What Is a CFRP Pipe?
A CFRP pipe is a tubular pipe made of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic. Resin is reinforced with carbon fiber, known for its high specific strength and inelastic modulus, making CFRP ideal for use in space development and aircraft parts.
Other reinforced plastics, such as FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastics) and GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastics), have different physical properties due to the varying composition and content of carbon fiber.
- FRP: Increases strength by adding glass fiber to plastic.
- GFRP: Comprises glass fibers solidified with resins like vinylester and epoxy, and is more affordable than other reinforced plastics.
Uses of CFRP Pipes
CFRP pipes are versatile and used in applications such as antennas, fences, posts, shafts, fishing rods, and prosthetic legs. They are characterized by a low thermal expansion coefficient, high specific rigidity, and excellent vibration-damping properties. CFRP is also used in astronomical telescopes, LCD panel transfer hands, parallel link robots, and battery cases for artificial satellites due to its thermal conductivity.
Additionally, its non-magnetic, corrosion-resistant, and conductive properties make it suitable for linear motor cases, earthquake-resistant materials, industrial tanks, and anti-static components.
Principle of CFRP Pipes
CFRP pipes are manufactured primarily through filament winding (FW) and sheet winding (SW) processes. In FW, carbon fiber rovings are impregnated with resin and wrapped around a mandrel. In SW, prepreg sheets of carbon fiber are similarly used. The unique properties of carbon fibers necessitate specific material design in CFRP manufacturing, using mirror-symmetric lamination to avoid thermal distortion.
Types of CFRP
CFRP, made by molding carbon fiber with resin, is classified into thermosetting CFRP (CFRTS) and thermoplastic CFRP (CFRTP). Thermosetting CFRP is formed through the RTM process, while thermoplastic CFRP uses materials like polypropylene and can be molded by pressing or injection molding. This versatility in base materials extends to other thermoplastic resins like PMMA, 6-nylon (PA6), PA66, PC, PPS, and PEEK, and thermosetting resins like EP.
CFRP Characteristics
CFRP is recognized for its chemical resistance, fatigue resistance, abrasion resistance, heat resistance, and high specific modulus and strength. Comparatively lightweight, it is used in a range of fields including space, aviation, sports, and transportation, and has a high X-ray transmittance, making it suitable for X-ray equipment.