Why is the use of Carbon Fibre good in airplane body construction?

Question

Can anyone tell me please why the use of Composite material, carbon fibre is good in the construction of airplanes, i.e Boeing 787 Dreamliner?

Many Thanks in Advance

Answer 1

Graphite-epoxy structure can usually weigh less than aluminum structure if it's done right because the material has a better strength/weight ratio.  

The ability to automate the process of making large structures offers the possibility of cheaper airplanes in spite of the higher cost of the graphite-epoxy.

The exterior surface of the aircraft can be made smoother, resulting in less aerodynamic drag.

Answer 2

its lightweight, strong, and it absorbs the force of an impact

Answer 3

Carbon Fibre is lighter than metals used now...which adds to "useful load," thereby saving fuel and adds "payload."

Also, it is stronger than sheet metal and will NOT corrode or fatigue. Corrosion accelerates fatiguing and leads to failure due to stresses imposed, i.e tension, torsion,compression, bending and expansion. Special alloys are used in aluminum to strengthen the original compounds.

Boeing uses a method of building fuselages by preloading outer skins known as "Stressed Skin,"  unlike other manufactures.

Carbon Fibre is one long continuous spun-glass process for the "Dreamliner" fuselage and stronger than the conventional construction technique. When the aluminum fuselage is struck, it results in dents, creases and puncture damages leading to repairs and repetative inspections. The Carbon Fibre allows a uniform absorbtion and a heavy-blow will bounce off.

Since Boeing is the manufacturer and has engineered this process for their aircraft, they must include strict guidlines for repairs and maintenace of their product. This becomes the criteria for "Certification" of a new product and Boeing must apply to the Federal (F.A.A.) Government for a "Type Certificate" leading to "Airworthiness" approval. Until the T.C. is issued, the craft built are known as proto-types.

Answer 4

a lot lighter while being stronger so the aircraft is more efficient

Answer 5

Primarily the reduced weight which improves the miles per gallon fuel efficiency. This is because most of the fuselage material is made out of carbon fibers, which is lighter than the former alumin-titanium construction, and each fuselage will be produced as a single piece. This eliminates the need for thousands ribbits and fastners, thus further reducing weight.

Answer 6

strong and light weight better gas mileage

Answer 7

every weight loss is money earned.

Answer 8

Strong and Lightweight, anything else?