Compared to traditional aluminum /alloy wheels, single-piece carbon fiber composite wheels can provide weight savings of up to 40-50% and superior surface finish.
Henkel has reached a strategic materials supply agreement with Carbon Revolution, the world's leading global manufacturer of monolithic automotive carbon composite wheels. The collaboration includes a dedicated production facility at Henkel's existing facility near Melbourne.
The global automotive industry is seeking lightweight solutions. The wheel is one of the most important parts in a car because it is a rotating, unsprung characteristic. When it comes to wheels, one-piece carbon composite technology is an emerging option for global car manufacturers. Compared to traditional aluminum wheels, single-piece carbon fiber composite wheels can provide weight savings of up to 40-50% and superior surface finish.
KoNRad Brimo Hayek, Senior Business Development Manager, Henkel Automotive Components, said, "Based on years of close cooperation with Carbon Revolution, we have expanded our mature portfolio of composite technology to develop proprietary solutions that meet the demanding performance indicators of global automotive manufacturers. The partnership with Carbon Revolution aims to provide the best available solutions for a variety of global OEM carbon wheel projects, and to obtain active support from Henkel through its dual production capabilities in the EU and Australia.
Carbon Revolution's carbon fiber composite wheels are now used in some of the world's most prestigious sports cars. Due to the low inertia of composite wheels, a significant reduction in non-spring turning mass translates into direct vehicle handling benefits, from better steering feel and traction to improved acceleration and braking response. In terms of sustainability, this technology can also improve fuel or power efficiency and help automakers reduce the carbon dioxide emissions balance of their cars.
Carbon Revolution Chief Technology Officer Brett Gass added: "As a lightweight component, carbon wheels can make a significant contribution by minimizing the energy consumed by turning the wheel up and dragging it down each time the car accelerates or decelerates. This saves fuel for internal combustion engine vehicles and the battery power of hybrid and all-electric vehicles, maximizing their mileage. Compared to steel or aluminum wheels, Henkel's advanced material technology also helps The overall reduction in noise, vibration and stiffness means that automakers can save weight on additional sound insulation. "