How Computer-Controlled Filament Winding Delivers High Accuracy and Precision

When it comes to high-performance carbon fiber bicycle rims, precision, accuracy, and weight savings are key factors that can make a big difference in the performance of the bike. At Venn, we understand the importance of these factors and have invested in the latest computer-controlled filament winding technology to produce our carbon rims. In this article, we’ll explore the technical superiority of Venn carbon rims, and how our filament winding process delivers industry-leading accuracy, precision, and weight savings.

Computer-Controlled Filament Winding: Advantages Over Hand Layup

Carbon fiber rims have traditionally been produced using hand layup techniques, which involve manually placing individual layers of carbon fiber onto a mold. While this approach can produce high-quality rims, it is time-consuming and subject to human error. Venn’s computer-controlled filament winding technology allows us to produce rims that are extremely accurate, uniform, and lightweight.

Filament winding involves winding continuous strands of carbon fiber onto a mandrel using a precision-controlled machine. Our machines can wind fibers in multiple directions, including 0, 45, and 90-degree angles, resulting in a rim that is both strong and stiff. The computer-controlled process ensures that each layer is placed exactly where it’s needed, resulting in a rim that is consistent and uniform.

The accuracy and precision achievable with our filament winding process was previously only attainable in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and wind energy. For example, the production of wind turbine blades requires a high level of precision and consistency to ensure that the blades can withstand high wind speeds while maintaining stability. Filament winding has allowed manufacturers to produce turbine blades that are lightweight and strong, without compromising on durability.

Low Weight and High Uniformity

Venn carbon rims are known for their low weight and high uniformity. Our filament winding process allows us to produce rims that are both lightweight and strong, without compromising on durability. The computer-controlled process also ensures that each rim is uniform and consistent, reducing any variation that can occur with hand layup techniques.

Uniformity and consistency are critical in the production of high-performance materials. For example, the manufacturing of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) components for the aerospace industry requires a high level of uniformity to ensure the safety and reliability of the components. Accidents in space, or while flying due to component failure would almost certainly result in a catastophe. Therefore, the aerospace industry adopted automated layup techniques as a way to minimise error that is inherent with the traditional hand layup processes.

Reduced Delivery Lead Times

In addition to the technical advantages of our filament winding process, it also allows us to reduce our delivery lead times. Traditional hand layup techniques can be time-consuming and subject to human error, resulting in longer lead times due to slower process speed, and a higher number of QC failures. With our computer-controlled process, we can produce rims more efficiently, resulting in shorter lead times and faster delivery to our customers.

In conclusion, the technical superiority of Venn carbon rims is evident in our use of computer-controlled filament winding technology. This process allows us to produce rims that are extremely accurate, precise, and uniform, while also reducing lead times and ensuring consistent quality. Filament winding has been used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and wind energy to produce high-performance components that are lightweight and strong, and the technology has enabled Venn Cycling to produce bicycle wheel rims that are among the best in the industry.