Fibre Type

1. Carbon Fibre (CF)

 

Composition

Carbon fibres are made from precursor materials (such as polyacrylonitrile or pitch) that are heated and carbonised.

 

Properties

  • Exceptionally high tensile strength: CF can withstand significant loads without breaking.
  • Low density: lightweight, contributing to fuel efficiency.
  • High stiffness: Provides structural integrity.
  • Excellent fatigue resistance is vital for long-term durability.

 

Applications

  • Primary Structures: Wings, fuselage, tail sections, and landing gear components.
  • Interior Components: Seats, overhead bins, and floor panels.

 

Challenges

  • Cost: Production of carbon fibre composites is expensive.
  • Impact Sensitivity: susceptible to damage from impacts.

 

 

2. Glass Fibre (GF)

 

Composition

Glass fibres are made from molten glass that is drawn into thin strands.

 

Properties

  • Moderate tensile strength: adequate for non-structural parts.
  • Lower stiffness compared to carbon fibres.
  • Good electrical insulation properties.

 

Applications

  • Fairings: exterior coverings for streamlined aerodynamics.
  • Interior Panels: Cabin walls, ceilings, and partitions.
  • Secondary Structures: non-critical components.

 

Limitations

Moisture Absorption: Glass fibres can absorb water over time. Aramid fibre.

 

 

3. Aramid Fibre (AF) (e.g., Kevlar)

 

Composition

Aramid fibres are synthetic polymers with repeating aromatic units.

 

Properties

  • High impact resistance: used in protective applications.
  • Excellent strength-to-weight ratio.
  • Lightweight.

 

Applications

  • Protective panels: bulletproof vests, cockpit doors.
  • Aircraft armour: critical areas requiring impact resistance.

 

Drawbacks

Lower Stiffness: Not as rigid as carbon fibres.

 

 

4. Hybrid Composites

  • Combine different fibre types (e.g., carbon and glass) to optimise properties.
  • The product is tailored for specific requirements (e.g., stiffness in one direction, toughness in another).

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