Virgin Carbon Fiber Chopped Tow 12mm (1/2")

This chopped carbon fiber tow is made from 100% virgin carbon fiber tow, cut (or chopped) to consistent length of 12mm (1/2"). This specification of chopped tow is often used as reinforcement in compression molded or injection molded carbon fiber reinforced components, often referred to as forged carbon fiber.

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 fiber it is sold by weight and is available in 150g, 750g and 1.5kg (4.42oz, 26.46oz and 53oz) pack sizes. Please choose the pack size you require from the drop-down menu at the top of the page.

Processing

Chopped tow carbon fiber 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 fiberglass. This is well suited to carbon fiber mold making.

Resin Infusion: Chopped tow carbon fiber 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 fiber can be loaded into a closed mold 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 moldings.

Prepreg: Chopped tow carbon fiber is not currently available or usable for prepreg processing.

Suitable Applications

As a high performance, environmentally friendly recycled material chopped tow carbon fiber is suitable for a wide range of application including:

• Structural resin infused and RTM parts
• High temperature carbon fiber molds
• 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.