At present, whether considering performance or environmental protection, lightweighting in automotive mold production has become an inevitable trend. Carbon fiber composite material is the best choice for automotive lightweighting; for example, Formula racing car bodies are famously made entirely of carbon fiber composites. With technological advancements, this material is gradually becoming popularized and is being applied to ordinary passenger vehicles. Domestically, Kangde Composite Material Co., Ltd., in collaboration with German researchers, is dedicated to the R&D and production of this technology and has achieved significant results.
I. Automotive Lightweighting is Irresistible
The pursuit of reducing vehicle weight is ongoing. Lighter vehicles not only improve performance but also meet the demands for energy saving and environmental protection. If all steel components of a current car were replaced with carbon fiber composites, the vehicle body weight could be reduced by 40-50%, significantly enhancing acceleration and steering performance. Furthermore, China's current motor vehicle pollutant emissions exceed 45 million tons. Developing lightweight vehicles is an urgent requirement for achieving a low-carbon economy. Data shows that for every 10% reduction in vehicle weight, fuel consumption can be saved by 7%. Currently, steel materials account for about 3/4 of the vehicle body weight. If all steel parts were replaced with carbon fiber composites, the vehicle weight could be reduced by 300kg, fuel efficiency would increase by 36%, and CO2 emissions could be cut by 17%. A weight reduction of 20-30% can reduce CO2 emissions by 0.5 tons per vehicle per year, which not only reduces operating costs but is also more eco-friendly.
II. Carbon Fiber Composite Material is the Inevitable Choice
Carbon fiber is produced from chemical fibers and petroleum through special processes. In addition to general carbon material properties like high temperature resistance, friction resistance, conductivity, and thermal conductivity, it possesses higher strength, lighter weight, and better corrosion resistance. Its density is less than 1/4 of steel, yet its tensile strength is 7 to 9 times that of steel, and its tensile elasticity is also higher. In high-temperature inert environments above 2000°C, it is one of the few substances whose strength does not decrease. It does not dissolve or swell in organic solvents, acids, or alkalis, showing outstanding corrosion resistance. Moreover, its shape is soft and can be processed into various fabrics. From a usage perspective, carbon fiber has no issues with corrosion or rust and is more durable than ordinary metals. Under extreme climatic conditions, the properties of carbon fiber remain virtually unchanged. Using carbon fiber to manufacture vehicle bodies can also eliminate high-cost and tedious painting processes. It is no wonder people say carbon fiber is the most perfect material currently known for reducing vehicle weight.
III. Technical Development of Carbon Fiber Composites Receives Significant Attention
Two key technologies of carbon fiber composites have attracted the attention of OEM manufacturers. First is modular production; carbon fiber composites have excellent plasticity and can be processed into various parts or integrated into a single whole structure. For example, an automobile seat requires welding 50 to 60 parts, but if carbon fiber composite is used, it can be processed into a single molded piece, which not only shortens processing time and reduces costs but also guarantees precision. Second is the application of Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) technology, which can significantly increase the part molding speed, shortening the traditional molding time from several days to a few minutes, with the advantages of high efficiency, low cost, and environmental friendliness. Companies like BMW, Audi, and Teijin have already tested or applied this technology. Adopting newer molding technologies allows carbon fiber products to meet Class-A surface requirements, expanding the application scope of carbon fiber composites in automobiles.
Consequently, as automotive lightweighting has become a trend, the application of carbon fiber composite technology provides the best choice for lightweighting and has become an inevitable path for transformation. Kangde Composite is a leader in this field, providing the most professional integrated carbon fiber lightweight solutions for the automotive industry.