Published on Sun May 17 2020 01:09:15 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

ColorFabb XT: A Deep Dive into High-Performance 3D Printing Filament

ColorFabb XT is a co-polyester filament known for its strength, temperature resistance, and printability. It bridges the gap between standard filaments like PLA and more demanding materials like ABS. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of ColorFabb XT, covering its specifications, usage tips, and a detailed evaluation of its performance characteristics.

ColorFabb XT: Detailed Specifications

• Material: Co-polyester (modified PETG)
• Diameter: Typically 1.75mm or 2.85mm (check specific spool)
• Density: 1.27 g/cm³
• Glass Transition Temperature (Tg): ~70°C
• Recommended Printing Temperature: 240-260°C
• Recommended Bed Temperature: 70-80°C
• Tensile Strength: ~52 MPa
• Elongation at Break: ~10%
• Available Colors: Varies depending on the retailer, but typically includes clear, black, white, and a range of other solid colors.
• Spool Size: Typically 750g or 2.2kg

Key Features and Benefits of ColorFabb XT

• High Strength and Durability: XT is significantly stronger than PLA and offers improved impact resistance.
• Temperature Resistance: A higher glass transition temperature makes it suitable for parts exposed to moderate heat.
• Excellent Printability: It generally prints with fewer warping issues than ABS.
• Low Odor: XT produces minimal odor during printing, making it suitable for enclosed spaces.
• Chemical Resistance: XT exhibits good resistance to various chemicals, making it suitable for functional parts.

Usage Tips for Optimal Printing Results

• Temperature Tuning: Dial in the ideal printing temperature for your specific printer and environment. Start within the recommended range and adjust in small increments (5°C) to optimize layer adhesion and surface finish.
• Bed Adhesion: A heated bed is crucial for successful XT printing. Clean the bed surface thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol before each print. Adhesion aids like glue stick or hairspray can further improve sticking.
• Print Speed: Reduce print speeds, especially for intricate parts, to improve accuracy and layer adhesion. A speed of 40-60mm/s is a good starting point.
• Cooling Fan: Use a moderate cooling fan (20-50%) to help with overhangs and bridging. Too much cooling can cause layer adhesion issues.
• Enclosure: While not strictly required, an enclosure can help maintain a consistent temperature and reduce warping, especially for larger prints.
• Storage: Store XT filament in a dry, airtight container with desiccant to prevent moisture absorption.

ColorFabb XT Filament Evaluation: A Detailed Breakdown (Out of 10)

Here’s a rating breakdown, judged purely on its performance as a filament:

• Print Quality: 8/10 - Capable of producing smooth, detailed prints with proper tuning.
• Toughness: 9/10 - Excellent impact resistance and strength compared to PLA.
• Flexibility: 4/10 - Relatively rigid, with limited flexibility compared to TPU or other flexible filaments.
• Warping: 7/10 - Less prone to warping than ABS, but still possible with large prints or inadequate bed adhesion.
• Adhesion: 8/10 - Good bed adhesion with a heated bed and proper surface preparation.
• Moisture Sensitivity: 6/10 - Moderately sensitive to moisture; proper storage is recommended.
• Color Range: 7/10 - Decent range of colors available, although not as extensive as PLA.
• Temperature Range: 8/10 - Offers a good range for printing, relatively forgiving.
• Odor & Fumes: 9/10 - Produces minimal odor during printing, considered low-VOC.
• Spool Winding Quality: 9/10 - Typically well-wound, reducing the risk of tangling.

Average Score: 7.5/10

Conclusion

ColorFabb XT is a solid choice for 3D printing projects that require strength, temperature resistance, and ease of use. Its lower odor and warping tendencies (compared to ABS) make it a versatile filament for both hobbyists and professionals. While it requires careful attention to printing parameters, the resulting prints are durable and dimensionally accurate, making it a valuable addition to any 3D printing material arsenal.

Written by Alex