Boeing will soon fly their new 787 which has an all carbon fiber composite air frame. Stronger than traditional metals and lighter as well.

So any guesses as to who will be the first mfg' to offer a boom made out of this material? Size and shape can't be much of a problem as the Boeing has a one piece carbon fiber fuselage. That boys is a big azz piece!

I am certainly NOT an engineer. Perhaps this material does not lend its self to our particular application. Maybe the price to gear-up for the manufacture of these parts is just too much..... I hope not.

Yup, the first guy on the block with his new 99 meter will be the envy of all.

Just dreaming?  ;~)

This will be something to watch.Recently watched a show,I believe air disasters.A case where a fiber rudder failed.Yes what a thought,bet we see it.

DamMany......... I have seen steel booms fail too ;~)

I have been told one downside to a carbon fiber boom is the innability to repair it when damaged, thus meaning entire sections would need to be replaced opposed to repaired. Can anyone confirm this?

I know that a repair as we know it would not be possible. Perfect conditions as to heat, atmosphere and expertise would require that a damaged section be sent to a facility dedicated to that purpose. No crazy glue and bondo deal. I have faith that as we progress a reasonable answer to a repair problem would emerge. And perhaps as an unintended bonus; operators would grow to respect the fragility of their booms. I think that would be a good thing. ;~)

Putz i believe used carbon fiber hyd cylinders on a 46m.

If not i don't know what it is,but it's not steel. Maybe coated.

CIFA used to use a titanium alloy on their pumps.I replaced a pin with a 2 1\2 " x 16" pin that weighed 3 lbs! I was shocked when FedEx brought me the box!