Published on October 25, 2023
The Composition
CarbonX™ CFPA6 is made from a PA6 copolymer reinforced with very high modulus carbon fiber. This combination provides it with excellent mechanical properties while still retaining some of the nylon’s desirable characteristics. The carbon fiber helps enhance its rigidity, strength, and heat resistance. This filament is often used in applications where a combination of strength and fine surface finish is required.
Key Features
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High Modulus
CarbonX™ CFPA6 is designed to be incredibly stiff. It has a high modulus, which means it maintains its shape and resists deformation even under load. This makes it perfect for applications where structural integrity is crucial.
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Chemical Resistance
This material is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including oils, greases, fuels, and hydrocarbons. It’s an ideal choice for parts that come into contact with automotive fluids and other harsh chemicals.
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Thermal Performance
With a heat deflection temperature (HDT) of 147°C, CarbonX™ CFPA6 can withstand elevated temperatures. It’s well-suited for applications that need to endure high heat.
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Good Surface Finish
Unlike some other high-strength materials, CarbonX™ CFPA6 delivers a fine surface finish. The carbon fiber content not only strengthens the material but also contributes to the smooth texture of the printed parts.
Common Applications
- Automotive Components: From engine parts to brackets and housings, this material is often used in the automotive industry for its strength, heat resistance, and chemical resilience.
- Aircraft Components: Aircraft engines, cooling systems, and even headlight components can benefit from the high-performance characteristics of CarbonX™ CFPA6.
- Manufacturing and Prototyping: Its combination of strength and fine surface finish makes it an excellent choice for manufacturing tools, fixtures, and prototypes.
- Vacuum Molds: If you’re into vacuum molding, this material can be a game-changer. You can 3D print molds that are durable, heat-resistant, and even more cost-effective than traditional machining.
Printing Considerations
To make the most of CarbonX™ CFPA6, here are some key things to consider:
- Printing Temperature: You’ll need a 3D printer with a nozzle temperature of at least 240°C, and it can go up to 270°C. This means it’s compatible with many popular desktop 3D printers, including the Ender 3.
- Bed Temperature: Heating the print bed to 80-110°C typically works well. This helps with bed adhesion and minimizes warping.
- Adhesion: A nanopolymer adhesive is a great choice for improving bed adhesion, and it works well with glass, BuildTak, and PEI surfaces.
- Heated Chamber: While not absolutely necessary, a heated chamber (80-110°C) can help you achieve even better results, especially for large prints.
- Drying: It’s essential to dry CarbonX™ CFPA6 before printing. Nylon materials, including this one, are hygroscopic, which means they absorb moisture from the air. Drying kits, including vacuum chambers and ovens, are available to help you prepare your filament correctly.
Safety First
One aspect of CarbonX™ CFPA6 you should be aware of is its flammability. Like most nylon materials, it is not flame-retardant and will burn if exposed to an open flame. It’s essential to handle it with care, especially during post-processing.
Breaking and Burning
In a captivating demonstration, the presenter subjected CarbonX™ CFPA6 to breaking and burning tests. During the breaking test, the material displayed its strength, with no apparent layer weaknesses. In the burning test, the material was ignited and produced some smoke. While it’s not flame-retardant, it did not self-extinguish. It’s crucial to be cautious when working with this material, especially around open flames.
In Conclusion
CarbonX™ CFPA6 is a formidable 3D printing material that offers exceptional strength, fine surface finish, and resistance to heat and chemicals. Its applications span various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. However, users need to be aware of its flammability and take precautions when using it. As 3D printing materials continue to evolve, options like CarbonX™ CFPA6 provide engineers and makers with new possibilities for creating strong, durable, and high-quality parts. If you’re looking for a material that combines the best of nylon with added strength and resistance, CarbonX™ CFPA6 is worth considering.