What are the differences between glass fibers and carbon fibers?
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There are several factors to consider when choosing between glass and carbon fibers. For composite manufacturing choosing the right fiber for a composite part is a big part of the design process.
Cost
Glass fibers are commonly about ten times cheaper than carbon fibers. This makes them more feasible for low strength applications. That is why fiberglass polyester composites are one of the most prevalent composites in the industry thanks to their low cost.
Tensile Strength
Carbon fibres have better tensile strength and specific tensile tensile strength than glass fibres. For parts with high tensile strength requirements, carbon fibres are the preferred fiber reinforcement.
Stiffness
Similar to tensile strength carbon fibres have higher specific stiffness. Thus, for applications that require high specific stiffness carbon fibers are chosen as fiber reinforcement.
Elongation
Elongation at break of carbon fibers is approximately one-third that of glass fibers.
Density
Density of carbon fibers is less than glass fibers, so for application where weight is an important factor carbon fibers offer a better reinforcement.
RF Transparency
Fiberglass is RF transparent that is why for communication industry fiberglass is preferred over carbon fibers.
Corrosion and Chemical Resistance
Fiberglass offers a better protection against galvanic corrosion. Fiberglass has better chemical resistance as well.
Thermal Conductivity
Thermal conductivity of carbon fiber is significantly higher than that of fiberglass.