When it comes to safety equipment, material choice matters. CDS (Cold Drawn Seamless) tube is specified by Motorsport UK for roll-over protection, and understanding why helps appreciate the engineering behind your roll bar.
What is CDS Tube?
CDS tube is manufactured by drawing solid steel billets over a mandrel, creating a seamless tube with consistent wall thickness and superior mechanical properties. Unlike welded tube, there's no seam that could potentially fail under stress.
Key Properties
- Consistent strength: No weak points from weld seams
- Predictable deformation: Absorbs energy progressively
- Excellent weldability: Creates strong, reliable joints
- Tight tolerances: Ensures proper fit and finish
Why It Matters
In a roll-over incident, the tube needs to deform in a controlled manner, absorbing energy while maintaining the survival cell around the driver. CDS tube's consistent properties ensure it performs as designed, every time.