You may not know it, but there are many things we take for granted as an advanced society. For instance, consider the concrete that makes up our streets, the bricks that hold together our buildings, and the carbon fiber frames of your bike. These are all made possible because of composite engineering.
Thanks to the work of composite engineers, we have a lightweight material that’s even stronger than steel: carbon fiber. It isn’t just used to make bike frames; you can make almost anything using carbon fiber. Carbon fiber engineers can make car components, propeller blades, and more.
Need something built? You want only the highest quality materials. So, keep reading to learn more about composite manufacturing and why you should be using carbon fiber.
The Possibilities of Composite Engineering
An engineer makes a composite by surrounding the fibers of a stronger material with weaker material. In the process, they call the weaker material the matrix and reinforcement for the stronger material.
Composites exist in nature. For example, wood is a composite. Wood consists of a weak substance called lignin and strong fibers of cellulose. This combination is what gives trees strength and resilience.
Like wood, composites are light and sturdy. These aren’t the only properties that make them such great materials. For example, engineers choose the properties the finished composite has by manipulating the manufacturing process.
For example, mixing ceramic with other materials results in a heat-resistant composite. This is ideal for materials exposed to high temperatures.
Carbon Fiber: Your Luxury Building Material
If you’re in need of high-performing building material, look no further. Carbon fiber is light, durable, and small in size without sacrificing strength. It’s applied to any number of products, and new uses are being discovered every day.
The carbon fiber manufacturing process is part chemical, part mechanical. Steps include stabilizing, carbonizing, and surface treatment. Carbon fiber engineering is precise, giving engineers much control during the manufacturing process.
The engineering and manufacturing of carbon fiber have advanced thanks to aerospace industries. There is high demand for lightweight and durable materials to use for air and spacecraft. Carbon fiber has also helped the medical industry improve on health-related devices and equipment to make them more inclusive and user-friendly.
Carbon fiber is versatile and customizable to your needs. A lot of labor goes into its manufacturing process. These properties combined make carbon fiber a true luxury building material.
SMI: Leaders in Carbon Fiber Production
Now that you know more about composite engineering and the benefits of using carbon fiber, you are well on your way to making the best product possible.
Need a composite manufacturer? SMI has your back.
Our products are made in-house, which is not common in the industry. Therefore, making our products in-house allows us to provide exceptional quality control. You can rely on SMI Composites for your composite manufacturing needs.
So, contact us or request a quote online!