What forged carbon is and what it is used for.
Forged carbon is chopped carbon fiber mixed with resin and pressed in a mold. It has no woven fabric, so every part has a different marble-like pattern. Here is how it is made, what its advantages are and when it is not the right choice.
Carbodynamic engineering team · Published on
How it is made
Pieces of carbon fiber (or prepreg) are cut and distributed in the mold, which is then closed and cured under pressure and temperature. The way the pieces are placed determines the final pattern, so it is a hand-crafted job done part by part.
In our project for a Lamborghini Huracán we used a machined two-half mold with inserts, a twill fabric base and forged carbon laid with random cut pieces. See the project.
Advantages and limitations
- Advantage: a unique, highly recognizable look.
- Advantage: fills complex geometries, ribs and tight corners well.
- Advantage: similar properties in all directions.
- Limitation: lower stiffness than a well-oriented woven laminate.
- Limitation: the finish depends heavily on the mold and the craftsmanship; no two parts are the same.
Forged carbon
Chopped fiber with a pattern that is unique on every part.
CarbodynamicForged carbon: Lamborghini Huracán mirror cover
3D scanning, a CNC mold with inserts, measurement, forged carbon lamination and a first-time fit: how we made a mirror cover for the Lamborghini Huracán.
IndustriesAutomotive and motorsport
Visible and structural parts, large molds and patterns.
Send us your drawing or 3D model, and we’ll bring it to life.
We study your project with the same care you put into designing it, then send you a clear proposal covering process, lead time and price. Only have the physical part? We’ll scan it and take it from there.
What customers ask us most.
Is forged carbon stronger than woven carbon?
Not in stiffness: an oriented fabric makes better use of the fiber. Forged carbon stands out in complex geometries and for its looks.
Where is forged carbon used?
Performance automotive, accessories, watchmaking, design and small parts with complex geometry.
Can you make a forged carbon part from an original?
Yes: we scan it, machine the mold, make the part and measure it so it fits just like the original.