This chopped carbon fibre tow is made from 100% virgin carbon fibre tow, cut (or chopped) to consistent length of 12mm. This specification of chopped tow is often used as reinforcement in compression moulded or injection moulded carbon fibre reinforced components, often referred to as forged carbon fibre.
Being a virgin material made from new, consistent feed-stock, the material is extremely consistent and does not have the irregularities or inclusions characteristic of recycled chopped tow. For those wishing to create a cosmetic 'forged carbon' appearance, this consistency could be regarded an advantage or disadvantage, depending on the type of forged carbon appearance you want to create.
Units of sale
This chopped tow carbon fibre it is sold by weight and is available in 150g, 750g and 1.5kg pack sizes. Please choose the pack size you require from the drop-down menu at the top of the page.
Processing
Chopped tow carbon fibre is compatible with all common resin systems including epoxy, vinylester and polyester.
Hand laminating: Chopped tow carbon is often used in hand laminating where its short strand nature allows is to conform into complex geometries with reduced bridging behaving in a similar fashion to chopped strand fibreglass. This is well suited to carbon fibre mould making.
Resin Infusion: Chopped tow carbon fibre can be used in a resin infusion it offers good wetting out and can be particularly useful for ‘stuffing’ intricate details with solid material that may otherwise bridge and become resin rich.
RTM: Chopped tow carbon fibre can be loaded into a closed mould and have the resin matrix injected in, this process is where the term 'forged carbon' originated and can be used to produce inexpensive yet reasonably high-performance mouldings.
Prepreg: Chopped tow carbon fibre is not currently available or usable for prepreg processing.
Suitable Applications
As a high performance, environmentally friendly recycled material chopped tow carbon fibre is suitable for a wide range of application including:
- Structural resin infused and RTM parts
- High temperature carbon fibre moulds
- Filleting and filling in complex infusions
- Casting resin reinforcement
Safety
This product is made up of chopped strands and particles that are small and will become airborne when the material is scooped, moved or mixed. Always wear protective gloves and a dust mask when handling this product in its raw state.
