What is carbon fiber?
Carbon Fiber is comprised primarily of carbon atoms which is lighter than metal atoms making a carbon fiber part much lighter than a metal part. Carbon fiber is in the same material group with the same properties as diamonds. As you probably know, diamonds are the hardest and strongest material in the world. Carbon fibers have a 2D mesh structure with entwined carbon fibers making it incredibly durable. While the carbon fiber mesh provides the strength, the remaining material in carbon fiber is a lightweight resin which is considerably lighter than metal.
Why is carbon fiber parts more expensive?
Carbon fiber is more expensive for three primary reasons:
1. The primary raw materials used to manufacture carbon fiber are very expensive to procure.
2. The construction of carbon fiber is complex and require several materials to product the final product.
3. The manufacturing of carbon fiber is labor intensive and requires a skilled composite technician to create.
How can I tell the quality of carbon fiber products?
1. Is the product I am purchase made from multiple sheets of carbon fiber or one continuous piece?
2. Is the finish on the product a clear coat or gelcoat?
3. Is the carbon fiber integrated into the mold when manufactured or is it wrapped around the skeleton?