Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-01-01 Origin: Site
With the widespread application of carbon fiber materials in aerospace, new energy vehicles, rail transit, sports equipment, industrial manufacturing, and other fields, carbon fiber sheets, as one of its typical forms, are increasingly being used in various lightweight, high-strength structural components. The processing technology for semi-finished carbon fiber sheets directly affects the performance, precision, and quality stability of the final product. This article systematically explains the main processing methods for semi-finished carbon fiber sheets, aiming to provide practical technical references for businesses and individuals.
To purchase or wholesale high-quality carbon fiber materials, please contact Revolve CF, a carbon fiber material supplier, at HarveyXu@revolve-cf.com or https://www.revolve-cf.com.
Before processing semi-finished carbon fiber sheets, the first task is to confirm the specifications and ratio of the carbon fiber cloth and matrix resin. Different performance requirements (such as tensile strength, heat resistance, and flexural rigidity) dictate different carbon fiber fabric types (3K, 6K, 12K, etc.) and resin systems (epoxy, phenolic, BMI, etc.). High-quality carbon fiber material suppliers, such as Revolve CF, offer professional custom formulation services.
Semi-finished carbon fiber sheets are typically initially formed using methods such as pressing, autoclaving, or RTM (resin transfer molding). Process parameters (temperature, pressure, and dwell time) during this stage must be strictly controlled; otherwise, they will directly impact the stability of subsequent processing.
CNC machining is currently the most mainstream method for processing carbon fiber sheets, primarily suitable for the manufacture of high-precision structural parts. Because carbon fiber is a composite material with strong anisotropy and high rigidity, diamond-coated or tungsten carbide cutting tools, along with appropriate coolant, are required during processing to reduce the risk of delamination or edge tearing.
Waterjet cutting uses high-pressure water (often with abrasives) to precisely cut carbon fiber sheets. Its advantages include no heat-affected zone (HAZ) and low cracking and ablation, making it ideal for processing complex patterns or unusual shapes. Its disadvantage is relatively low efficiency, making it suitable for high-value, complex-shaped parts.
Laser cutting is suitable for thin carbon fiber sheets (generally less than 3mm). Because the high temperatures generated by the laser can easily cause edge ablation or pyrolysis, appropriate laser wavelength and pulse control are required, along with an air extraction system to remove dust and fumes. This technology is often used for mixed processing of carbon fiber and other lightweight composite materials.
In practical applications, many carbon fiber structural parts require precise drilling and threading. Because carbon fiber is prone to delamination and is highly abrasive, it is recommended to use a low feed rate, high RPM, and diamond-coated drill bits for drilling. If necessary, a combination of laser pre-drilling and mechanical hole enlargement can improve quality.
Delamination is one of the most common defects in carbon fiber processing. Its main causes are excessive cutting forces, blunt tools, or improper feed angles. This problem can be reduced by optimizing tool parameters and feed paths, as well as using delamination inhibitors.
When cutting with a machine or laser, burrs and burnt edges often appear on the edges of the sheet. Post-processing techniques such as sanding, blasting, or edge encapsulation can be used to improve aesthetics and precision.
In the manufacturing of carbon fiber structural parts, dimensional tolerance control is critical to ensuring functional performance. High-precision CNC systems, stable fixtures, and a temperature-controlled processing environment are essential for ensuring dimensional consistency.
With the increasing demands for lightweight, strength, and safety in new energy vehicles, demand for structural components such as carbon fiber battery trays, chassis reinforcements, and door inner panels has surged. The initial and secondary processing of semi-finished carbon fiber sheets in these parts plays a key role in structural strength and cost control.
In aerospace and UAV structures, carbon fiber components are increasingly adopting modular structures, making mass production a necessity. Improving the processing accuracy of large-scale sheets while ensuring lightweighting is a challenge faced by both carbon fiber material suppliers and equipment manufacturers.
Products such as carbon fiber bone plates, surgical tools, cycling frames, and badminton rackets are increasingly being processed using customized semi-finished sheets. The demand for high-frequency, small-batch custom processing is driving the development of carbon fiber processing methods towards automation, CNC, and flexible manufacturing.
High-quality carbon fiber sheets are the foundation for high-quality processing and stable product performance. Selecting a carbon fiber material supplier with R&D, production, and service capabilities is crucial to a company's competitiveness in the industry.
Revolve CF, a professional manufacturer specializing in the research, development, production, and sales of carbon fiber materials and release materials, offers a comprehensive product solution encompassing prepregs, carbon fiber sheets, carbon fiber tubes, and structural components, and supports custom processing services. For purchase or wholesale, please contact us via the following methods:
Email: HarveyXu@revolve-cf.com
Official Website: https://www.revolve-cf.com
Processing methods for semi-finished carbon fiber sheets vary depending on the application, performance requirements, and finished product size. From CNC cutting, water jet cutting, and laser processing to hole finishing and post-processing, every step requires specialized knowledge and rigorous control. In the face of increasingly complex and changing market demands, selecting a professional carbon fiber material supplier is crucial to ensuring product quality and manufacturing efficiency.
