Quote:
Originally Posted by aceyx That's an antiquated thought; what about carbon fiber? powdercoating? ceramics? Resins (and plastics for that matter) have increased in technology significantly. Polycarbonate (lexan) beats traditional materials (glass) in certain circumstances. Fiber-impregnated resins like zytel are extremely strong in application. Thermoplastics are strong and flexible at the same time, where the same could not be said of most metals, let alone useful alloys. It is also price-efficient. I'm not saying it's the miracle material, just that there are applications where metal isn't always the best. |
Ok Cons item by item.
Carbon fiber - Fatigues quickly when abused, gives no warning of failure UV sensitive. Overpriced because its now made in higher volume than regular fiberglass. Should (And does at the wholesale level) cost about 30% less than fiberglass.
Powdercoating - Banned in many racing applications because it doesn't allow cracks to show and allows rust to form underneath with no external trace.
Ceramics - usefull for heat blocking, but cause embrittlement in many metals and have similar side effects to powdercoating. Appropriate uses are very good.
Lexan - Crazes when exposed to benzine/gasoline. Embrittles under UV.
life expectancy about 20% of glass.
Zytel,Plastics,resins - Don't like heat. Varying chemical tolerances, Have you replaced your plastic ended BMW radiator YET or when not if the tank breaks?
Its mostly about life expectancy for me. Plastics only belong IMHO where they improve the life of the product not reduce it....
BESIDES! I was poking fun at the topic
Dave