Carbon fiber has become a popular material in modern automotive modifications due to its lightweight, high strength, and unique texture. Depending on the application, different types and weights of carbon fiber fabrics are selected. This article provides an overview of common carbon fiber fabric types and their applications in automotive modifications, helping with material selection and procurement.
Plain Weave Carbon Fiber Fabric: Fibers interlaced in a “checkerboard” pattern, smooth surface, clear texture. Applications: Front lips, rear lips, side skirts. Weight: 200–300 g/m².
Twill Weave Carbon Fiber Fabric: Diagonal fiber pattern, wavy surface, more three-dimensional. Applications: Dashboard, interior panels, door panels, hood, roof, mirror covers. Weight: 200–600 g/m².
3K/6K/12K Woven Carbon Fiber Fabric: High strength, multi-directional load. Applications: Roll cages, chassis reinforcement, lightweight wheels. Weight: 300–600 g/m².
Unidirectional (UD) Carbon Fiber Fabric: Fibers aligned in one direction, concentrated strength. Applications: Spoilers, diffusers, seat brackets. Weight: 200–600 g/m².
3D Woven Carbon Fiber Fabric: Three-dimensional weave, high structural strength. Applications: Racing chassis, drivetrain covers. Weight: 400–800 g/m².
Prepreg Glossy Carbon Fiber Fabric: Glossy surface for decorative purposes. Applications: Roof, interior decorative panels. Weight: 200–300 g/m².
| Car Part | Fabric Type | Typical Weight (g/m²) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front/Rear Lips, Side Skirts | Plain Weave | 200–300 | For appearance, limited weight reduction |
| Dashboard, Interior Panels, Door Panels | Twill Weave | 200–300 | Good texture, visually appealing |
| Hood, Roof, Mirror Covers | Twill Weave | 300–600 | Can be layered for added strength |
| Spoilers, Diffusers, Functional Lightweight Parts | UD | 200–600 | Withstands unidirectional tension or torque |
| Roll Cage, Chassis Reinforcement | 3K/6K/12K Woven | 300–600 | Multi-directional load-bearing structural parts |
| Racing Chassis, High-Performance Components | 3D Woven | 400–800 | High-strength multi-layer weave |
| Decorative Glossy Parts (Roof, Panels) | Prepreg Glossy | 200–300 | For visual effect |
Visual Decoration: Plain or Twill, 200–300 g/m².
Load-Bearing Parts: UD, 3K/6K/12K, or 3D Woven, 300–800 g/m², multi-layered if necessary.
Balance Lightweight and Cost: Combine Twill and UD, avoid excessive thickness.
