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Magna Touts Lightweight Carbon Fiber Subframe
Magna International Inc. has partnered with Ford Motor Co. to develop a prototype carbon fiber composite subframe that cuts mass by 34% compared with a stamped steel unit.
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Magna International Inc. has partnered with Ford Motor Co. to develop a prototype carbon fiber composite subframe that cuts mass by 34% compared with a stamped steel unit.
The integrated structure replaces 45 steel parts with two molded and four metallic parts, which are joined by adhesive bonding and structural rivets. Magna says the subframe meets all safety requirements without sacrificing styling or performance attributes.
The supplier is producing prototype carbon fiber subframes for Ford, which will conduct component and vehicle-level testing. This will include evaluating corrosion, stone chipping and bolt load retention characteristics that aren’t measured during the computer-aided design process. The project team also will develop a recommended design, manufacturing and assembly process.
The Magna team is a collaboration between the company’s Body & Chassis and Exteriors products groups. The supplier previously introduced a carbon fiber grille opening reinforcement for Ford’s Mustang Shelby Cobra GT500 sports car and a carbon fiber hood for General Motors’ Cadillac CTS/ATS-V models.
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