History of Forged Carbon Fiber
Forged carbon fiber, also known as forged composite, is a relatively new material that was invented in the mid-2000s by Italian automobile manufacturer Lamborghini. The company was looking for a way to reduce the cost of composite parts and increase production rates. One of their goals was to replace forged aluminum suspension control arms with carbon fiber suspension control arms. To achieve this, Lamborghini partnered with Callaway Golf Company and the University of Washington to develop a material that was more resistant to fatigue and moisture, had a lower elasticity modulus than aluminum, and was more adaptable to suit product designers’ needs.
How Forged Carbon Fiber is Made
Forged carbon fiber is made using a unique manufacturing process that involves using a paste of fibers mixed with a resin to be squeezed out into various forms. Unlike traditional carbon fiber sheets, this material does not require careful cutting and precise laying into molds. Once the right mass has been cut and placed into a hot press mold, it is squeezed under high pressure, heated, and voila! — You have an object that is as light and stiff as a traditionally created carbon fiber object; only this one is produced in minutes instead of hours.
Applications of Forged Carbon Fiber
Forged carbon fiber is used in a variety of applications, including automotive, aerospace, and sporting goods. Lamborghini was the first company to use forged carbon fiber in their vehicles, but other car manufacturers have since followed suit. Forged carbon fiber is also used in the aerospace industry to create lightweight and strong components for aircraft. In the sporting goods industry, forged carbon fiber is used to create high-performance golf clubs, bicycles, and tennis rackets.
Benefits of Forged Carbon Fiber
Forged carbon fiber has several benefits over traditional carbon fiber. First, it is more cost-effective to produce than traditional carbon fiber. Second, it has a more distinct, visual pattern that makes it more appealing for jewelry and decor. Third, it is more adaptable to suit product designers’ needs. Fourth, it is more resistant to fatigue and moisture than traditional carbon fiber. Finally, it has a lower elasticity modulus than aluminum, which makes it ideal for use in suspension control arms.
Limitations of Forged Carbon Fiber
While forged carbon fiber has many benefits, it also has some limitations. First, it is not as strong as traditional carbon fiber. Second, it is not as widely available as traditional carbon fiber. Third, it is not as heat-resistant as traditional carbon fiber. Finally, it is not as well-suited for use in high-temperature applications.
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