Did you know the composites industry was worth over $100 billion to the U.S. economy as of 2022? With a number like that, you can clearly see that this industry has grown from the fringes to everyday use.
If you aren’t using composite technology in your production line yet, you’ll want to switch over. Composite technology provides several advantages over other forms of production.
Are you thinking of creating a composite part? Know which type of composites you should use. If not, we have a guide for you. Read what is below to learn which trends in composite technology to follow.
What Types of Composite Material is Used in Composite Technology?
What has made composites popular is that there are so many trending materials. Some of these materials you’ve probably heard of before, such as carbon fiber. Others, like aramid fibers, might not be so familiar. These materials vary by the following characteristics:
- Tensile strength
- Stiffness
- Weight
- Durability over time and temperature
Because of those characteristics and the different types available, many industries, such as military, aerospace, and orthopedics, now use them.
Growth of Lightweight Materials
In the past, lightweight materials were limited because they lacked the strength for many uses. Advanced materials like carbon fiber-reinforced polymers are changing this.
These materials are significantly lighter than aluminum or metal alloys and still provide good strength. That combination makes lightweight composites popular in technologies where fuel and energy efficiency are important, such as the automotive industry.
Carbon Fiber Use in Advanced Technology
With the growth of automation, the robotics industry is surging once again. Traditionally, robots have been constructed from metals but advances in carbon fiber have made it more advantageous.
While some metals are still stronger, advances in development have increased carbon fiber’s strength. Additionally, carbon fiber materials are significantly more resistant to corrosion, lighter, and more resistant to heat.
It isn’t just robotics that is embracing carbon fiber. Some other industries bringing it in include aviation and medical equipment.
Advancements in Composite Molding and Manufacturing Methods
Composite technology is growing because the methods used for shaping materials have evolved significantly. Many composites are popular because they can be shaped through three major molding processes: open molding, closed molding, and cast polymer molding.
Even outside of molding, there are evolving composite manufacturing techniques. These techniques include filament winding, tape laying, and protrusion. Most of these techniques are designed to increase the strength of an object.
The Future of Composite Materials
The focus on eco-friendly materials and shortages caused during the pandemic expedited the reliance on composite materials. Composites don’t produce the harmful by-products of traditional materials, and their supply is greater. The changes made during the pandemic were out of necessity, but these positives have led to permanent changes.
Are You Ready for Composite Technology?
Now that you know about the trends in composite technology, what are you waiting for? These materials are lightweight, applicable to many manufacturing methods, and used in advanced technology. The future is bright, as changes in many industries become permanent.
If you live in the Comer, Georgia, area and would like to get started with composite technology, contact us to get started. We offer a complete solution to our customers, from design and engineering to customized tooling!
