Replacing metal with composite isn’t simply a material substitution.
Metal components are often designed around the properties and manufacturing methods of metal. Recreating the same geometry in composite can leave significant performance, weight and cost advantages unrealized or introduce new challenges.
A successful conversion starts by understanding why the change is being considered. Is the goal to reduce weight? Address corrosion? Improve electrical or thermal properties? Reduce maintenance? Consolidate components?
From there, engineers can determine whether the geometry, fiber orientation, wall thickness, attachment points and manufacturing process should change along with the material.
The best composite replacement may look very different from the metal part it replaces.
GP&C helps customers evaluate metal-to-composite conversions from both an engineering and manufacturing perspective. Considering converting an existing component? Contact our team to explore what a composite-specific design could make possible.
