Extreme Tuners is a Greek mechanical processor. On November 29, 2019, they manufactured a batch of 3D printed carbon fiber composite connecting rods for Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution cars. It is reported that these connecting rods are 10 times lighter than steel and 6.5 times lighter than aluminum, and can withstand 3000 horsepower (HP) and a load of about 15,000 RPM.
At present, carbon fiber composite materials have been used in the automotive field to manufacture cost-effective tools, as well as end-use automotive parts, such as 3D printed suspension pillars and 3D printed duct fittings. Extreme Tuners wants to use carbon fiber composite materials to develop lighter, stronger, and more heat-resistant connecting rods for carbon-ceramic brakes.
The connecting rod is an integral part of the internal combustion engine. Its main function is to transfer the motion from the piston to the crankshaft, and then the crankshaft converts linear motion into rotary motion, so that the wheels can drive the car forward. These connecting rods are usually made of aluminum alloy materials, and despite the high strength of the components, they are still relatively bulky.
Topologically optimized connecting rods were tested according to the following standards: 2916HP, 15,000 RPM, 37.2m / sec, and 57,363 piston forces. Extreme Tuners pointed out that a 0.5779mm bend can be seen at the little end, and such a bend "is within acceptable limits compared to our working hours." Extreme Tuners is now developing ceramic pistons and new ceramic rods to further solve the heat dissipation problem.