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Continental Structural Plastics perfects carbon fiber RTM process, launches production programs

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Continental Structural Plastics (CSP) has fine-tuned its carbon fiber RTM (resin transfer molding) (CF-RTM) process to the point that a premium automaker will be using the technology for closures on future vehicle platforms. We have been targeting a 3-minute cycle time using 100 percent recycled carbon fiber.

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First prototype carbon fiber chassis delivered from new £50M McLaren Automotive innovation and manufacturing center

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The first prototype carbon fiber MonoCell, the tub that forms the main structure of McLaren’s cars, has been shipped from the company’s new £50-million (US$66-million) innovation and production center in Yorkshire to the McLaren Production center (MPC) in Woking, Surrey. All McLaren’s sportscars and supercars will be hybrid by 2024.

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Borealis Fibremod technology available for N American market; glass and carbon fiber-reinforced polypropylene

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Borealis, a supplier of polyolefin plastic materials for engineering applications in the automotive industry, announced the availability of Fibremod, its innovative carbon and glass fiber-reinforced polypropylene (PP) technology, for the North American automotive market. Fibremod PP short glass fiber (SGF).

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Magna and Ford developing prototype carbon fiber composite subframe; mass reduction of 34%

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in cooperation with Ford Motor Company, developed a prototype carbon fiber composite subframe which reduces mass by 34% compared to making a stamped steel equivalent. The subframe is a key part of a vehicle’s structure, typically providing a place to attach the engine and wheels while also contributing rigidity and crash management.

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PNNL leads team to accelerate development of affordable carbon fiber composites

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Researchers at the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, along with experts from industry and academia, have developed predictive engineering tools for designing new, economical, and lightweight automotive composites. This approach should speed the development of more economical carbon fiber materials.

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Magna to produce carbon fiber composite body panels

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Magna Exteriors, an operating unit of Magna International, has been awarded new business to supply painted automotive body panels made from carbon fiber composite material for two 2016 model-year vehicles. This effort followed the successful collaboration between Magna and Zoltek to develop CFS-Z carbon fiber sheet molding compound.

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3D printing with high-performance carbon fiber

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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) researchers have become the first to 3D-print aerospace-grade carbon fiber composites, opening the door to greater control and optimization of the lightweight, yet stronger than steel material. Click to enlarge. —fluid analyst Yuliya Kanarska.