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| Material | Cardboard | Phenolic | Quantum Tube | Phenolic overwrap | Fiberglass | Carbon Fiber | Aluminum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max OD | 7.5" | 7.5" | 4" | 7.5" | None | None | None |
| Max Speed (Mach) | 0.7 | 2.5" and below - Mach 2 Above 2.5" - Mach 0.85 | 0.85 | The speed of your epoxy (Usually 3-4, unless you use ablatives)Depends on the diameter. Usually not recommended for much above mach 1. | The speed of your epoxy (Usually 3-4, unless you use ablatives) | The speed of your epoxy (Usually 3-4, unless you use ablatives) | None |
| Notes | Low speed, easy to work with | Use for motor mount tubes. | Polymer-based. Do not use for motor mount tubes. | A bit heavier than the previous three, but excellent strength. Easier layup than full composite. | More difficult to make, requires filament winding or full layup. | Highest strength-weight ratio of composites. Layups are difficult. Not RF-transparent. | Ductile, easier to machine than CF. |
| Price | Cheap. Buy in bulk for HPR's. | Cheap | A little less cheap. Cardboard is usually fine. | Medium | A lot | Lots of moneysA lot | A lot, though often less than Carbon Fiber |