Refinish paint supplier Standox has highlighted the knowledge, tools, materials and processes necessary for carbon fibre repairs, as the hi-tech material is increasingly used on prestige new vehicle models.

Carbon fibre is becoming more popular with car manufacturers as it is stronger than steel and lighter than aluminium, two important factors for modern, high-end sports cars. Although still relatively expensive, the costs of producing this fibre-reinforced polymer are decreasing, enabling car manufacturers to use it more widely. Consequently, it is important that bodyshops have the knowledge and tools at their disposal to carry out carbon fibre repairs and Standox offers both. 

“There are several things a refinisher needs to know when faced with a carbon fibre repair,” explains Jodie Henly, Standox Brand Manager. “The most important is how to identify the material in the first place, what the correct paint layer build-up should be and what needs to be considered when preparing this substrate.” She adds, “Depending on where the carbon fibre part is on the vehicle, refinishers may need to achieve a natural look, showing the carbon fibre effect “grinning” through the coating, or require a smooth uniform finish. Special products and processes are used throughout these specialised repairs that will give the refinisher the best results.”

Jodie goes on , ”After sanding down, we advise cleaning the repair area with a Standox Precleaner; we then offer a polyester spray filler and a VOC system filler, whose application can be repeated should the carbon structure need to be hidden. Any Standohyd basecoat can then be applied, so there is no restriction on the colour, and finally a clearcoat such as our VOC 2K Clear can be used, again depending on the effect required.”

Repairing carbon fibre is not straightforward as there are many factors to take into account, but Standox says it offers bodyshops both the product range and the know-how so they have the confidence to take on any job and produce a quality finish.

Standox offers a full training module on specialist substrate repairs, which includes carbon fibre, and which can be carried out at bodyshops’ sites if required. For more information about this and the full range of Standox products and services, contact your local distributor or visit www.standox.co.uk.