Carbon Tubes

Carbon Tubes

$14.95
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Carbon tubes are lightweight and extremely stiff for their weight. They provide less flex than fiberglass or hybrid options, which can improve performance but reduces crash tolerance. The hollow profile makes them more vulnerable to snapping if over-flexed, so they are best suited for applications where the need to save weight and maintain rigidity outweighs the need for impact resistance.

Available in 4 diameters, each at 36" (91.5 cm) in length.

Comparing Materials

Rods and tubes are available in several materials, each with a different balance of flexibility, weight, cost, and durability. Below is a quick overview to help DIY makers choose the right material for their build.

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Fiberglass is the most economical option. Compared to carbon, fiberglass fibers have lower tensile strength, which allows the rod or tube to flex more under load. That added flexibility makes fiberglass more forgiving and more resilient, as it is less likely to fail catastrophically when overstressed. But fiberglass is 25-40% heavier than carbon so it will deliver less performance when light weight and stiffness is the priority.

Carbon fiber is the most expensive option and offers the highest strength-to-weight ratio. Carbon rods and tubes are extremely stiff and lightweight, making them ideal for applications where performance is critical. However, carbon is more brittle than fiberglass and can break rather than bending if stressed too hard.

Hybrid tubes and rods made with a fiberglass core under a carbon sheath combine the properties of both materials. While not as light as pure carbon they offer a compromise between the stiffness of carbon and the durability of fiberglass, making them a versatile choice for many applications.


Comparing Profiles

In addition to choosing a material, you can also choose between a solid or hollow profile to find the ideal balance of weight and flexibility for your project. Here's what you should know about each:

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Solid rods are heavier than tubes, but the solid internal fill makes them stiffer and more resistant to breakage. Because there is no hollow core, solid rods do not collapse when flexed too far, making them more durable under extreme bending or impact.

Hollow tubes are lighter and more flexible than solid rods. While still quite tough, their hollow profile makes them more susceptible to damage when overstressed. Tubes can fail by collapsing and snapping if flexed too far - something that does not occur with solid rods.