… Introducing the CarbingeÔ
Carbon Fiber Hinge
WHY CARBON?
For decades, metal has been the standard material in use for
continuous hinges. When the parts to be joined were metal, this was fine.
Hinging technology has not kept pace with revolutionary advances in composite
construction. The CarbingeÔ
is the new standard in piano hinges with unique advantages.
Here are just a few of the reasons why the metal hinge is a poor choice in
today's composite structures and why carbon hinges should be used instead:
Strength: the bond between our carbon hinge and glass or carbon
components is nearly integral. It is almost as strong as the components
themselves. There are few if any mechanical joints or rivets that will work loose
under vibrational or thermal stress loads. Save weight, work and cost by
using fewer layers in components.
Durability: just like the other carbon or fiberglass components of
your composite structure, these hinges will withstand virtually unlimited
stress cycles without breaking down. Conversely, metal has a definite life
expectancy as a result of cyclical loading.
Strength to Weight Ratio: greater strengths can be achieved while
realizing weight savings. Smaller size hinges can be used in tight spots.
Ease of Application: bond this material in place with any suitable
high peel strength adhesive and your work is done. The hinge
material can be trimmed easily and cleanly.
Coefficient of Expansion: metal expands & contracts at greater
rates than composite materials resulting in warping, crazing and cracking of
bonds during thermal cycles. There is little expansion or contraction
of carbon or fiberglass during thermal cycles and the deformation that does
occur is more uniform across similar materials (composites) vs. dissimilar
materials (metal attached to composite).
Corrosion Resistance: carbon will not rust or corrode. The hinge pin
is steel with resistant qualities as well.
Esthetics: avoiding rows of rivets and screws makes for a better
visual appearance.
Cost Effective: factoring in ease of installation with
durability/longevity provides a hinge that will actually cost less than
comparable metal hinge material.
We are recommending these hinges for virtually any continuous hinge need in
boats or other structures including mobile homes, furniture, cabinets, etc. They
are indicated for trim tab fasteners, upper/lower cowl attachments, and other
similar aircraft applications. In light/ultralight or other utility performance
aircraft, the hinges can be used for almost any application where a continuous
hinge is indicated. *
The hinges are rated for 3,000 pounds per lineal foot.
*Certified airplanes must have field approval from the FAA prior to
installation of these hinges.