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1. Forged carbon: material and manufacturing of a watch case (video)
2. Table of main properties of Forged carbon
| Property | Typical value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Density | ~1.4–1.6 g/cm³ | Very lightweight |
| Modulus of elasticity (E) | ~50–150 GPa | More homogeneous, but lower than UD |
| Tensile strength | ~300–800 MPa | Lower than continuous fibres |
| Hardness | Variable | Depends on die |
| Thermal conductivity | ~5–15 W/m·K | Low |
| Electrical conductivity | Conductor (partial) | Variable |
| Expansion coefficient | Very low | Stable |
| Magnetism | No | Non-magnetic |
| Corrosion resistance | Excellent | Very stable |
| Machinability | Difficult | Abrasive |
3. General description
Forged carbon is a composite material made up of carbon fibre fragments randomly dispersed in a polymer die, usually an epoxy resin. Unlike woven fibres, its structure is not organised in a weave, but has an apparent isotropic distribution, giving a marbled or “flecked” visual appearance.
Introduced into watchmaking in the early 21st century, these fibres are particularly valued for their lightness, mechanical strength, and unique aesthetics, with each piece featuring a different pattern depending on the length of the fibres and their orientation.
4. Structure and manufacturing
Unlike woven fibres, frosted carbon is obtained by:
- Cutting carbon fibre into short fragments
- Mixing with a polymer resin
- Shaping by compression in a mould
- Polymerisation under pressure and Temperature
Once the composite is moulded and polymerised, it can be cut (laser, water jet) and machined
This process makes it possible to obtain:
- Great freedom of shapes
- Good mechanical homogeneity
- Industrial repeatability
5. Specific characteristics
Forged carbon stands out for:
- A disoriented structure of the fibres
- A reduction in anisotropy
- A unique random aesthetic
- A better ability for complex shaping
Each piece features a unique visual pattern, comparable to a natural material.
7. Advantages and limitations
Advantages
- Very lightweight
- Good mechanical resistance
- More homogeneous properties than woven fibres
- Non-magnetic
- Corrosion-resistant
- Great freedom of shape
- Unique aesthetic (each piece is different)
Limitations
- Mechanical strength lower than that of continuous fibres
- Sensitivity to localised impacts
- Difficulty of repair
- Possible ageing of the polymer die
- Abrasive machining for tools
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