Discover the capabilities, specs, and real-world performance of Carbon Fiber PEEK for advanced 3D printing applications.
What is CF PEEK?
CF PEEK stands for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polyether Ether Ketone—a next-generation thermoplastic composite designed for extreme performance. As part of the PAEK family, it combines the resilience of PEEK with the stiffness of carbon fiber, resulting in a material that is thermally stable, chemically resistant, and mechanically robust.
Carbon fibers typically make up 10–30% of the material by weight. These chopped fibers significantly improve rigidity and dimensional stability while reducing overall weight compared to metals.
Technical Specifications
- Tensile Strength: Up to 105 MPa
- Tensile Modulus: 8100 MPa
- Flexural Strength: 136 MPa
- Flexural Modulus: 8300 MPa
- Heat Deflection Temperature: 265°C
- Density: 1.39 g/cm³
- Surface Resistance: >10⁹ ohms (ESD-safe)
CF PEEK vs. Standard PEEK
While both materials share the same PEEK polymer base, CF PEEK outperforms standard PEEK across the board. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Stiffness: CF PEEK is more than twice as stiff (8100 MPa vs 3720 MPa).
- Flexural Modulus: Jumps from 2700 MPa to 8300 MPa.
- Heat Resistance: Increased from 140°C to 265°C.
- Weight: Slightly heavier due to carbon content (1.39 vs 1.3 g/cm³), but far stronger and more stable.
Applications of CF PEEK
CF PEEK is pushing the boundaries across multiple industries:
Aerospace
Used for brackets, fasteners, and engine components that demand lightweight durability and thermal stability. Even satellite brackets benefit from its strength-to-weight ratio, enhancing payload efficiency.
Automotive
Deployed in Formula 1 brake cooling ducts, CF PEEK reduces weight and cost while improving thermal performance. Expect future integration in performance road vehicles.
Medical
Its radiolucency makes CF PEEK perfect for spinal cages and orthopedic implants. It also serves in sterilizable surgical tools and custom surgical guides.
Electronics & Semiconductors
Ideal for wafer handling, test sockets, and robotic arms where ESD safety and thermal precision are critical.
Industrial & Chemical
Used in high-load bearings, chemical-resistant valves, and pump components that maintain integrity in corrosive environments.
3D Printing with CF PEEK
Printing CF PEEK requires precise equipment and settings:
- Nozzle Temp: 390–450°C (use hardened steel, not brass)
- Bed Temp: 70–140°C
- Chamber Temp: >100°C
- Filament Drying: 4+ hours at 150°C
- Recommended Build Plate: Carbon fiber plate with nano-polymer adhesive
Because CF PEEK is hygroscopic, drying filament before printing is essential to prevent poor layer adhesion and bubbling. The carbon fiber fill also reduces warping and enhances printability over pure PEEK.
Strength & Fire Testing
In head-to-head performance testing, CF PEEK held up remarkably well against PLA and other materials:
Flame Test
CF PEEK self-extinguished in just 2.5 seconds after direct flame exposure and did not drip molten plastic like PLA, highlighting its flame resistance and structural integrity under extreme conditions.
Hand Break & Torsion Tests
Manual stress testing revealed that CF PEEK is so stiff that it physically hurts to snap. During torsional testing, it withstood up to 135 Newtons before a clean, predictable break—no delamination or layer failure visible.
UTM (Universal Testing Machine)
In XY orientation, CF PEEK achieved a peak load of 3880 Newtons. Even in the weaker Z orientation, it maintained solid performance at over 1600 Newtons—unheard of for most FDM-printed materials.
Final Thoughts
CF PEEK is a powerhouse material that delivers aerospace-grade performance with FDM-level accessibility. It’s stronger, stiffer, more heat-resistant, and more printable than standard PEEK—making it ideal for mission-critical applications across multiple sectors. For engineers and manufacturers needing the best of strength, thermal stability, and precision, CF PEEK is a game changer.
Need help choosing the right high-performance 3D printing material? Explore your options with confidence—CF PEEK, PSU, PPSF, ULTEM, and more. For expert recommendations and technical guidance, contact a specialist today.