Discover a high-strength, high-performance carbon fiber nylon filament that doesn’t lock you into a proprietary ecosystem.
What is Obsidian PA6+CF?
Obsidian PA6+CF is a carbon fiber-reinforced composite filament based on Nylon 6 (PA6), one of the most widely used engineering thermoplastics. Reinforced with less than 20% high-modulus carbon fiber, it delivers exceptional stiffness, strength, and dimensional stability, all wrapped in a sleek matte black finish.
Designed by 3DXTech, Obsidian is their direct competitor to Markforged Onyx, but with a critical advantage—open platform compatibility and 30–40% lower cost per kilogram. While Onyx requires proprietary systems, Obsidian works seamlessly with a wide range of FDM printers like Bambu Lab, Prusa, and the Vision Miner 22 IDEX.
Compatibility and Ease of Use
For those already using Markforged machines, Obsidian is a true drop-in replacement. It’s compatible with models including the Onyx One, Onyx Pro, Mark Two, X3, X5, X7, and potentially even the FX series—no print profile changes needed.
And for open-source enthusiasts, this filament performs exceptionally well on non-proprietary platforms, giving you full freedom to optimize slicing profiles and part geometries to match your application needs.
Key Applications
Obsidian PA6+CF is widely used across several industries, including:
- Aerospace: ducting, mounts, and interior components that require thermal resistance and dimensional stability.
- Automotive: under-hood brackets, clips, and enclosures exposed to hydrocarbons and heat.
- Robotics: end-of-arm tooling, grippers, and structural components benefiting from lightweight rigidity.
- Manufacturing: jigs, fixtures, and alignment tools traditionally machined in aluminum.
- Defense and Civil Engineering: ruggedized housings, drone chassis, and field-use enclosures.
Performance and Technical Specifications
According to the technical data sheet (TDS), Obsidian PA6+CF offers impressive engineering-grade properties:
- Tensile Strength: 44 MPa
- Tensile Modulus: 3.5 GPa
- Flexural Strength: 75 MPa
- Flexural Modulus: 3.8 GPa
- Elongation at Break: 11%
- Heat Deflection Temperature @ 1.8 MPa: 147°C
- Surface Resistivity: >10⁹ Ohms/sq (insulating)
- Density: 1.2g/mm³
This makes it stiffer and more dimensionally stable than Onyx, although slightly more brittle under extreme conditions.
Printing Guidelines and Requirements
To get the best results, ensure you meet the following printing requirements:
- Nozzle Temperature: 265–285°C (use a hardened steel nozzle)
- Bed Temperature: 90–110°C
- Chamber Temperature (Optional): 60–70°C
- Drying: At least 4 hours at 90°C (vacuum drying recommended)
Like all nylons, Obsidian is highly hygroscopic and must be dried thoroughly before printing to avoid bubbling, stringing, and poor layer adhesion.
Real-World Testing: Strength, Flame, and Torsion
In physical tests, Obsidian demonstrated remarkable Z-axis strength with no major layer delamination, achieving near-isotropic properties. Torsion tests showed clean, consistent breaks indicative of strong layer adhesion.
However, flame testing revealed a significant weakness—Obsidian melts and drips quickly, emitting potentially noxious fumes. It’s not ideal for applications near open flames or high ignition risk environments, but excels in general-use, automotive interiors, and low-heat applications.
Conclusion: Who Should Use Obsidian PA6+CF?
Obsidian PA6+CF is an ideal material for anyone looking for the high-performance benefits of carbon fiber nylon without being locked into expensive proprietary ecosystems. It’s perfect for:
- Markforged users looking to cut material costs
- Engineers and manufacturers who want beautiful, functional parts
- Open-platform printer users seeking premium results without compromise
With its exceptional surface finish, strength, and cost savings, Obsidian is one of the best-kept secrets in the 3D printing world—and now it’s available for anyone to harness.
Ready to print better for less? Order Obsidian PA6+CF now and experience the difference.