F-P RIM MANUFACTURE - QUICK OVERVIEW
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Sat, 07 May 2005 by Denham
We construct the rims from assembled pre-processed parts in a jig. There is considerable skill involved in getting the carbon lamination made correctly. Our operators learn to produce near identical items which are molded as soon as possible.
Molding is another fine art. The operator has to ensure the open hot mold is free of resin flash and debris, judge the correct quantity of mold release to apply to ensure the molded part will not adhere to the metal and place the lamination exactly in the open mold cavity - otherwise there is risk of pinching the material.The molding presses are computer controlled. Temperatures and bladder inflation rates are pre-programmed to obtain the best surface finish.
Molds temperatures are critical as variances in either direction can have highly undesireable effects. This process technology is so unique that it is currently "patent pending".
After molding the rims are placed on the lathe and the brake surfaces cleaned up with a special diamond coated cutting tool. Another QC inspection, then these rims are sent for drilling and built into wheels.
That part of the story we will leave for another time.
