22/12/2000
The allure of carbon fibre is undeniable. Its distinctive weave, lightweight strength, and association with high-performance vehicles make it a sought-after material in the automotive world. But when it comes to Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, what exactly are you getting? Do manufacturers truly use genuine, pure carbon fibre, or is it a composite, a veneer, or perhaps something else entirely? This article delves into the world of carbon fibre in automotive manufacturing, specifically addressing whether real carbon fibre is utilised on OEM parts and exploring the expertise of specialists like C6 Carbon.
Understanding Carbon Fibre in Automotive Manufacturing
Carbon fibre, at its core, is a material composed of extremely thin fibres, about 0.005 to 0.010 mm in diameter, made of carbon atoms. These fibres are incredibly strong and stiff when bonded together with a polymer resin (typically epoxy). This combination creates a composite material that is significantly stronger and lighter than steel or aluminium, making it ideal for performance applications. However, the manufacturing process, the cost of raw materials, and the desired aesthetic can influence how carbon fibre is implemented in automotive parts.
OEM parts, which are those manufactured by the original car maker or by a company on their behalf to the manufacturer's specifications, can utilise carbon fibre in several ways:
- Full Carbon Fibre Construction: In high-performance vehicles, certain structural components or body panels might be manufactured entirely from carbon fibre composite. This is the most expensive and performance-oriented application.
- Carbon Fibre Skins/Veneers: Often, for aesthetic purposes on less performance-focused vehicles, a thin layer of real carbon fibre weave is applied over a more conventional material (like plastic or fibreglass). This provides the distinctive carbon fibre look without the full cost and complexity of a complete composite structure. This is often referred to as 'carbon fibre wrapping' or 'skinning'.
- Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymers (CFRP): This is a broad category where carbon fibres are used to reinforce a polymer matrix. While technically 'real' carbon fibre is used, the final part might not have the visible weave characteristic of aesthetic carbon fibre.
C6 Carbon: Specialists in Real Carbon Fibre
Companies like C6 Carbon specialise in working with real carbon fibre, offering a range of services that highlight the material's versatility and beauty. Their expertise covers several key areas:
Bespoke Carbon Wrapping
C6 Carbon explicitly states that they "use real pure carbon fibre on OEM parts." This is a crucial distinction. When they undertake a carbon fibre wrapping project, they are applying genuine carbon fibre material to existing components. This process involves careful preparation of the OEM part, precise application of the carbon fibre weave, and finishing to ensure a seamless and durable result. Their experience ensures that these wrapped parts fit perfectly, a testament to their understanding of automotive components.
The process often involves:
- Surface Preparation: Ensuring the OEM part is clean, smooth, and ready for adhesion.
- Application: Carefully laying down the carbon fibre weave, often using specialised adhesives and techniques to achieve a flawless finish.
- Resin Infusion/Coating: Applying a clear coat or resin that protects the carbon fibre and provides the desired gloss or matte finish. This layer is critical for durability and aesthetics.
C6 Carbon's ability to work on interior, exterior, and engine bay parts demonstrates the wide applicability of their carbon fibre wrapping services. From dashboard trims and steering wheels to spoilers and engine covers, the aesthetic upgrade is significant.
UV Damaged Carbon Fibre Parts: Renovation and Repair
One of the challenges with carbon fibre, especially when used aesthetically, is its susceptibility to UV degradation. Pure carbon fibre components, particularly those manufactured using vacuum processes without adequate UV protection, can become brittle and discoloured when exposed to prolonged sunlight. C6 Carbon offers a vital service in renovating and repairing these parts.
Their process involves:
- Assessment: Evaluating the extent of UV damage.
- Surface Treatment: Lightly sanding or preparing the damaged surface.
- UV Protective Coating: Applying a high-gloss UV protective coating. This is a crucial step for extending the lifespan and maintaining the appearance of carbon fibre parts that were not originally UV resistant. This coating acts as a shield, preventing further degradation from sunlight.
This service is invaluable for owners of vehicles with carbon fibre elements that have started to show signs of age and sun exposure, allowing them to restore their parts to their former glory.
Repairing Carbon Fibre Parts
Beyond cosmetic repairs and UV protection, C6 Carbon also undertakes the repair of actual breaks or damage in carbon fibre parts. This requires a deep understanding of composite repair techniques, involving:
- Structural Integrity: Ensuring the repair not only looks good but also restores the part's structural integrity.
- Layering: Precisely matching the original weave and layering of carbon fibre to create a seamless and strong repair.
- Finishing: Applying resin and clear coats to blend the repaired area perfectly with the surrounding material.
The requirement for detailed pictures for quoting highlights the bespoke nature of these repairs. Each break is unique, and a thorough understanding of the damage is necessary to provide an accurate quote and plan the repair effectively.
Coloured Carbon Fibre: Adding a Personal Touch
For those seeking a unique aesthetic, C6 Carbon offers the option of coloured carbon fibre. This is achieved by incorporating coloured polyester yarn into the carbon fibre weave during the manufacturing or application process. This allows for subtle yet striking customisation:
Available Colours and Mixes:
| Colour/Mix | Description |
|---|---|
| Red | Pure red yarn integrated into the weave. |
| Blue | Pure blue yarn integrated into the weave. |
| Green | Pure green yarn integrated into the weave. |
| All Silver | A silver-coloured yarn providing a distinct metallic sheen. |
| Carbon (Black) and Kevlar (Light Yellow) Mix | A combination of traditional black carbon fibre and yellow Kevlar for a striking visual contrast. |
| Pure Kevlar (Light Yellow) | A weave predominantly featuring Kevlar, known for its exceptional impact resistance and distinctive light yellow colour. |
| 2 x 2 Twill | This refers to the specific pattern of the carbon fibre weave itself, offering a classic and popular aesthetic. |
These options allow car enthusiasts to personalise their vehicles, adding distinctive accents that reflect their individual style. The ability to incorporate colour without compromising the structural properties of the carbon fibre is a testament to the advanced techniques employed by specialists like C6 Carbon.
Is Real Carbon Fibre Used on All OEM Parts?
It's important to clarify that not all parts labelled or appearing to be carbon fibre on OEM vehicles are necessarily made from a full carbon fibre composite. Many manufacturers use carbon fibre effect finishes, which involve hydro-dipping or applying a printed film to plastic parts to mimic the look of carbon fibre. This is a cost-effective way to achieve the aesthetic without the material and manufacturing costs associated with genuine carbon fibre.
However, for high-performance models or specific premium options, genuine carbon fibre is indeed used. This can range from structural components like chassis elements and monocoques to body panels such as bonnets, roofs, spoilers, and aerodynamic elements. In these cases, the benefits of reduced weight and increased stiffness are paramount.
When a manufacturer specifies a carbon fibre part, it's crucial to understand whether it's a structural component made of composite materials or an aesthetic application. Specialists like C6 Carbon focus on the latter, offering the authentic carbon fibre experience through wrapping and enhancement of existing OEM parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do all car manufacturers use real carbon fibre on their performance models?
A1: While many high-performance models incorporate genuine carbon fibre for weight saving and stiffness, some may still use carbon fibre effect finishes for certain aesthetic elements to manage costs. It's best to check the specific vehicle's specifications.
Q2: What is the difference between carbon fibre wrapping and a full carbon fibre part?
A2: A full carbon fibre part is constructed entirely from carbon fibre composite materials. Carbon fibre wrapping involves applying a thin layer of real carbon fibre weave over an existing part, typically made of plastic or metal, for aesthetic enhancement.
Q3: Can carbon fibre parts fade or degrade?
A3: Yes, carbon fibre can degrade if not protected from UV exposure. The resin and clear coat used can become brittle and discoloured. Services like those offered by C6 Carbon can re-coat parts with UV protection to prevent this.
Q4: Is carbon fibre wrapping as strong as a full carbon fibre part?
A4: Carbon fibre wrapping is primarily an aesthetic upgrade. While the carbon fibre itself is strong, the overall strength of the part is determined by the underlying material and the quality of the wrapping process. It does not typically add structural strength in the way a full composite part would.
Q5: How do I get a quote for carbon fibre work from C6 Carbon?
A5: You can send C6 Carbon a picture of the part or parts you wish to have wrapped or repaired. They will then be able to provide you with a quote for the work involved.
Conclusion
The question of whether real carbon fibre is used on OEM parts is nuanced. For many aesthetic applications, manufacturers may opt for convincing carbon fibre effect finishes. However, for genuine performance and premium appeal, authentic carbon fibre is employed, either in full composite structures or as a high-quality skin applied to existing components. Specialists like C6 Carbon play a vital role in bringing the unmistakable look and feel of real carbon fibre to a wider range of automotive parts, offering expert wrapping, crucial UV protection, and skilled repairs, allowing enthusiasts to customise and maintain their vehicles with the highest quality materials.
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