Tennis rackets are made of three main parts: the handle, the frame, and the strings. The handle is covered with a grip that is made from leather or rubber. The frame is constructed of graphite, carbon fiber, or composites that can include fiberglass and kevlar. The strings are made from polyester, nylon, synthetic or natural gut.
The process of making a tennis racket can be divided into six steps:
1. Design and development
The shape of the frame is designed using 3D software and rapid prototyping machines. The designers also decide on the materials, weight, balance, stiffness, and other features of the racket.
2. Manufacturing
The frame of the racket is typically made from graphite, a form of carbon fiber. The graphite is a soft and flexible material that comes in large rolls. The rolls are cut into sheets and then layered on top of each other to form the desired thickness and shape of the racket. The sheets are also impregnated with a plastic resin that will harden when heated.
3. Assembling
The layered sheets of graphite are placed into a metal mold that has the shape of the racket. The mold is then heated and pressed to fuse the layers together and form the frame of the racket. The excess material is trimmed off and the frame is removed from the mold.
4. Quality control
The frame of the racket is inspected for any defects or flaws. It is also tested for its weight, balance, stiffness, and other properties. Any adjustments or corrections are made if needed.
5. Packaging
The frame of the racket is painted and branded with logos and labels. It is also fitted with a grip and a grommet strip that protects the holes where the strings will be inserted. The racket is then wrapped and packed for shipping.
6. Marketing
The racket is shipped to retailers or online stores where customers can buy it. The racket is also promoted through advertisements, endorsements, and reviews.
References
2: How Tennis Rackets are Made: The Entire Process