Ram: I agree that the market for carbon fiber is going through a large growth period.
But, you're example is perfect to test ZOLTs position. I happen to know that Cannondale is using T-700 12K fiber from Toray for that application. Large tow will NOT work for bicycle tubes. Two reasons:
1. Strength reguirement is 700 ksi plus. Large tow (ZOLT, RK, Akzo) can only achieve 550 ksi since they use textile grade precursor. To use the lower strength product, part thickness goes up (which brings weight up).
2. Cosmetics. The 50K fiber has a very unappealing surface finish whilst the 12K material offers a smooth, ready to finish surface. Also, note that even Aldila (who is going to make their own 50K fiber) is using Hexcel's 12K material for the outer surface of their golf shafts.
So, even though carbon fiber applications are exploding, the hype about ZOLT is just that, hype. You haven't even seen the latest craze to hit all the golf companies (intermediate modulus fiber).
Toray, Toho and Hexcel are introducing intermediate modulus fibers (38 - 50 million versus standard of 30 million). Word is the new bubble shaft to be introduced this year will use exclusively intermediate modulus fiber. This is going to be a major development. These new fibers cannot be matched with large tow technology (they use special precursors). Yes, they are more than $5/lb (not cents, dollars) but offer substantial improvement in performance.
IMO, ZOLT is going to left behind by the larger players. It will be interesting to watch as I believe even more companies are poised to enter this market.
Good luck.
Flyguy. |
