Carbon Fiber Sourcing

Ideally looking for multidirectional layer circular tubes (multidirectional best for drivetrain members since likely undergoing different stresses & also easier for calculations; circular tubes since stronger than square and not much mounting necessary for drivetrain members). This means likely twill weave roll wrapped or maybe braided depending on expected forces/stresses. Also depending on forces/stresses, tube OD guesstimating between 1.25 to 2" (32 to 50mm).

Based on Rocker-Bogie 3D printed prototype, estimated total CF tube length needed is ~3m (for drivetrain members only, not including chassis or differential).

Differences between Twill and Plain weaves can be found here.

Composites Canada

Possible options based on online available selection of finished tubes:

• Plain Weave
  • Only one size available:  20mm x 18mm x 1.2m ($25.58)
• Twill Weave
  • Range from 13mm to 32mm OD, from 0.75mm to 1.5mm thickness
  • Largest and longest available:  32mm x 29mm x 1.5m ($77.11)

Rock West Composites

Much larger online selection, but prices are much more expensive even considering the 15% student team discount.

• Roll Wrapped
  • Twill Weave
    • Example comparable to Composites Canada: 32mm x 28.5mm x 1.83m ($167)
  • Plain Weave
    • Example comparable to CC: 19mm x 16mm x 1.83m ($136)
  • Checkered Weave
    • Unidirectional tubing but with an outer woven fabric ply
• Braid
  • extremely thin walls

Dragonplate

Similar pricing to Rock West, also similar selection.

• Roll Wrapped
  • Twill Weave
    • Comparable example: 31.75mm x 28.5mm x 1.83m ($165)
  • Unidirectional
• Braided
  • ex: 31.75mm x 29.75mm x 2.44m ($154)

McMaster-Carr

Even more expensive.

• Twill Weave
  • Range from 8mm to 80mm OD
  • 48mm x 44.5mm x 1.83mm ($345)