The majority of modern day aircraft, both civil and military, have extensive use of carbon fibre composites throughout their construction.

Composites are ideal materials for parts which need to be strong yet lightweight, plus there are many other benefits.

Composite materials can be tailored to match the precise requirements of the application, by varying the fibre type, orientation and polymer matrix.

This achieves a range and combination of properties, which often cannot be matched by conventional materials, as the following list demonstrates --

	Strength beyond the strongest steels.
	Weight 20% of steel or 40% of aluminium.
	Has superior strength to weight ratio and stiffness to weight ratios.
	High continuous operating temperature (up to 250°C).
	Inert in harsh or corrosive environments.
	Can be an electrical insulator or conductor.
	Coefficients of thermal conductivity and expansion are both adjustable.
	Can provide high energy absorption.
	Optimum sound dampening.

Composites can be formed into complex shapes including housings, beams, tubes and can have apertures, ridges or flanges. Most composites can be further machined to achieve fine tolerances including ultra flat surfaces. And of course carbon provides a superb surface finish, highly sought after for high quality goods and may be left black or painted to any colour.