Composite bats are a relatively new type of baseball bat that become popular in amateur baseball leagues during the early 2000s. They are made out of carbon fibers instead of aluminum or wood. The bats have created some controversy among players and coaches; certain levels of baseball leagues such as Little League do not allow the use of composite bats and only wooden bats are allowed to be used in Major League Baseball.
Materials
Composite bats are made of a combination of carbon, glass and Kevlar fibers, which make the bats very lightweight. Because these bats are so light, manufacturers place a metal rod inside the bat near the handle to give it some swinging weight. The knobs on the end of the bat are made from an epoxy resin and the bat is painted like a normal aluminum bat.
Manufacturing Process
The composite bat manufacturing process is more complicated than that of aluminum or wooden bats. First, sheets of carbon fiber are sealed together and then wrapped around a steel bat frame. Next, the bats are wrapped airtight in tape and baked in an oven for two hours. Afterward, the tape is removed and the bats are wrapped in braided weaves of carbon and fiberglass and then fitted with another sheet of carbon before they are placed in a mold to shape. Epoxy resin is inserted into the mold and after it has set, the excess resin is shaved off and the bat is primed and painted.
Before You Buy
Before you buy, consider the pros and cons of composite bats. Not all leagues allow the use of composite bats, so check with your league before you buy one. Although the bats are light and flexible, and the low dampening rate reduces the "sting" in your hands when a ball is hit, the bats are also prone to damage if not broken in properly or if you use them in weather below 65 degrees F.
Prices and Purchasing
Because the manufacturing process of composite bats is more complex than other bats, they tend to cost more than aluminum or wooden models. A new composite bat cost from $120 to $300 in 2011, depending on the model and the company. You can purchase composite bats at any major sporting goods store or from online retailers.
Member Comments