Nov 07/22
How Lightweight Materials are Changing the Face of Auto Manufacturing
Do you want to learn the influence of lightweight materials in auto manufacturing?
If so, this article has everything you need to know!
Many people worldwide know the significant role of lightweight manufacturing. However, most people do not understand why or how it plays such a vital role.
Last year, over 79 million cars were produced worldwide. So now is the perfect time to learn about the matter.
Fortunately, you came to the right place. Below, you’ll find everything there is to know about the new dawn of vehicle manufacturing.
Lightweight Materials in Auto Manufacturing
Lightweight materials are the future of design and manufacturing in vehicles. So people are creating new and exciting methods annually.
As we approach 2023, the most common light materials and fabrics are the following:
Carbon Fiber
Carbon fiber is almost five times lighter than steel. That’s why you will find it in every F1, NASCAR, or Indy 500 vehicle.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast or not, you probably came across carbon fiber in the past. The robust and resistant material isn’t only in cars or motor vehicles. You can find it in anything from furniture to sports equipment and utensils to aircraft.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is not as widely used as carbon fiber, but it’s just as effective.
Pound for pound, fiberglass is more resilient than steel. That improves the safety and lifespan of a motor vehicle.
The material is most commonly used in sports cars and luxury vehicles.
Magnesium
Magnesium doesn’t get the same praise as fiberglass or carbon fiber. However, it can play just an influential role in optimizing a car’s setup.
The element forms 2% of the earth’s crust and around the same amount of a vehicle’s body. It’s 75% lighter than steel, so experts are trying new ways to integrate it into manufacturing.
What Are the Benefits of Lightweight Manufacturing?
With so many firms switching to lightweight manufacturing, it is no surprise there are plenty of benefits. From fuel economy to lower costs, there are endless reasons for the product.
Yet, these are the most vital benefits of lightweight manufacturing.
Enhances Fuel Economy
The heavier a vehicle is, the more it has to work. In return, that means using up more gas.
Experts believe that a 1,000-pound increase can cause fuel economy to drop by up to 0.5 percent. Therefore, experts inspect every piece of fabric or material for any weight shedding.
Delivers Better Vehicle Performance
Better vehicle performance is arguably the most critical benefit of lightweight manufacturing. And it’s the primary reason manufacturers constantly research and deliver new light elements.
Imagine this. Two identical pickup trucks have a drag race. However, one of the trucks has half a ton of building supplies in the trunk.
Which one will win?
Of course, the empty one. It requires less energy to accelerate a lighter object than a heavier one.
Reduce Manufacturing Costs
Since light items improve economy and performance, it is strange to think they can also save cash.
When an item is lighter, it needs fewer materials. And because fewer materials are required, manufacturers can purchase a smaller amount.
Once the cost of production is reduced, it also lowers the cost of the product for customers.
A Sustainable Manufacturing Process
Since 2008, scientists think CO2 emissions have dropped by around 24% in the industry. That is roughly around the time when lightweight materials grew in popularity.
When manufacturers use fewer materials, they lower their carbon footprint. Additionally, a better fuel economy reduces the use of gas, which creates sustainable cars and is better for the environment.
Lightweight Materials in Vehicles Today
If you’ve read this much, you now know the lightweight materials and why they’re used in vehicles today.
Not only do they play a role in vehicles today, but also in the cars of the future. We know that because we have been dealing with the industry for over 15 years.
If you want to learn more about auto manufacturing, contact us today. We will be more than happy to help you with your queries!
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Keyword: cnc machining milling