Advantages And Disadvantages Of Carbon Fiber

 ADVANTAGES

Lightweight - carbon fiber is a low density material with a very high strength to weight ratio

High tensile strength - one of the strongest of all commercial reinforcing fibers when it comes to tension, carbon fiber is very difficult to stretch or bend

Low thermal expansion – Carbon fiber will expand or contract much less in hot or cold conditions than materials like steel and aluminum

Exceptional durability - carbon fiber has superior fatigue properties compared to metal, which means that carbon fiber components will not wear out as quickly under the stress of constant use

Corrosion Resistance – When made with the appropriate resins, carbon fiber is one of the most corrosion resistant materials available

Radiolucency – Carbon fiber is transparent to radiation and invisible in X-rays, making it valuable for use in medical equipment and facilities

Electrical conductivity - carbon fiber composites are an excellent conductor of electricity

UV resistant - carbon fiber can be UV resistant with the use of the right resins

DISADVANTAGES

Carbon fiber cracks or breaks when compressed, pushed beyond its strength capabilities, or exposed to high impact. It will crack if hit by a hammer. Machining and holes can also create weak areas that can increase your chance of breaking.

Relative Cost - Carbon fiber is a high quality material with a price to match. Although prices have fallen significantly in the last five years, demand has not increased enough to substantially increase supply. As a result, prices will likely remain the same for the foreseeable future.