Long fiber thermoplastics (LFTs) challenge metals in weight reduction, cost efficiency, and design flexibility, offering innovative solutions for diverse applications.
- Home
- Composites
- Resources
- Comparing Long Fiber Thermoplastics to Metals
Comparing Long Fiber Thermoplastics to Metals
LFTs are up to 50% lighter than metals and offer a high strength-to-weight ratio, making them ideal for some automotive and aerospace applications where weight reduction is critical without sacrificing performance. Reducing weight in these sectors enhances fuel efficiency, lowers emissions, and extends component lifespan without compromising structural integrity.
Corrosion Resistance and Design Flexibility
Unlike metals, LFTs are inherently resistant to moisture and chemicals, eliminating the need for coatings to prevent rust. Beyond manufacturing efficiency, LFTs often result in lower overall costs due to reduced energy consumption in production, fewer secondary processes (like welding or corrosion protection), and minimal maintenance requirements over their lifespan. This makes them an attractive option for industries seeking cost-effective alternatives to traditional metals.
Impact Resistance and Durability
LFTs offer excellent impact resistance, making them ideal for crash-resistant automotive panels and protective gear. Their ability to absorb and dissipate energy helps reduce damage in high-impact scenarios. However, while LFTs effectively absorb sudden impacts and metals offer superior fatigue resistance under repeated stress cycles, LFTs are increasingly becoming the preferred choice for high-load mechanical components due to their lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and ability to integrate various functional parts.
Applications and Limitations
In automotive applications, LFTs are used for instrument panels, front-end modules, and structural seat components. In outdoor equipment, they are found in sporting goods, power tools, and weather-resistant furniture. Their growing role in consumer electronics, like lightweight washing machine components and kitchen appliance casings, further demonstrates their versatility.

The choice between LFTs and metals depends on application-specific requirements. For industries prioritizing lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and cost-effective materials, LFTs continue to gain traction as a versatile and sustainable alternative to traditional metals, shaping the future of high-performance manufacturing.
What Are Long Fiber Thermoplastics?
Long fiber thermoplastics (LFTs) combine durability, recyclability, and lightweight design, making them ideal for…
Long Vs Short Fiber Composites
LFTs offer superior strength and durability, compared to traditional solutions for demanding applications.
Impact of Fiber Orientation on Strength
Fiber orientation in long fiber thermoplastics (LFTs) directly influences strength, stiffness, and durability.…
Recyclability of Long Fiber Thermoplastics
Advancements in material science and processing technologies are creating exciting opportunities to integrate LFTs into…