The difference between a carbon fiber frame and an aluminum frame

The difference between the two: the carbon fiber frame is a high-end frame, while the aluminum alloy frame is a mid- and low-end frame. The second difference is that the carbon fiber frame has excellent corrosion resistance, good elasticity, and outstanding shock absorption effect. The aluminum alloy frame has poor flexibility and low strength.

The specific differences between bicycle aluminum alloy and carbon fiber frame:

1. Mechanical properties

According to the data of Young's elastic modulus, the 6-series aluminum alloy has only 69-79 (GNm^-2), while the elastic modulus of carbon fiber can reach 200 (GNm^-2). The higher the elasticity rate, it means that the elastic deformation after the force will be smaller. In layman's terms, the carbon fiber frame is more "harder" and more "powerful" when stepping on it.

2. weight

The density of carbon fiber is 1.8 g/cm3, and that of aluminum is 2.7 g/cm3. But in fact, many aluminum alloy frames can make the weight close to or even surpass some carbon fiber through multiple pipes.

3. Durability

This controversy is relatively serious. Many people think aluminum alloy is durable, but it is not the case. In fact, both types have factors that are not durable. The stress concentration of aluminum alloy will cause metal fatigue and reduce the strength. According to experience, it usually occurs within 5-10 years. The higher end of the aluminum alloy frame, due to multiple pipes, makes the pipe wall extremely thin, the so-called "easy-open can", which is prone to shape changes when it is hit or bumped.

4. Appearance

Aluminum alloys are welded by pipes, leaving a weld bead. Although the weld bead of the big factory has been processed very well, it will inevitably leave traces. In addition, the overall frame of aluminum alloy is a bit stiff and rigid because it is mostly connected by straight lines. The basic forming method of carbon fiber is to spread the fiber sheet on the mold and then pour into the resin and burn it. It can be made into various shapes, and the whole looks smart and lively.

Comments

  • imposter2.0
    imposter2.0 Posts: 12,028
    edited September 2021
    Translation:

    "Everyone rush out and buy a Sava frame now..!" Fkn spammer.

    Edit: spam post now seems to have been removed, but not the posts below it - which is a bit stupid, as the replies now no longer make sense..
  • Is this bloke still here?
  • dennisn
    dennisn Posts: 10,601
    savadeck said:

    The difference between the two: the carbon fiber frame is a high-end frame, while the aluminum alloy frame is a mid- and low-end frame. The second difference is that the carbon fiber frame has excellent corrosion resistance, good elasticity, and outstanding shock absorption effect. The aluminum alloy frame has poor flexibility and low strength.

    The specific differences between bicycle aluminum alloy and carbon fiber frame:

    1. Mechanical properties

    According to the data of Young's elastic modulus, the 6-series aluminum alloy has only 69-79 (GNm^-2), while the elastic modulus of carbon fiber can reach 200 (GNm^-2). The higher the elasticity rate, it means that the elastic deformation after the force will be smaller. In layman's terms, the carbon fiber frame is more "harder" and more "powerful" when stepping on it.

    2. weight

    The density of carbon fiber is 1.8 g/cm3, and that of aluminum is 2.7 g/cm3. But in fact, many aluminum alloy frames can make the weight close to or even surpass some carbon fiber through multiple pipes.

    3. Durability

    This controversy is relatively serious. Many people think aluminum alloy is durable, but it is not the case. In fact, both types have factors that are not durable. The stress concentration of aluminum alloy will cause metal fatigue and reduce the strength. According to experience, it usually occurs within 5-10 years. The higher end of the aluminum alloy frame, due to multiple pipes, makes the pipe wall extremely thin, the so-called "easy-open can", which is prone to shape changes when it is hit or bumped.

    4. Appearance

    Aluminum alloys are welded by pipes, leaving a weld bead. Although the weld bead of the big factory has been processed very well, it will inevitably leave traces. In addition, the overall frame of aluminum alloy is a bit stiff and rigid because it is mostly connected by straight lines. The basic forming method of carbon fiber is to spread the fiber sheet on the mold and then pour into the resin and burn it. It can be made into various shapes, and the whole looks smart and lively.

    AND?