So Which Weave Pattern Makes The Strongest Fabric?

Contrary to popular belief, a 1×1 or plain weave is actually weaker than a 2×2 or 4 bunch satin weave (4×4). This is because when carbon fibers are subjected to tension or tension, the fibers want to straighten, but cannot due to the repetition of the pattern. Each fiber is forced above and below each other. So this tension will eventually cut the fabric apart, giving a 2×2 fabric a higher tensile strength than a plain weave.

Now that you have an idea of the types of carbon fiber weaves, let's discuss the main types of carbon fiber cloth. In the automotive industry, there are two popular types of fabrics, wet prepregs and intervention prepregs.

1. Wet prepreg

Wet prepreg is the most popular method for carbon fiber front lip spoilers, rear diffusers and trunks as it tends to be easier to manufacture. All that is required is a precisely measured amount of resin or epoxy and poured onto the fabric to "wet" the fabric. This type of carbon can either be cured at room temperature or baked like most.

RW-Carbon Fiber-Front Lip-Spoiler-BMW-F30-3-Series-Wet-Prepreg-Carbon

BMW F30/F31 M Sport BMW Performance Style front lip spoiler wet pre-impregnated carbon cloth

2. Intervention Impregnation

Intervention impregnated cloths or other cloths called "dry carbon" are very similar to wet prepreg cloths in that they both use resin or epoxy to adhere the fabric. Unlike wet plate, however, the epoxy used for this cloth type has drying properties and is impregnated into the cloth. This step ensures that there is no excess epoxy, giving it a "dry" look (most of our products are then coated with a clear coat to protect the braid). This method requires further steps; each layer needs to be "squeezed" and the amount of resin used has to be very precise, otherwise the item will become too sticky. Once the aerospace part is formed, it needs to be baked at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for several hours. This is why dry carbon parts and accessories tend to be more expensive compared to wet carbon cloth.