Fabric is an ideal showcase for the combined performance properties and sleek cosmetics of carbon fiber. But the advantages of carbon fiber apply to unique applications beyond the scope of broad lengths of fabric.
This carbon reinforcement category includes First Quality Carbon Fiber Tapes, Tow, and Biaxial Sleeve. They are primarily chosen for selective reinforcement and wrapping applications that may call for smaller coverage areas, localized reinforcement, or even unique shape, like tubing. All our products are certified and traceable.
Click on the selected styles to view more information and pricing.
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Carbon fiber tape is ideal for selective reinforcement of carbon fiber fabrications, sleeve winding, lap joining,...
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Carbon Fiber Tow is the thread used to weave carbon fiber fabrics. As a standalone product, it can be used to make...
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These braided carbon biaxial sleeves feature the desirable cosmetics of a 2x2 twill pattern. They can be slid over...
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Our chopped carbon fiber is commonly compounded with resins to create an easily molded composite material that is...
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Our Unidirectional Carbon Fiber Sleeves are ideal for tapered, curved or other irregular shapes and feature ultimate...
These carbon fiber selections are made to be used with resin and offer the same great strength-for-low-weight ratios as their fabric counterparts. To fully realize strength properties of carbon, we recommend using these selections with an epoxy resin, like our System #2000 Epoxy.
- Carbon Tapes--Perfect for winding applications, lap joining, and repairing cracked carbon surfaces; feature 3K plain weave cosmetics; must be used with a resin, they have no adhesive.
- Carbon Tow--Add directional reinforcement to fiberglass, Kevlar®, and carbon parts; use with filament winder or #1171-A Air Driven Chopper Gun.
- Carbon Sleeve--Conform to shapes with changing geometries; slide over a mandrel or cylinder; makes the way for repeatable, precise parts.
- Chopped Graphite--Reinforce parts requiring optimized electrical conductivity, high strength, and modulus; recommended for use with epoxy or vinyl ester resin.
Carbon fiber tapes, tow, and sleeves are specialized forms of carbon fiber materials that are used in different applications. Here is a breakdown of each type:
- Carbon Fiber Tapes: Carbon fiber tapes are narrow, flat strips or ribbons made from woven or unidirectional carbon fiber. They are typically lightweight and offer high strength and stiffness along the length of the tape. Carbon fiber tapes are used for various applications, including reinforcing and repairing structures, joining composite parts, and providing additional strength to specific areas.
- Carbon Fiber Tow: Carbon fiber tow refers to a bundle of carbon fibers that are twisted or untwisted together. It is made up of multiple individual carbon fibers, typically ranging from 1,000 to 50,000 fibers per tow. Carbon fiber tow is used as a reinforcement material in composite manufacturing processes. It is often incorporated into woven fabrics, braids, or mats to create composite laminates or structures with high strength-to-weight ratios.
- Carbon Fiber Sleeves: Carbon fiber sleeves are tubular structures made from woven or braided carbon fibers. They provide a protective and reinforcing layer to components like pipes, tubes, cables, or rods. Carbon fiber sleeves are used to enhance the strength, stiffness, and durability of these components while also providing resistance to heat, chemicals, and abrasion.
Each of these carbon fiber forms has its own specific advantages and applications. Here are some key points:
- Carbon fiber tapes offer versatility and ease of application, making them suitable for localized reinforcement, repairs, or bonding applications.
- Carbon fiber tow is commonly used in the production of composite laminates and structures, where its high strength and stiffness contribute to overall performance.
- Carbon fiber sleeves provide a protective layer to components and are often used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and marine, where the combination of strength, lightweight, and resistance to various environmental factors is crucial.
Carbon fiber tapes, tow, and sleeves are utilized in a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, construction, and more. They enable the production of lightweight, strong, and durable components and structures, contributing to advancements in performance and efficiency.
You can place an order here on the website, or call 1.800.838.8984, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday, with questions.