Carbon Fiber Material Selection Process

LeapTech Composites has the experience and knowledge to support the non-metallic material selection process. Material selection is a fundamental component of product design. All design factors, loads, environment (temperature, moisture, fluids), manufacture, durability, cost and in-service maintenance are accounted for in the selection of materials. Product load identification starts the non-material selection process. The magnitude of loads defines the use of continuous fiber, non-continuous fiber, or non-fibrous products. The loading magnitude and direction also defines fiber type. The environmental effects are accounted for in the selection of the matrix material, examples of specific matrix materials; thermoset, thermoplastic, ceramic, metallic or carbon.

LeapTech Composites has expertise in all areas of matrix selection. The material selection process accounts for the manufacturing process. LeapTech Composites believes that integration of manufacturing process and material selection is the key to a successful product. LeapTech Composites has many years of experience designing non-metallic components to perform in extreme environments, (high temperatures, hot oil, cryogenic temperature, high and low cycle fatigue, creep, and thermal oxidation). Long term durability and aging in an extreme or harsh environment is a fundamental material selection issue. Product cost is built into the part material selection process.

LeapTech Composites believes that minimum product cost is a fundamental component of material selection. In-service maintenance of non-metallic products is also an integral part of material selection process. Identification of long term product maintenance issues is a fundamental part of the material selection process. LeapTech Composites has observed that non-metallic products require similar maintenance programs as metallic products in extreme environments.