What is Carbon Fiber?

Carbon fiber is a high-performance material known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and structural stability. It consists of carbon atoms arranged in a highly ordered crystalline structure, similar to graphite. Those carbon atoms form hexagonal planes that are aligned along the fiber’s axis providing a high tensile strength. As a composite material, carbon fiber is typically embedded in an epoxy resin.

Compared to steel, carbon fiber is significantly lighter while offering up to ten times the strength, making it ideal for high-strength, low-weight applications. Carbon fiber doesn’t expand with heat and is very corrosion-resistant making it very stable. 

Why is carbon fiber used for water fed poles? 

Water fed poles require a balance of lightweight construction, stiffness, and durability for window cleaners. Over time, aluminum and fiberglass have been largely phased out of the industry. Aluminum, though initially popular, proved suboptimal due to its susceptibility to corrosion, thermal conductivity, and high electrical conductivity; posing safety hazards near power lines. Fiberglass, while non-conductive, exhibited excessive flexibility at height and became brittle with prolonged exposure to the elements

Carbon fiber as a material, offers less flex which means more control. A bending pole causes inefficiency requiring more input from the user to keep the brush stable. Stiff poles reduce wobbling making cleaning faster and reducing strain on the user.

One drawback with using carbon fiber for water fed poles is that it is known to conduct electricity. To combat that, XERO created the InsuPole made of glass fibre to reduce the potential for electrical shocks when used correctly and with other safety PPE. 

How is Carbon Fiber Rated? 

Carbon fiber can be identified by a grading system that uses ratings like T (ton) and MSI (Million Pounds per Square Inch). The stiffness of the carbon fiber is determined by its tensile modulus, which quantifies its resistance to deformation under stress. The modulus of the carbon fiber is correlated to the MSI and indicates how resistant to bending it is.

• Tensile strength - determines how much force the fiber can withstand before breaking.

• Modulus (MSI) - indicates stiffness; higher values mean less flex under load.

The carbon fiber used in water fed poles usually comes in these four grades: 24T, 30T, 40T, and 46T 

24T (33MSI) - This is the lowest grade of carbon fiber used in XERO water fed poles. It is a durable and affordable option, but you pay for that in its flexibility. 

Poles made of 24T: Pro Basic, Micro Basic

30T (42 MSI) - A mid-grade carbon fiber offering a balanced blend of flexibility and rigidity, making it ideal for residential and low-rise commercial applications.

Poles made of 30T: Arrow

40T (57 MSI) - Stepping into the high-modulus carbon fibers, this grade is strong, stiff, and rigid. It is perfect for reaching those commercial windows up to 50 feet. 

Poles made of 40T: SteveOnator

46T (65 MSI) - The highest grade of carbon fiber; this is known as ultra high modulus. It is the stiffest option and is lightweight. This allows certain poles to reach heights of up to 90’. 

Poles made of 46T: Pro Ultralight, Micro Ultralight, Micro Destroyer, Destroyer, Delight

Pro Tip: The higher the MSI, the stiffer the carbon fiber, but less durability. 

Types of Carbon Fiber by Pole Height

Hybrid Fibers - Carbon fiber is versatile and can be combined with other materials like kevlar and glass fiber to produce versions with unique capabilities that may increase their flexibility, impact resistance, or tensile strength load. 

Hybrid Blend - In the XERO lineup, you will find the M9 as the hybrid offering. Made from carbon fiber and fiberglass, this pole is affordable and offers a moderate stiffness. It’s heavier than full carbon fiber and flexes more at heights so it’s not an ideal choice for most jobs. This hybrid material is best for entry level / medium height poles (<30’)

Standard Carbon Fiber - This intermediate modulus has a good balance of stiffness and weight. It’s commonly used for water fed poles, and is more expensive than a hybrid pole. Best for poles extending to 30’ - 50’.

Ultra High Modulus Carbon Fiber - Perfect for applications where you need an extremely stiff and ultra-lightweight option with minimal flex. It’s the most expensive option, however, when you’re working over 50’ it is the best option to give you the most control over your brush and save you from the fatigue. Best for 50’+.

Height Guide

Short - Under 25’ - Flexibility is negligible making hybrid constructions a viable and cost-effective option.

Mid-Length - 30’ - 50’ - Stiffer carbon fiber is required to maintain control of your brush.

Tall - 50’ - 80’ - Ultra High Modulus ensures minimal flex and maximum efficiency. 

Are all carbon fiber surfaces the same?

XERO water-fed poles predominantly utilize Unidirectional (UD) Wrap carbon fiber, where fibers are aligned along a single axis rather than woven. This design maximizes stiffness along the pole’s length while minimizing unnecessary weight. It also results in a smooth outer layer. 

The XERO Micro Destroyer distinguishes itself with a 3K sanded carbon fiber finish, where each fiber bundle comprises 3,000 tightly woven filaments, laminated and sanded for enhanced durability and grip. It offers a more uniform, cross-directional strength and is less prone to cracking than a UD Wrap. It has a smooth, matte finish with a nice grip. The downside is that it can be slightly heavier and more flexible.

How does the thickness of the carbon fiber affect it? 

XERO water fed poles fall into the “thin” category of carbon fiber with pole walls falling between 0.9 mm to 1.3 mm thick. Thin carbon fiber is considered anything between 1 - 2 mm. Although this lends to the poles being light, it also means they can be more susceptible to cracking with impact. In contrast, thicker carbon fiber (3 - 5 mm) improves impact resistance and allows for cross-layering, increasing multi-directional strength.

How do I care for my carbon fiber water fed pole?

Minimal effort can go a long way in keeping your water fed pole working for years to come. Follow these maintenance tips to ensure a long lifespan of your carbon fiber pole. 

• Prevent drops and sudden impacts, as carbon fiber is strong under tension, but vulnerable to localized fractures.

• Use proper clamps and maintain your poles to prevent excessive wear.

• Store away from direct sunlight to prevent long-term uv degradation>

• Inspect regularly for damage. Small cracks can spread. XERO offers a warranty for any sections that are damaged. 

Meet the Author: Chris spends his time helping to design and bring the newest and best water fed window cleaning tools to the market through XERO. From new brushes, to the latest in safety innovations, he stands committed to offering window cleaners premium gear at affordable prices.