for poor weight distribution, race cars would have toppled off easily when making turns or could not have gained speed.

• Fuel Efficiency

Using carbon fiber in cars makes them lighter, which improves fuel efficiency. When a car is lighter, it does not need as much fuel to move around.

For example, imagine two cars: one made with traditional materials and another with carbon fiber parts. The carbon fiber car weighs less, so it needs less fuel to drive the same distance as the heavier car.

It means you spend less money on gas and emit fewer pollutants into the air, which is good for your wallet and the environment. Therefore, lighter cars with carbon fiber parts save you money and help keep the planet clean.

• Aesthetic Appeal

All the sports cars have a unique design that catches the eye instantly. You may have some moments where you see a car and go, “Wow”? Well, carbon fiber can help you get there.

It is not just for car parts anymore- it is also used for things like hoods and wraps to give your ride some serious style points.

Take carbon fiber hoods, for example. They fit like a glove on all sorts of car models, and the best part is You can paint them however you want to match your ride’s vibe. So, get the carbon fiber material for cars soon.

• Customization Options

You know about the attractive appeal carbon fiber brings to a car. But wait, there is more! If you feel fancy, you can go even further with carbon fiber by installing wraps on things like mirrors, spoilers, and even the whole hood.

Car designers can mold it into all sorts of shapes and sizes to get creative with the design. The result is an awe-inspiring carbon fiber-wrapped interior and exterior!

The best part? There are plenty of customization options available, so you can make your car truly one-of-a-kind. Carbon fiber covers you whether you are into a sleek, stealthy look or something more flashy. Isn’t that a fantastic benefit?

• Better Corrosion Resistance

Using carbon fiber in cars helps prevent corrosion, a common issue with metal car parts. Unlike traditional metal parts that can rust over time, carbon fiber parts are corrosion-resistant.

For instance, think about a car’s exterior body panels. If they are made of carbon fiber instead of metal, they won’t rust, even if exposed to rain or salty roads.

It means your car will stay looking good and maintain its strength for longer, even in harsh conditions. Hence, choosing carbon fiber gives you a sleeker look and protection against corrosion.

• Future-Proof

Using carbon fiber in cars isn’t just about the here and now but about future-proofing your ride. As technology keeps evolving rapidly and car designs get even better, carbon fiber is set to be a big player in the future of cars.

So, if you choose a car with carbon fiber parts today, you get a sweet ride and set yourself up for all the new developments. It is similar to investing in a vehicle ready to roll with the changes. Carbon fiber car body keeps you ahead of the game and prepared for all the winning rides in the future.

• Heat Resistant And Low Thermal Expansion

Scientifically speaking, when a metal heats up, it may expand. But that is not the same with carbon fiber. Carbon fiber car parts are good for race cars because they do not conduct heat well, unlike metals. When race cars run, they generate a lot of heat. If the materials used in making the car parts are good at conducting heat, it can be a problem.

But carbon fiber isn’t like that. It helps manage heat better, which means parts made with carbon fiber won’t weaken or degrade over time like they might with other materials. Race car teams like using it because they don’t want their car parts to weaken due to the heat. Carbon fiber car interiors keep the parts at a steady temperature, which is fantastic for racing.

•  Increased durability

Racecar drivers need to trust that their ride won’t fall apart mid-race. Imagine how much money they would blow if they had to replace parts after every spin around the track! Since racing is highly harsh on cars, they would require something sturdy. This is where carbon fiber comes in.

Unlike traditional steel, carbon fiber custom car parts are well-built and weigh like a feather. Thus, when these cars are under severe pressure, carbon fiber parts keep them together. It’s like the hidden weapon for racers who need every ounce of speed.

• Cost Savings

Here is another benefit of using carbon fiber in cars—it might cost a bit more upfront compared to regular materials, but it is worth it in the long haul.

Imagine driving down the road with sturdy carbon fiber parts instead of the usual stuff in your car. They are strong and virtually indestructible. That means fewer trips to the mechanic for repairs and more cash staying in your pocket.

But there is more to it. Carbon fiber is unbelievably light, which means your car guzzles less gas. And you can guess what it means- more money saved at the pump.

You might shell out a bit more at first, but the savings down the road are worth it. Hence, go ahead and invest in carbon fiber, and watch those savings roll in!

• Environmental Benefits

We are in a time when climate change has become a grave issue. This is why using carbon fiber in cars brings several advantages, especially for the environment. Carbon fibers tend to be lighter when used in making cars.

This implies that they use less fuel, which reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Lighter cars also need smaller engines, which consume less fuel.

Moreover, carbon fiber auto interiors and exteriors are durable, meaning they are made to last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and thus cutting down on waste. Therefore, using carbon fiber makes cars more fuel-efficient and helps protect our planet by reducing pollution and waste.

Discover the Brilliance of Carbon Fiber Interiors in Your Cars Now!

We have thoroughly established that carbon fiber is becoming increasingly popular in race cars, and it is not hard to see why. This lightweight yet robust material boosts safety, speed, and general performance efficiency.

Carbon fiber improves racing experiences, ensuring cars maintain the finest strength-to-weight ratio, which is crucial for high-speed races. Hence, by using custom exhaust systems, you are investing well in your automobile.

Red Eye Racecars is your go-to brand for carbon fiber for car interiors. You get supreme acceleration and speed in a customized race car. Specializing in providing weightless, high-performing race cars, we turn racers’ dreams into reality, promising structurally sturdy automobiles ready to conquer the track.