It is not accurate to say it is five times the strength. It might be only
twice the strength. The stiffness might be five times however.

A very complex subject and a lot depends on the lay-up. Vance on here
has designed several well known home built kit aircraft using composites.
I recommend Composites Basics by A.C. Marshal. For vacuum bagging, repair
of honey comb structures and heat cure.... Advanced Composites by Cindy
Foreman ISBN 088487 -316-1.

Paul Lamar

 Brian,
You blew me away with that claim on 5 times the strength, I was under the
impression that carbon was twice as strong as E-glass and half the weight -
AS A RULE OF THUMB!
Five times as stiff, I could live with that, however when it reaches it's
failure point it will fail catastrophically, unlike S-glass.

Paul  is correct to say Carbon is a "complex subject" achieving the desired
strength depends on the lay-ups being done under controlled conditions and
it is not as forgiving as e-glass in home use.

Considering the structures being discussed, like cowls - I consider carbon
an ideal material to be used, thin stiff and light.

The Photo's shown were very good work, good attention to detail and
excellent moulds.
My opinion FWIW!
George (down under)

 
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