Are you ready to take your 3D printing to new heights? Today, we’re diving into the world of aerospace-grade carbon fiber PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), a game-changing material designed for structural and test components, particularly in aerospace applications. Let’s explore what sets this material apart and why it’s making waves in the 3D printing community.
The Aerospace Edge
While carbon fiber PET can be used for various applications, this specific variant is meticulously formulated for aerospace use. The PET material used in this compound is an aerospace-approved grade sourced from Toray, a renowned name in the aerospace industry. The carbon fiber introduced into the mix is no ordinary fiber; it’s a chopped or ATT 800s intermediate modulus carbon fiber. In simpler terms, it’s aerospace-spec carbon fiber, and we have the certifications to prove it. Our aerospace customers utilize this material for crafting structural components and test pieces, and some even combine it with PET KK continuous tapes for specialized applications.
Unique Annealing Process
One intriguing aspect of this aerospace-grade carbon fiber PET is its transformation during the annealing process. Unlike some materials that shift from gold to tan during annealing, it’s a bit more challenging to visually assess changes in carbon fiber-filled materials due to the dark color. To address this, we employ a clever solution. We include a sacrificial part made of unfilled material alongside the carbon fiber PET. When the unfilled part undergoes the annealing process, it’s our signal that the carbon fiber PET is ready. This approach ensures that the material reaches its optimal state for 3D printing.
The Thin and Mighty Carbon Fiber
What truly sets this aerospace-grade carbon fiber PET apart is the choice of carbon fiber. While traditional carbon fibers are 7 microns in diameter, this material features a 5-micron diameter. The difference in diameter might seem minor, but it has a significant impact. When you add 10-15% of this thinner carbon fiber to a compound, you end up with double the number of carbon fibers by volume compared to traditional fibers. This results in a stiffer material with more carbon fibers distributed throughout, creating an optimal balance of strength and performance.
A Cost-Effective Solution
While high-quality carbon fiber can be costly, especially when used in PLA, it’s worth noting that when incorporated into PET, it can actually lead to cost savings. In many cases, the expensive carbon fiber displaces other materials, making it a cost-effective choice for the desired properties it brings to the table. Plus, it’s the preferred option for discerning customers in high-temperature applications where compatibility and performance are paramount.
So, if you’re looking to push the boundaries of your 3D printing projects and explore the incredible potential of aerospace-grade carbon fiber PET, you’re in for a treat. This material is a testament to innovation in the world of 3D printing and opens up new possibilities for aerospace and beyond. Stay tuned for more exciting developments in the world of advanced materials and 3D printing.